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British author and adventurer Ranulph Fiennes said: “There is no bad weather, only inappropriate clothing.” In other words, you can go outside in practically any weather, just be sure to dress warm. Here are five spots in Central New York for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing or just walking through and appreciating winter and all her cold beauty. Bundle up.
Oneida Shores Park
9400 Bartell Road, Brewerton
315-676-7366
http://onondagacountyparks.com
The McKinley Ridge Trail features gorgeous views of Oneida Lake for snowshoeing or cross country skiing. A beginner’s trail through forest and clearing is about 3/4 mile long, with access from the parking lot at McKinley Shelter. Bring your own skis as no rentals are available. Dogs are allowed.
Beaver Lake
8477 E. Mud Lake Road, Baldwinsville
315-638-2519
http://onondagacountyparks.com
With nine miles of trails around a 200-acre glacial lake, you can wander wooded areas and clearings while gazing up through the treetops. There are three separate trails for snowshoeing and rentals are available. After your outing, warm up in the visitors lounge with hot chocolate or coffee. And be sure to stop by the lounge’s large window into the woods to watch the birds.
Camillus Erie Canal Park
5750 Devoe Road, Camillus
315-488-3409
This park features more than 10 miles of wooded paths and historic sites including the 1844 Nine Mile Creek Aqueduct. Go snowshoeing, cross country skiing or just walk. Bring your dog too.
Green Lakes State Park
7900 Green Lakes Road, Fayetteville
315-637-6111
Get out on the forest trails featuring two glacial lakes and an 18-hole Robert Trent Jones Golf Course that becomes a winter wonderland for snowshoers. There are also 15 miles of ungroomed trails for cross-country skiers. Dogs allowed.
Highland Forest
1254 Highland Park Rd., Fabius
315-683-5550
http://onondagacountyparks.com
High on a hilltop, with more than 40 miles of cross-country ski trails and a 500-foot slope for sledding and snowboarding, Highland offers a variety of activities, including horse-drawn sleigh rides on weekends (weather permitting).
Sunnycrest Park
Sunnycrest Road, Syracuse
315-473-4330
Snowshoe country style, right in the city. If the weather’s too frightful, head indoors for ice skating instead.
Adapted from a story that originally ran in Central New York Magazine.