Books by Debi Bower available on Amazon - shop now
sledding snow sports Black Creek

Snow Sports: 6 Ways to Stay Active in Winter

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.

ad

Snowshoeing Cumming Nature Center
Snowshoes at Cumming Nature Center

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.

Explore More

Rochester, delivered
A weekly Substack newsletter, with periodic essays exploring behind-the-scenes work and reflections on traveling close to home. While the content is free, paid subscriptions support my ongoing research and writing.

Mendon Ponds Park Monroe County XC Skiing snow sports
Cross-Country Skiing at Mendon

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.

Explore More

rochester coffee and chocolate festival 2026
Winter Sledding Rochester NY
Sledding

Sledding

Several excellent sledding hills are in and outside Monroe County parks. Let us help you find the best ones.

Explore More

shop books on amazon

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 at MLK Park

Ice Skating

There are several options for ice skating rinks in and around Rochester, some of which offer skate rentals, even outdoor rinks.

Explore More

Taughannock Falls winter hiking gorge trail
Taughannock Falls
Turning Point Park walking winter
Turning Point
ice volcano
Letchworth
Cumming Nature Center
Cumming Nature Center
Mendon Ponds Park birdsong trail
Mendon Ponds
Seneca Park Zoo winter walking
Seneca Park Zoo

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

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.

Debi Bower, Day Trips Around Rochester NY

Debi Bower is the founder and creative director of daytrippingroc.com and author of the award-winning book, Day Trips Around Rochester, New York.

decorative border


People often ask if I get free access to the places I visit. The answer is no—unless I’m invited to a special preview or offered behind-the-scenes access through my media role. Most of the time, I don’t even mention Day Trips Around Rochester, New York when I visit a place. I want to have the same experience you would.

I create and share this content because it brings me joy—and I hope it adds value to your adventures, too.

If my work has helped you explore and appreciate the Rochester area, please consider becoming a paid subscriber on Substack. You’ll receive an email whenever I publish new content and have the chance to connect with a growing community of local explorers.

Thank you for supporting my efforts to keep producing meaningful and helpful content.

Thank you!
Debi

decorative border

Enjoy the Journey Together!

Substack  Facebook Instagram YouTube

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *