While there are a lot of winter activities to enjoy in Cooperstown, snowshoeing is one of our favorites. It’s a great way to get outdoors and enjoy the wintery landscape, plus it’s a challenging workout and easy to pick up. Experience some of the winter magic and hit the trails with our guide to snowshoeing in Cooperstown.
Where to snowshoe in Cooperstown
Home to several state parks and designated state forest areas, Cooperstown offers plenty of space to explore the landscape of upstate New York, even in winter. Perfect for beginners and intermediates, below are a few great trails for snowshoeing in Cooperstown.
- Glimmerglass State Park – Glimmerglass State Park is home to several trails that are not only accessible during the summer but available for snowshoeing in the winter. For an easy to moderate trail to start with, the Sleeping Lion Trail is about 2.5 miles long, climbing gently through a forest of trees. Or check out the Hyde Covered Bridge Trail. The Hyde Hall Covered Bridge is the only covered bridge still standing in Otsego County. The loop begins and ends at the bridge and offers a pleasantly flat route. There are other trails that connect to the main one, so you can make this as long or as short as you want. Plus, the covered bridge covered in snow makes for a great photo!
- Roseboom State Forest – Explore the 620 acres of the Roseboom State Forest. With its wide-open acreage and scenic landscape, snowshoeing here is rewarding. There are no marked trails but there are wide unmarked trails that are easily followed with snowshoes.
- Arnold Lake State Forest – Visit Arnold Lake State Forest, just 15 minutes outside of Cooperstown for a day of snowshoeing adventures. There is a main trail that is a 5.5-mile loop that does cross public roads but still offers scenic views of the lake and surrounding area. The trail has several short, steep sections but can be snowshoed by those with moderate abilities.
What do I need for snowshoeing?
One of the best parts about snowshoeing is that it doesn’t require much equipment. Really all you need is a pair of snowshoes and some poles. In terms of shoes, you will want to wear some sturdy hiking boots that are waterproof, not water-resistant. Dress warmly and wear layers. You may start out cold but as you start to move, you’ll most definitely work up a sweat!
Where to rent snowshoes
If you don’t happen to own a pair of snowshoes, easily rent some with Otsego Outdoors Ski Shop. In addition to rentals, they also sell winter apparel and other winter gear. Typically snowshoes and poles are rented as a package. The best poles to get are adjustable with snow baskets. And make sure your snowshoes are right for your weight and the type of terrain you are looking to explore.
Start and end your day at The Inn at Cooperstown
The best way to enjoy snowshoeing in Cooperstown is with a stay at The Inn at Cooperstown. Start your day of adventure off with our buffet breakfast, complete with coffee, tea, fruit, and baked goods. Then return at the end of the day and enjoy a glass of wine by the roaring fire in our common area or retreat back to your luxurious room.
Or top off your snowshoeing adventures and book our Bed & Brew Package. Enjoy a day of outdoor adventures and then take part in a beer and food pairing event hosted by Brewery Ommegang. Because don’t you deserve it? Book by calling 607-547-5756.