Are you an avid winter activity participant or someone who’s starting to get cabin fever while waiting for spring? Either way, we’d recommend strapping on some snowshoes and doing a little exploring before the frozen season comes to an end! Not sure where to go? Keep reading for our favorite places to snowshoe near the Capital Region.
If You Need Rentals
Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center
Location: Voorheesville, NY (30 minutes west of Albany)
Cost: As of February 2021, rentals are available at the Nature Center and cost $10 for the whole day or $5 for four hours or less.
Thacher Park is well-known for its panoramic views and trails for all levels of experience. One option is the Schoolhouse Trail which does, in fact, lead to a historic one-room schoolhouse. Other routes include the Meadow Loop Trail and the Salisbury Trail. There’s plenty of room for your winter adventure!
Saratoga Spa State Park
Location: Saratoga, NY (30 minutes north of Albany)
Cost: As of February 2021, rentals are available at the park office and cost $10 for the whole day or $5 for four hours or less.
The Saratoga Spa State Park is bursting with natural beauty. With about 12 miles of paths and open terrain to traverse, it’s the perfect place for a snowshoeing escapade.
Before going, be sure to verify that snowshoe rentals are open and available. You may need to make reservations ahead of time.
For Beginners and/or Families
Fiver Rivers Educational Center
Location: Delmar, NY (20 minutes southwest of Albany)
The Five Rivers Educational Center is the ideal setting for a family outing. Experience the wonder of winter on their eight short, easy trails. Plus, they often have educational activities and classes. Click here to learn more about everything Five Rivers offers.
Peebles Island State Park
Location: Cohoes, NY (20 minutes north of Albany)
Peebles Island offers beautiful waterfront views of where the Hudson and Mohawk Rivers meet. Strap on your snowshoes and explore of the miles of wooded paths covering gently rolling hills.
Huyck Preserve
Location: Rensselaerville, NY (35 minutes southwest of Albany)
Pack up the family and go on a snowshoeing adventure at the Hyuck Preserve! Take in the beauty of winter while following one of the many trails. The park is open from dawn to dusk year-round with free admission. View trail maps and more here.
Gorgeous Views
Christman Bird and Wildlife Sanctuary
Location: Duanesburg, NY (35 minutes northwest of Albany)
An underrated gem in the Capital Region, the Christman Sanctuary features two miles of trails. Don’t forget to stop to admire the Bozenkill Falls! With minimal elevation gain, this path is family-friendly.
Kaaterskill Falls
Location: Haines Falls, NY (1 hour south of Albany)
The Kaaterskill Falls is a popular hiking destination during warm weather, but it is equally as magnificent during the winter! This easy to moderately rated hike is three miles round-trip. View these stunning falls in their icy glory.
Before heading out and strapping on your snowshoes, make sure to check COVID restrictions and closures. Remember to check the weather forecast, dress appropriately and be prepared!
Amber Rolfe is a Marketing Associate at AAA Hudson Valley.
