Don’t let the snow on the trail stop you from hiking in the winter. Why not try snowshoeing to spend more time outdoors? There are some places around Rochester where you can rent snowshoes and get proper training. Many of these places are nature centers that offer excellent trails for both snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. If you want to try both, a few of them even provide cross-country ski rentals.
Places to Rent Snowshoes Around Rochester
Most places charge around $5 per rental of snowshoes. Some may be for the whole day and some by the hour—check before you go.
1. Hanson Nature Center in Tinker Nature Park Henrietta
2. Wild Wings Inc. Bird of Prey Facility and Nature Center Mendon Ponds Park
3. Helmer Nature Center’s Saturday Snowshoe Irondequoit
4. Cumming Nature Center Naples
5. Genesee Country Village Mumford
6. Montezuma Audubon Center Savannah
7. Genesee County Park & Forest Bethany
8. Bryncliff Resort Varysburg
9. Reinstein Woods & Nature Preserve Cheektowaga
10. Medved Running and Walking Outfitters
From their website, “Our rental fee is $20 per day and the first two days can be used toward the purchase of a pair of snowshoes (if made within 30 days of the rental return).” Sounds like a great idea if you are thinking about buying your own.
11. REI
According to their website, “Renting gear is the best of both worlds. You get the stuff you need without needing a new closet to keep it all in. Gear up for your next outdoor adventure with rentable gear from your local REI store, handpicked by our in-store experts. You can rent snowshoes, skis, snowboards, camping gear and more. And we can show you how to use it.”
Day Trips Around Rochester, New York
Already have your own snowshoes?
There are hundreds of places around Rochester to take them! A bit of inspiration from the NYS DEC: “Don’t let snow keep you off New York State’s thousands of trails this winter. Grab a pair of cross-country skis or snowshoes and enjoy your favorite trails all winter long.
“The solitude and all engulfing silence of the wilderness in winter await. Many trails are actually easier to traverse in winter as the rocks, roots, and mud are covered over with nothing but smooth, deep snow.
“You can go to areas otherwise not accessible in summer due to wet conditions and take short cuts across frozen lakes. You may be surprised that a day of exercise and exploring nature in winter could be so much fun!”
Explore More
Not all waterfalls are hidden in dark ravines. Many of the region’s most stunning waterfalls can be viewed from the road or a short walk.
18 Wonderful Winter Walks in Monroe County
These winter walks in Rochester and Monroe County will inspire you to time outside, breathing in cold, fresh air and soaking up a little sun.
Nature Centers and Preserves Around Rochester
The various nature centers, preserves, and management areas all work to protect and maintain natural spaces for the benefit of all.
Snow Sports: 6 Ways to Stay Active in Winter
Skiing, snowshoeing, sledding, skating, and tubing are fun winter activities that offer exposure to fresh air and sunlight.
49 New York State Parks Within a Two-Hour Drive of Rochester
Venture into one of these New York State Parks within a two-hour drive of Rochester and discover what makes them unique.
Monroe County parks are free and offer 12,000 acres of natural, zoological, horticultural, historical, and geological experiences.
80+ Hiking Trails Around Rochester
Less traveled than in our parks, these hiking trails around Rochester offer a secluded and rustic area to immerse yourself in nature.
Where is your favorite spot to rent snowshoes?
Your insights and experiences are valuable. Please share them in the comments.
People often ask me if I get free access to places while exploring. The answer is no unless I’m invited to previews or granted behind-the-scenes access as part of my media role. Generally, I don’t mention my project, Day Trips Around Rochester, NY, because I want the same experience you would have. I create and share content simply because it brings me joy. I would appreciate your support—a cup of coffee or two to help fuel future field trips—if you have found valuable information here that has helped you explore the Rochester area.
Some pictures in this post are from Pixabay.
Where can I try cross country skiing? I would like to rent and ski in one location.
We have an article specific to skiing! Let me know though if you don’t find what you’re looking for here and I can help find more info: https://daytrippingroc.com/skiing-around-rochester/