Snowshoeing opportunities await

The Adirondacks is seemingly in a New York State snow-belt; can't find snow, come here! As a region we thrive on snow, love snow, welcome snow - and we're not afraid to admit it. Snowshoeing is a very popular past-time and a great way to extend your hiking season to an all-year activity. Did you know a "raquette" is a snowshoe? That's right, we have a lake, village, and river named after one of the most popular Adirondack sports.

This winter, strap on some snowshoes and head to the Adirondacks to enjoy our mountains and forests like never before. Snowshoeing is one of the easiest winter sports to master, and works all different kinds of muscles, helping you stay in prime condition all-year round. Here, we have snowshoe trails to fit all user types, of all abilities, and fitness levels.

One trail, two trail, red trail, blue trail!

Just like Dr. Seuss said, what a lot of trails there are! Here are some good places to get started:

• For a gradual, mostly flat snowshoe hike, try Rock Lake, near Indian Lake
• Snowy Mountain is one of the most challenging in the area, but a wonderful experience
• Chimney Mountain is interesting for a ton of reasons, most notably the fascinating rock formations near the summit which give the mountain its name
• Fern Park, Cathedral Pines, and Long Lake Recreation Area all have nice, mellow snowshoe trails through quiet woods

Find the right snowshoe gear

We don't want you to go without the appropriate gear to do the job. If you need something like snowshoes, trekking poles, winter jacket, hat, gloves, hand warmers, and/or a good pair of warm boots – oh and don't forget your map and guide book, we have outdoor gear shops with all the stuff you need and rentals too. Our New York State Guides can also help you get started by offering snowshoe trips into the region based on all types of skill levels, from a half day to a multi-day outing.

Leave No Trace and Love Your ADK

The magic of the Adirondacks is the result of previous generations taking a long view and protecting the mountains, lakes, and rivers within the Blue Line. That tradition continues today as we support and encourage everyone to practice Leave No Trace ethics, which help protect the lands and waters of the Adirondacks.

Leave No Trace 7 Principles

In winter, it is especially important to come prepared and practice ways to Love Your ADK; the best way to avoid emergencies is to properly plan and prepare for your trip.