Let’s get physical...in Syracuse, New York. When winter comes to Central New York, it's more than likely to stay for a few (or more) months. Getting outside is a great way keep active, stay healthy and break up the winter months. Don’t know what winter activities Syracuse, NY has to offer? Or, are you looking to pick up a new snowy hobby? Check out this great list of winter activities to participate in, right here in Onondaga County.
Snow Shoeing
Snowshoeing has gained popularity with those individuals who want to be active in the winter but aren’t necessarily into skiing and snowboarding. So if you’re the active type looking to enjoy nature without slipping and sliding through ice and snow then strap on a pair of snowshoes and get moving.
If you don’t own your own snowshoes, there’s still places to rent and have some fun.
Beaver Lake Nature Center in Baldwinsville offers rentals for $5 per hour, weather permitting. Rentals are available from 9:00 am-3:00pm, snowshoes must be returned by 4 pm. Enjoy 3 separate trails, the Northern Exposure, the Southern Exposure, and the Pine Meadow Trail. While the Southern has more hilly spots, the Northern offers a flatter trail and both go through open fields and wooded areas.
Highland Forest County Park in Fabius New York is another trail where you can rent snowshoes for $5, weather permitting. Rentals are available from 9am-3:00pm, snowshoes must be returned by 4 pm. With a couple of trail options you’ll be able to explore a multitude of terrain and make a day of it.
Cross-Country Skiing
If you’re not interested in skiing downhill there’s options for you to still get outside and participate in XCskiing in Onondaga County. The places mentioned above are also great for this long-distance sport. Beaver Lake Nature Center and Highland Forest both offer catered XC-ski trails during the snowy months. Grab your skis and your poles and get out there.
Although rentals are not available at Onondaga Lake Parkway, XCSkiing is welcome and is a popular activity during months with snow coverage. The Shoreline Walking Trail, the Long Branch Park loop or on the West Shore Trail all accommodate XCSkiers.
Downhill skiing / Snowboarding / Tubing
Looking to move a little quicker downhill? Check out 4 Seasons Golf and Ski Center for a great time. Tickets for passes can be purchased online, and it’s not just for ski goers. 4 Seasons offers skiing, snowboarding, and tubing! Fun for the whole family.
Labrador Mountain and Song Mountain are two more fantastic ski and snowboard resorts to check out this winter in Onondaga County. Labrador Mountain offers nearly 20 miles of trails. Best of all, when you buy a pass for one of these mountains you’ll have access to both! Two mountains for the price of one. After a long day on the slopes, the Moguls Bar and Grill Restaurant will be waiting for you. It is located at the base of Song Mountain, in Tully, NY.
Tully Lake for Panfish and Pickerel, Skaneateles Lake for Lake Trout and Panfish, Jamesville Reservoir for Walleye and Panfish, and so many other places throughout Onondaga County.
Ice Skating
Enjoy the downtown area of Syracuse, NY and ice skate with friends and family in Clinton Square. Admission for adults is $5 and junior admission is $3 for those 12 years and younger.
The Sunnycrest Ice rink, an indoor rink, offers public skating both during the day and evening hours. Admission ranges from $3 to $5 depending on age.
Shove Park in Camillus, NY offers open skating to the public. Shove Park schedule and admission prices are listed on their website.
Horse Drawn Sleighs
Highland Forest County has a touch of everything during the winter months. Snow shoeing, cross-country skiing, beautiful views, and a concession stand. If you’re not into working hard for your winter views, we suggest you book a horse drawn sleigh ride through the forest instead! This activity is so fun for all ages, and accessibilities. Rides are 10 dollars per person, 5 dollars for ages 5 years and younger and run about 25 minutes long.
If you want to enjoy the brisk air, the winter views, and some fun activities with friends, family and loved ones, then make Syracuse, NY your next winter getaway. Extend your trip, and book a hotel throughout Onondaga County.
