Located in the Adirondack Mountains of northern New York State, Wilmington lies at the foot of majestic Whiteface Mountain on the West Branch of the AuSable River. Wilmington and the Whiteface Region share many of the area's activities and attractions. Once a thriving industrial and agricultural community, the area began transitioning into a popular tourist destination in the late 1800s. Early hotels, such as the Whiteface Mountain House and Hotel Olney, established recreational opportunities for developing tourism. Whiteface Mountain, Whiteface Mountain Ski Center, Whiteface Mountain Veterans Memorial Highway, Santa's Workshop, High Falls Gorge, and the West Branch of the AuSable River were all destinations for those seeking outdoor adventure. In 1980, Wilmington hosted the Winter Olympic alpine events. Today, it continues to host national and world-class ski competitions.