Winter is a magical time of year, but it isn’t always a dream come true. For some winter recreational activities, we have to wait for the perfect conditions. Ice fishing requires us to wait for the right ice thickness. Downhill skiing and snowmobiling are so much more enjoyable with groomed trails. But snowshoeing? All we need is some snow! That’s why snowshoeing is a great winter activity. In Saranac Lake, there are abundant opportunities to strap on some snowshoes and hit the snowy trails.

Here are a few reasons why you should try snowshoeing this winter…

Groomed centers offer rentals and great trails

Dewey Mountain Recreation Center and the Paul Smith’s College Visitor Interpretive Center (VIC) are two wonderful places to get your ‘shoe on. Both locations have groomed trails and marked trail signage, which make for a perfect place to try something new if you’ve never snowshoed before. Even if you are a seasoned pro, you’ll enjoy these trails. A variety of terrain takes snowshoers through different scenery and habitats; there’s something new around every corner! The best part of it all is if you’re totally new to the sport, there are rentals available at both locations, so you can test out your snowshoe legs before making the commitment to buy your own new equipment.

You can experience nature in a new way

Have you ever been in the woods and taken a moment to enjoy the silence or take mental note of what’s going on around you? If you’re ready to take your time outdoors to the next level, you should check out Adirondack Riverwalking & Forest Bathing, a guided service that helps you connect more deeply with yourself, others, and nature. This winter, Adirondack Riverwalking & Forest Bathing is offering an experience called “Sensory Snowshoeing” Immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, scents, and textures of the forest to relax and practice mindfulness.

Of course, you can do this by yourself, but the guides from Adirondack Riverwalking & Forest Bathing are there to help you open the door to a new way of being in nature. Just like at Dewey and the VIC, these trips provide participants with rental snowshoes.

It’s a great family activity

Looking for something for the whole family to do? Try snowshoeing! Snowshoeing is a gentle winter activity; if you can walk, you can snowshoe! You don’t have to worry about your kids being the appropriate age and it almost feels like playing in the snow instead of exercise. Going for a hike sounds like a chore. Going to play in the snow on snowshoes sounds fun!

And for the adults, snowshoeing is a mellow activity, but still gets you out moving around, so you can enjoy an adult beverage in the evening as a reward.

There are so many options, you can “make your own adventure” easily

The groomed trails around Saranac Lake are amazing, but so are the many ungroomed trails in the surrounding area. Looking for a challenge and a mountain to climb? Try snowshoeing to the summit of St. Regis! Want to try combining snowshoeing with another activity, like birding? Head to the Bloomingdale Bog. Searching for a gentle hike to a peaceful pond? Moose Pond is a real gem. Or are you searching for a quiet place to just stretch your legs? Don’t overlook The Pines, then!

There are mountains to climb, ponds to trek to, vistas to take in, and many, many adventures to be had. If you need help choosing an adventure, talk to a local guide to find the best option for your ability.

Leave No Trace And Love Your ADK Pledge

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.

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.

Gear up for a great winter

With cozy hotel rooms and delicious options for a post-snowshoe meal, there’s no reason not to head to Saranac Lake to try something different this winter. Make the right decision, snowshoe your way to winter bliss.