Winter sports such as skiing, snowshoeing, sledding, skating, and snow tubing can be great fun and aid in shaking off the winter blues. Although walking is not typically considered a sport, it can present a unique challenge in winter as it requires a high level of skill in balance, flexibility, and resiliency, much like skiing and snowshoeing. Staying healthy in winter requires fresh air, exercise, and sunshine. Engage in winter sports to make the most of shorter days.
Snowshoeing
If you’re interested in spending more time outdoors during winter, you might want to try snowshoeing. There are several places in Rochester where you can rent snowshoes and learn how to use them.
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11 Best Places to Rent Snowshoes Around Rochester
If you’re looking to spend time outdoors, give snowshoeing a try. There are places around Rochester to rent and learn how to use them.
Skiing
Winter is a great time in Rochester for skiing, whether you’re looking for a fun social experience, some friendly competition, or to continue a long-standing tradition. Some of the ski locations around Rochester also provide cross-country ski rentals for those who need them. If you have your own cross-country skis, we have some recommendations for places to explore.
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The 16 Best Places for Downhill and Cross-Country Skiing Around Rochester
Skiing is a popular winter activity that provides both physical and social benefits and helps maintain vitamin D levels with sun exposure.
Sledding
Several excellent sledding hills are in and outside Monroe County parks. Let us help you find the best ones.
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The Best Sledding Hills Around Rochester
Are you ready to play in the snow? Take your sled to one of Monroe County’s thrilling sledding hills, like Mendon Ponds and Black Creek.
Snow Tubing
It’s basically sledding without having to walk to the top of the hill!
Greystone Tubing Walworth
Holiday Valley Ellicottville
Greek Peak Cortland
Ice Skating
There are several options for ice skating rinks in and around Rochester, some of which offer skate rentals, even outdoor rinks.
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Ice Skating Rinks Around Rochester
All indoor ice skating rinks, plus a few outdoor rinks, offer skate rentals. For outdoor ice to set, we need 3–5 days of sub-32-degree temps.
Walking
There’s no need for 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.
Winter Walks
26 Easy Winter Walks Around Rochester
Each destination offers a unique perspective of the Rochester area’s natural beauty, from snow-covered parks to picturesque waterfronts.
Letchworth has something for everyone, from hiking one of the park’s 29 trails and picnicking beside a waterfall to taking a scenic drive.
“Hit the Trail Passport” for the Rochester Area
Pick up your “Hit the Trail Passport” booklet at Wegmans, or print your own! You’ll have everything you need to start your hiking adventure.
Taughannock Falls’s 0.75-mile hard-packed gravel gorge trail leads to the base of the falls and is open year-round.
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.
50 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.
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.
First-Day Hikes on January 1, 2025
Welcome the New Year with a guided First-Day Hike at several parks, including Brookdale Preserve, Letchworth, and Hamlin Beach.
To appreciate the beauty of a snowflake it is necessary to stand out in the cold.
Aristotle
What are your favorite snow sports?
I’d love to hear from you—please share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below.
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