Snowshoeing is a quintessential winter activity that allows outdoor enthusiasts to traverse landscapes covered in snow with relative ease. In New York, numerous neighborhoods and parks offer unique snowshoeing experiences. Here, we’ve compiled a list of ten notable snowshoeing locations throughout the state, complete with addresses, contact information, and websites, ensuring a comprehensive resource for both seasoned snowshoers and newcomers alike.
1. Central Park
Address: New York, NY 10024
Contact: (212) 310-6600
Website: www.centralparknyc.org
Central Park transforms into a winter wonderland, making it an ideal spot for snowshoeing. With approximately 843 acres of accessible trails, visitors can explore iconic landmarks such as Bethesda Terrace and the Mall while enjoying the tranquility of snow-covered landscapes.
2. Harriman State Park
Address: 17 Saddle River Rd, Ramapo, NY 10974
Contact: (845) 947-2444
Website: www.ny.gov
Harriman State Park, just north of New York City, features over 200 miles of trails waiting to be explored on snowshoes. The park offers a variety of terrains, from gentle slopes to more challenging ascents, ideal for adventurers seeking a rugged winter escape.
3. Prospect Park
Address: Brooklyn, NY 11215
Contact: (718) 965-8951
Website: www.prospectpark.org
Located in Brooklyn, Prospect Park provides a convenient urban setting for snowshoeing. The 585-acre park features serene meadows and wooded trails, offering an urban oasis during winter months. Rentals and organized group snowshoeing events are available through various community programs.
4. Mohonk Preserve
Address: 3197 State Route 44/55, Gardiner, NY 12525
Contact: (845) 255-0919
Website: www.mohonkpreserve.org
The Mohonk Preserve is renowned for its breathtaking vistas and extensive trails. With over 8,000 acres of protected land, snowshoers can enjoy the tranquility of the Shawangunk Ridge while traversing various winding trails that vary in difficulty.
5. Letchworth State Park
Address: 668 Letchworth Park Rd, Castile, NY 14427
Contact: (585) 493-3600
Website: www.ny.gov
Often dubbed the “Grand Canyon of the East,” Letchworth State Park’s stunning gorge provides an excellent backdrop for winter sports. Visitors can explore miles of snow-covered trails that showcase the park’s majestic waterfalls and breathtaking landscapes.
6. Adirondack Park
Address: 1133 NY-86, Ray Brook, NY 12977
Contact: (518) 891-3868
Website: www.adk.org
Home to more than six million acres of wilderness, the Adirondack Park is a snowshoer’s haven. The park’s extensive network of trails offers varying levels of difficulty, making it suitable for both beginners and advanced snowshoeing enthusiasts. Stunning views of frozen lakes and snow-draped peaks enhance the experience.
7. The Catskills
Address: Catskill Park, NY 12414
Contact: (845) 256-3000
Website: www.catskillcenter.org
The Catskill Mountains offer a unique snowshoeing experience amidst rugged terrain and secluded trails. With numerous designated snowshoeing paths, adventurers can connect with nature while enjoying the winter serenity that the Catskills are known for.
8. Whiteface Mountain
Address: 5021 State Route 86, Wilmington, NY 12997
Contact: (518) 946-2223
Website: www.whiteface.com
Whiteface Mountain, known for its ski slopes, also offers excellent snowshoeing excursions. The mountain hosts a variety of trails, allowing snowshoers to explore the beautiful forested areas and ridgelines while taking in spectacular views of Lake Placid and the surrounding Adirondacks.
9. The Thousand Islands
Address: 1000 Islands Park, Alexandria Bay, NY 13607
Contact: (315) 686-4104
Website: www.thousandislandspark.com
The Thousand Islands region offers a winter playground for snowshoeing enthusiasts. Visitors can navigate between the islands and explore the frozen waterways, providing a unique opportunity to experience winter in an area known for its natural beauty and diverse wildlife.
10. Kaaterskill Falls
Address: Kaaterskill Falls Trailhead, Haines Falls, NY 12436
Contact: (518) 589-5050
Website: www.nynjtc.org
Famed for its breathtaking waterfall, Kaaterskill Falls becomes a stunning winter landscape when transformed by frost and snow. Snowshoeing here allows visitors to witness the majestic falls in a different light while traversing scenic paths amidst the Catskill Mountains.
The above locations epitomize the diverse opportunities for snowshoeing throughout New York. Whether seeking the bustling trails of urban parks or the solitude of expansive wilderness areas, New Yorkers and visitors alike can embrace the beauty of winter landscapes while engaging in this enriching outdoor activity.
