Skiing, snowshoeing, sledding, skating, and snow tubing are great snow sports to help shake the winter doldrums. Exposure to fresh air, exercise, and sunshine are key to staying healthy through the colder months, both physically and mentally.
To appreciate the beauty of a snowflake it is necessary to stand out in the cold.
Aristotle
1. Snowshoeing
If you’re looking to spend more time outdoors, try snowshoeing! There are a few places around Rochester to rent snowshoes and learn how to use them.
2. Skiing
Skiing around Rochester is as much winter recreation as it is a social experience, competition, and a tradition. A few of these destinations also offer cross country ski rentals.
3. Sledding
Monroe County Parks have the best sledding hills around Rochester! The great thing about sledding is that there are no barriers to entry.
4. Snow Tubing
It’s basically sledding without having to walk to the top of the hill!
NEW Greystone Tubing Walworth. Grand opening is February 7. According to their Facebook page, “It’s official!!! Snow Tubing at Greystone is finally opening this weekend on February 7th, 8th, and 9th! Amazing winter fun for the whole family. 1000 foot tubing hill, kiddie hill lanes, lights, music, and a full service bar and restaurant all just minutes from Rochester! Online reservations and waiver signature are required.”
Holiday Valley Ellicottville. “The Holiday Valley Tubing Company is located on the corner of Rt. 242 and Bryant Hill Road, New York – just 4 miles from Holiday Valley on the north side of Ellicottville.”
Greek Peak Cortland. “Tubing at The Outdoor Adventure Center offers up to 18 winter tubing lanes, with snowmaking and lighting available for night operations.”
5. Skating
There are several options when looking for ice skating rinks around Rochester. It first depends on whether you own your own skates or need to rent. It also depends on your preference for indoor or outdoor rinks.
6. Walking
There’s no need for any extra equipment to simply get outside and take a walk, except maybe some crampons if the trail is icy. Wander around the neighborhood on a sunny day, or pick a trail to explore.
Here are a few suggestions for a winter stroll:
30 Winter Walks Around Rochester
These ideas for winter walks should motivate you to step outside for some fresh air and, with any luck, sunshine. So bundle up and get out there!
Taughannock Falls is one of the most accessible waterfalls in our park system. You can walk in the creek and play in the tiny cascades along the gorge.
Monroe County parks are free, so take advantage of 12,000 acres of natural, zoological, horticultural, historical and geological experiences!
51 Nature Centers, Preserves, Refuges, and Observatories Around Rochester
Our nature centers, wildlife preserves, management areas, etc., all serve to protect and sustain life, while making nature accessible to people to enjoy.
What are your favorite snow sports?
Share your thoughts with us in the comments. Your insight and experience is invaluable!