Get Out There!

Winter sports in the finger lakes

In the winter, the Finger Lakes are filled with picturesque snow-covered trails, hills, lakes, waterfalls, and mountains – all ready for you to explore! Voyagers can quietly traipse through snow-dusted parks on snowshoes to take in sparkling snowflakes and curious wildlife. Sledders will love zooming across rural and forested trails on snowmobiles, with Sugar Hill and Hammond Hill State Forests as some of the best in the region. You’ll find that trails are marked for your activity level, vehicle, and expertise, so read carefully and explore to your heart’s content! Several of our parks are also known for their waterfalls, rushing in the summer, and freezing still in the depths of winter. Take in these unique beauties.

Slopes for all

While our Adirondack neighbors to the north may be renown for their treacherous slopes, the Finger Lakes is the perfect ski destination for any skill-set: anyone from the beginner ski bunny to the seasoned expert...

...will enjoy their time on the powdery slopes of the Finger Lakes. With several large ski resorts like Bristol Mountain, Song Mountain, Greek Peak, and Labrador Mountain boasting well over a combined 100 trails, any skier or snowboarder will find their powdery paradise. Improve your skills with a private lesson, work on your tricks at a terrain park, or soar over freshly fallen (or man-made) snow under the stars. Stay at a ski resort equipped with fun for all, or take a day trip to a smaller mountain, like Hunt Hollow or Skaneateles Ski Hill. Prefer cross-country skiing? Nordic skiers will find miles of both groomed and ungroomed trails to glide over. The local favorite, Hammond Hill State Forest has 20 miles to explore, or head to Livingston County to tour the "Grand Canyon of the East," Letchworth State Park.

Sharpen your skates

From downtown setting on city streets to indoor community rinks, there are outdoor and indoor ice skating opportunities scattered throughout the Finger Lakes. More of a spectator? Check out a Division One hockey game at Cornell University, or cheer for professional teams like the Syracuse Crunch or Rochester Americans.

A frozen fishing paradise

We’re known for our pristine lakes – which means superb fishing year round. The Finger Lakes are regularly lauded as home to some of the most impressive fishing in the country. Some varieties in the area include trout, walleye, perch, and more. While our largest lakes can be several hundred feet deep, shallower lakes like Hemlock Lake, Honeoye Lake, and Keuka Lake are perfect for hours of ice fishing. Anglers, be sure your fishing license is updated, and pack your pole! Don’t have a license? It's easy for out-of-state visitors to get a 3-day visitors license. Or visit the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation to find “Free Fishing Days.”