Category: Outdoor / Adventure / Fitness

A Guide to Bike Trails in Cooperstown

Posted on | by Cass Tooke

group of bicyclists riding on cooperstown road

There is a vast amount of nature to explore while visiting Cooperstown. The rural roads are filled with scenic sights of hills, forests, and farmland. One of the best ways to take in all this serene countryside is to hop on your bike for a ride! The miles of bike trails in Cooperstown are nestled in the gorgeous state parks and right on the main rural roads. Strap on your helmet and get ready to peddle towards adventure! 

Clark Tower Trail

South of Ostego Lake is the Clark Tower Trail. This trail is a 3.6-mile loop perfect for mountain biking and immersing yourself in forestlands and historic sights in Cooperstown. Ride along the vibrant green nature and make sure to stop and admire the beautiful Clark Tower nestled in the wooded area.

Star Field Trail

Star Field Trail is a peaceful out-and-back route near Cooperstown that offers a mix of wooded scenery, open fields, and views of Otsego Lake. The trail is about 3.7 miles round trip and begins with a shaded forest section before opening into the wide, grassy area known as Star Field. Once you reach the field, you can follow the mowed paths for a little extra exploring or take in the views of Otsego Lake and the surrounding hills.

This route is best for riders who are comfortable on natural surfaces rather than paved paths. The terrain is generally manageable, but it is still better suited for mountain bikes or hybrid bikes than beach cruisers or narrow-tire road bikes.

Glimmerglass State Park

Located about eight miles outside the village of Cooperstown, Glimmerglass State Park overlooks Otsego Lake and offers a beautiful setting for outdoor recreation. The park is home to wooded trails, lake views, a swimming beach, campground, Hyde Hall Mansion, a covered bridge, and the Beaver Pond Nature Trail, making it a great place to spend more than just a quick ride.

For cyclists, the park’s Sleeping Lion Trail is the main route to know. It is a short but more challenging option, with forested terrain, elevation gain, and natural trail conditions. Otsego Outdoors lists Sleeping Lion as moderate for hiking and difficult for mountain biking, with more than two miles of trail and possible elevation gain of about 435 feet. Because of the climbs and uneven surfaces, this trail is best for mountain bikers or experienced riders looking for a more active Cooperstown adventure.

Route 80 to Ostego Lake

For a ride that will guarantee sights of all that Cooperstown has to offer, start your ride at The Inn at Cooperstown and head north to Route 80. You’ll be on the west side of Ostego Lake and pass by everything from Fenimore Art Museum, the Farmers’ Museum, and the Glimmerglass Festival Opera House.

Bike Rentals and Storage at The Inn at Cooperstown

Staying at The Inn at Cooperstown makes it easy to enjoy the area on two wheels. Guests can take advantage of complimentary bikes and helmets, available on a first-come, first-served basis, for casual rides through the village or nearby scenic areas. The Inn also offers bike storage for guests who bring their own bicycles, which is especially helpful for travelers planning to explore Cooperstown’s road routes, mountain biking trails, or countryside rides

Stay at The Inn at Cooperstown

Our historic bed and breakfast is located in the heart of town, only 1 ½ blocks from the Baseball Hall of Fame and minutes away from downtown and Otsego Lake.

Outside, our front porch is the idyllic place to enjoy a glass of wine or beer while you relax on one of our rocking chairs. Inside, retreat to your well-appointed room for the night and enjoy the luxurious amenities and comfortable surroundings that await you.

We look forward to having you here at The Inn at Cooperstown! Book now for your next getaway.

Where to Have the Best Cooperstown Lake Day

Posted on | by Cass Tooke

Think Cooperstown is just about baseball? Think again. This charming upstate New York town is also home to some of the most peaceful—and wildly photogenic—lakes in the region. Whether you’re into kayaking, swimming, fishing, or just soaking up the views, a Cooperstown lake day is exactly what you need to unwind and reconnect with nature.

Otsego Lake

Start your lake-hopping adventure at Otsego Lake, often called “Glimmerglass” for the way it reflects the sky like glass. Stretching over 9 miles long, it’s the star of Cooperstown’s waterfront scene. You can swim at Three Mile Point or Fairy Spring Park, rent a kayak or paddleboard from Brookwood Point, or even set sail on the Glimmerglass Queen for a relaxing lake cruise.

Don’t forget to pack a picnic—Lakefront Park near downtown is perfect for lakeside lounging with picture-perfect views of the hills and water. It’s also an ideal spot for fishing or watching the sunset after a day of fun.

Canadarago Lake

Just 20 minutes from Cooperstown, Canadarago Lake is a local favorite—and a bit more under-the-radar. It’s perfect if you’re looking to escape the crowds. Bring your own boat or launch from Baker’s Beach, a laid-back public beach that’s great for kids. Anglers love this lake for its bass, pike, and walleye.

Goodyear Lake

Looking for a quiet paddle? Goodyear Lake, just south of town, is your go-to. This dammed section of the Susquehanna River offers glassy water and wooded coves, ideal for kayaks and canoes. You’ll find peaceful, undeveloped shorelines and plenty of birdlife. Launch at the NYS Boat Launch off Route 28 and explore until your heart’s content.

Stay at The Inn at Cooperstown

Our historic bed and breakfast is located in the heart of Cooperstown, only 1 ½ blocks from the Baseball Hall of Fame and minutes away from downtown and Otsego Lake.

Outside, our front porch is the idyllic place to enjoy a glass of delicious wine or beer while you relax on one of our rocking chairs. Inside, retreat to your well-appointed room for the night and enjoy the luxurious amenities and comfortable surroundings that await you.

We look forward to having you here at The Inn at Cooperstown! Book now for your next getaway.

Paddle Through History: The Best Cooperstown Kayaking Spots

Posted on | by Cass Tooke

Cooperstown may be best known as the home of baseball, but it’s also a fantastic destination for outdoor adventure—especially on the water. If you’re looking to explore stunning scenery while gliding through calm, historic waters, Cooperstown kayaking is the perfect activity. Otsego Lake, often called “Glimmerglass” thanks to author James Fenimore Cooper, offers paddlers a chance to soak up natural beauty and local lore with every stroke.

Start at Glimmerglass State Park

Begin your kayaking adventure at the northern tip of Otsego Lake by launching from Glimmerglass State Park. The peaceful, clear waters here are ideal for all skill levels, surrounded by rolling hills and forested landscapes that change with the seasons.

Paddle Past Historic Hyde Hall

One of the most fascinating sights from the water is Hyde Hall, a 19th-century mansion perched above the shoreline. This neoclassical estate, listed as a National Historic Landmark, adds a touch of grandeur to your journey and a glimpse into early American life.

Visit Council Rock and Embrace Local Lore

At the lake’s southern end, make time to paddle past Council Rock, a historic gathering site for Native American tribes. This notable landmark adds depth to your kayaking trip and connects you to the region’s rich cultural heritage.

Scenic Stops for Picnics and Wildlife Viewing

Otsego Lake offers hidden coves and quiet shoreline spots perfect for taking a break. Whether you’re enjoying a picnic, birdwatching, or simply relaxing in nature, these peaceful areas make your Cooperstown kayaking experience even more rewarding.

Where to Rent Kayaks in Cooperstown

Don’t have your own kayak? Canoe & Kayak Rentals and Sales, just a short drive from town, has you covered. Located at 2314 State Route 28 in Portlandville, they offer affordable rentals with all the gear you need for a safe and enjoyable day on the water.

Stay at The Inn at Cooperstown

Our historic bed and breakfast is located in the heart of Cooperstown, only 1 ½ blocks from the Baseball Hall of Fame and minutes away from downtown and Otsego Lake.

Outside, our front porch is the idyllic place to enjoy a glass of delicious wine or beer while you relax on one of our rocking chairs. Inside, retreat to your well-appointed room for the night and enjoy the luxurious amenities and comfortable surroundings that await you.

We look forward to having you here at The Inn at Cooperstown! Book now for your next getaway.

The Ultimate Ways for Sightseeing in Cooperstown

Posted on | by Cass Tooke

Otsego Lake, Cooperstown isn’t just a baseball town—it’s a place where history, culture, and natural beauty create an unforgettable escape. Whether you’re here for the Hall of Fame, a lakeside retreat, or just the kind of charm you don’t find in big cities, here’s how to make the most of sightseeing in Cooperstown.

Ride Through History on a Guided Tour

Want the inside scoop on Cooperstown’s past? The Cooperstown Trolley is the perfect way to explore the town’s historic streets. You’ll roll past icons like the National Baseball Hall of Fame, Fenimore Art Museum, and The Farmers’ Museum. For something a little spookier, the Cooperstown Candlelight Ghost Tour shares eerie legends about the spirits that supposedly still linger in this charming town.

Pedal Through Picture-Perfect Scenery

There’s something special about biking through Cooperstown. The Glimmerglass State Park Trails offer stunning lake views, peaceful wooded paths, and the kind of fresh air that makes you want to slow down and take it all in. If you prefer a more relaxed ride, pedal past historic homes, rolling farmland, and scenic lakefront spots—perfect for a leisurely afternoon with a few coffee stops along the way.

See Cooperstown from the Water

Take a scenic cruise on the Glimmerglass Queen, where you’ll float past lush landscapes and historic estates. Want a little adventure? Rent a kayak or paddleboard and set out on your own, gliding through calm waters with the occasional eagle soaring overhead.

Stroll Main Street Like a Local

There’s a reason Cooperstown’s Main Street feels like a movie set—it’s packed with character, history, and some of the best small-town shopping around. Browse indie bookstores, pop into artisan shops for handcrafted goods, or grab a pint at a local brewery. Baseball fan? Stand on the hallowed ground of Doubleday Field. Sweet tooth? Don’t leave without a scoop from Schneider’s Bakery—locals swear by it.

Step Into the Elegance of Hyde Hall

For a peek into Cooperstown’s aristocratic past, visit Hyde Hall, an awe-inspiring 19th-century mansion perched above Otsego Lake. The guided tours here don’t just showcase grand architecture—they bring to life the stories of the Clarke family, who lived in this Gilded Age estate. Between the sweeping lake views and the fascinating history, it’s an experience that feels like stepping back in time.

Stay at The Inn at Cooperstown

Our historic bed and breakfast is located in the heart of Cooperstown, only 1 ½ blocks from the Baseball Hall of Fame and minutes away from downtown and Otsego Lake.

Outside, our front porch is the idyllic place to enjoy a glass of delicious wine or beer while you relax on one of our rocking chairs. Inside, retreat to your well-appointed room for the night and enjoy the luxurious amenities and comfortable surroundings that await you.

We look forward to having you here at The Inn at Cooperstown! Book now for your next getaway.

How to See the Kingfisher Tower in Cooperstown

Posted on | by Cass Tooke

There are so many unique things to see in Cooperstown, NY. One of which is the Kingfisher Tower. The mini-castle towers over the eastern shore of Otsego Lake and is one of the town’s most notable landmarks. Discover how you can see the Kingfisher Tower in Cooperstown with our guide below.

About the Kingfisher Tower

The Kingfisher Tower in Cooperstown is a 60-foot-tall mini castle built in 1876 by a man named Edward Clark. It was part of the Gothic Revival movement and was built to beautify Otsego Lake. Clark was the founder of the Singer Sewing Machine Company and used his fortune to build this mini-castle to help provide jobs during an economic downturn in addition to enhancing the landscape.

The structure is made of stone and in the beginning, came with a draw bridge and portcullis. Though this feature does not remain today, the tower still stands and is one of the more notable landmarks in Glimmerglass State Park. Its small base measures only 20 square feet, with a towering pyramid-shaped roof, plus windows adorned with stained glass and a armorial shield at its core. Because of its unique features, it’s one of the most photographed landmarks in Cooperstown.

Getting to the castle

The tower is located at Point Judith, on the east side of Otsego Lake. It can only be reached by boat, as it is tucked away in the forest with a perimeter fence. It technically is located on private property of the descendants of the Singer Sewing Machine Company and Edward Clark. While you cannot access the inside of the castle, you can view it up close by way of boat or by land at Lakefront Park (located at the southernmost tip of the lake).

Hop aboard The Glimmerglass Queen’s (seasonal) boat tours. Take a tour of Otsego Lake and see Kingfisher Tower from the water. Enjoy a one-hour narrated trip around the lake while sipping on your favorite beverage from the bar. Tickets go on sale for each cruise 15 minutes prior to departure, so reservations are not necessary for normal tour times.

Lakefront Park is located on the southern shores of Otsego Lake and just a few minutes from The Inn at Cooperstown. Enjoy a relaxing stroll amongst lush greenery while taking in beautiful scenes of the lake and tower. It’s the perfect spot to easily enjoy some peace and quiet.

Stay at The Inn at Cooperstown

One of the best ways to see the Kingfisher Tower is by staying at The Inn at Cooperstown. We are located within a short walking distance to both Lakefront Park and The Glimmerglass Queen’s boat tours. Easily spend the day exploring the Glimmerglass Historic District, all within walking distance of your hotel room.

Our historic and luxurious hotel provides guests with exceptionally appointed rooms, plush yet comfortable surroundings, complimentary breakfast, and friendly staff who is ready to make your weekend memorable. Book your stay today!

Your Guide to Snowshoeing in Cooperstown

Posted on | by Cass Tooke

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.

Get Outdoors with These Hiking Trails in Cooperstown

Posted on | by Cass Tooke

One of the best ways to experience Cooperstown is with its many outdoor activities, such as hiking. So, get outdoors with these hiking trails in Cooperstown and discover the beauty of upstate New York!

Clark Tower Trail

A favorite trail to experience is the Clark Tower Trail. The 3.5-mile trail offers minimal elevation gain, making this an easy hike the entire family can enjoy. Note there is no true parking at the trailhead, so hikers must park along the road.

Star Field

Star Field is an out and back 3.7-mile hike through a forest with views of Otsego Lake. If you want to add on to the hike, walk the perimeter of the field before returning to the main trail. The field was actually a working farm in the mid-1800s and now is the perfect place to reconnect with nature and find a bit of peace and quiet.

Brookwood Point at Otsego Lake

Visit the 100-year-old garden at Otsego Lake where you can discover a diversified ecosystem including meadows and fields, woodlands, wetlands, flowing creeks, and beautiful gardens. The 22-acre property features easy walking trails including the garden paths, the wetland trail, which begins at the stone wall near the picnic table.

Compton Bridge Conservation Area

Marking the beginning of the 444-mile Susquehanna River and the end of the Blueway Trail, the Compton Bridge Conservation Area is a great place for a short hike and canoeing or paddling.

Glimmerglass State Park

Located just eight miles outside of the Village of Cooperstown, Glimmerglass State Park is the area’s premier park to visit. Overlooking Otsego Lake this park is home to a variety of wildlife and fun activities such as hiking, swimming, and a large beach and picnic area. This 593-acre park boasts rolling terrain that consists of several hiking trails for the outdoor enthusiast.

The Sleeping Lion Trail is a great trail to start with. At 2.4 miles round-trip, the loop features views of Otsego Lake, forested terrain, and a pleasant slope that make this challenging but not too hard.

Stay at The Inn at Cooperstown

inn at cooperstown

After your day of exploring these hiking trails in Cooperstown, complete your weekend with a stay at The Inn at Cooperstown. Our award-winning Cooperstown, NY hotel offers unique historic charm, friendly hospitality, and an idyllic location in walking distance to downtown, the Baseball Hall of Fame, and more from our central Cooperstown location. Browse our accommodations and discover the best of Cooperstown with a stay at the Inn at Cooperstown!

5 Ways to get Outdoors and Enjoy the Summer in Cooperstown

Posted on | by Cass Tooke

Summer is finally here and it’s the perfect time to get outdoors and explore the beauty of Cooperstown. From hiking and biking to swimming and kayaking, there is plenty to keep you active! Discover these five ways to get outdoors and enjoy the summer in Cooperstown.

Spend the day at Otsego Lake

image of otsego lake
The blue waters of Otsego Lake in Cooperstown.

Glimmerglass State Park rests just eight miles outside of Cooperstown, overlooking Otsego Lake. There are trails available for day hiking, sandy beaches for a relaxing afternoon, and beautiful views all around you. A favorite spot to visit is Brookwood Point on Otsego Lake. This 100-year-old garden offers a place for hiking, paddling, and beautiful scenery.

Another fun way to explore Otsego Lake is with the Glimmerglass Queen Boat Tour. Enjoy a one-hour narrated tour around Otsego Lake while sipping on your favorite beverage from the bar. Tickets go on sale for each cruise 15 minutes prior to departure, so reservations are not necessary for normal tour times.

Get out on the water

Cool off this summer and get out on the water with activities such as kayaking, canoeing, or paddleboarding. Need a kayak or a canoe? Visit one of Cooperstown’s local outfitters at Canoe and Kayak Rentals, offering three locations, one of which is just two miles from The Inn at Cooperstown at Brookwood Point. Or visit them at Glimmerglass State Park for rentals.

Hiking

Or stick to dry land and hit the trails with a hike in Cooperstown. Hike through forests, historic sites, over rolling hills, and around picture-perfect lakes. A favorite trail to experience is the Clark Tower Trail. The 3.5-mile trail offers minimal elevation gain, making this an easy hike the entire family can enjoy. But you can find your favorite with 26 different trails in Otsego County to choose from.

Play golf

Professional golfer putting ball into the hole. Golf ball by the edge of hole with player in background on a sunny day.

Play a round or two of golf at one of several golf courses in and near Cooperstown. Our golf courses offer exceptional links, green grounds, and stunning vista views. Both Leatherstocking and Otsego golf courses are open to the public. Find the course that’s right for you and start planning your round of golf.

Biking

Biking in Cooperstown is a popular summer activity. From road biking to mountain biking, there is a path for everyone! Mountain bikers will love the rolling hills and road cyclists will enjoy the winding country roads. A popular ride right here in Cooperstown is the Otsego Lake ride. The moderate 22-mile route is a scenic loop around Otsego Lake where you pass by many of the area’s notable landmarks such as the Fenimore Art Museum and the Glimmerglass Festival.

image of biking cooperstown

Stay at The Inn at Cooperstown

image of Inn at cooperstown
The Inn at Cooperstown.

Enjoy the best of summer in Cooperstown when you stay at The Inn at Cooperstown. Our historic bed and breakfast is located in the heart of town and is minutes away from downtown and Otsego Lake.

The front porch is the idyllic place to enjoy a glass of wine or beer while you relax on one of our rocking chairs, enjoying those warm summer evenings. Retreat to your well-appointed room for the night and enjoy the luxurious amenities and comfortable surroundings that await you.

We look forward to having you here at The Inn at Cooperstown!

Fall Drives in Cooperstown Upstate NY

Posted on | by Cass Tooke

Legendary for its fall colors, Cooperstown and Upstate New York make the perfect place for an autumn drive. Depending on where you are traveling from or if you just want to take a one-day road trip adventure during your stay at The Inn at Cooperstown, there are plenty of scenic drives that provide beautiful views and an endless supply of fall foliage. So, buckle up and discover these fall drives in Cooperstown Upstate NY.

Route 20

As America’s longest federal highway, Route 20 stretches from the NY-Massachusetts border to the town of Ripley, NY. Enjoy historic charm, a stop at the state’s capital, and of course, our very own Glimmer Glass State Park in Cooperstown, NY. Home to the beautiful Otsego Lake, Glimmer Glass State Park lights up in autumn with an abundance of colorful foliage.

Upper Delaware Scenic Byway

Following the Delaware River between the borders of NY and Delaware, the 70-mile Upper Delaware Scenic Byway (NYS Route 97) offers dramatic river vistas, famous trout streams, and unique Catskill hamlets with plentiful art galleries and antique shops. Attractions along the way include the French Woods State Forest Preserve, the Crystal Lake State Reservation, and the Elks Brox Memorial Park. In mid-October, experience color-soaked roadsides and fall foliage lining the riverbanks.

Mohawk Towpath National Scenic Byway

Following the Mohawk River, the Mohawk Towpath National Scenic Byway runs between Schenectady and Waterford telling the story of the Erie Canal. Highlights along this route include stopping off at the villages and neighborhoods that dot the way including, the town Colonie, Glenville, Halfmoon, and Waterford.

High Peaks Scenic Byway

image of Adirondack park

The High Peaks Scenic Byway is a 30-mile road along Route 73 within the Adirondack Park that leads to the Olympic Village of Lake Placid. Climb through narrowing passes surrounded by towering mountains, flowing streams, waterfalls, and beautiful lakes. Encompassing 85% of all the wilderness in the Eastern U.S., the Adirondacks provide endless mountain views, river valleys, verdant forests, and plenty of chances to see fall foliage.

Great Lake Seaway Trail

While you may not plan to do the entire 500-mile drive, plan to drive sections of the Great Lake Seaway Trail is one of the best fall drives in Cooperstown Upstate NY. The long route connects major landmarks of the St. Lawrence River, the Great Lake, and Niagara Falls. See over 25 lighthouses, enjoy wine tastings and seemingly endless fall colors.

Where to stay in Cooperstown

image of inn at cooperstown

Whether you are passing through or have made Cooperstown your home base, complete your fall road trip with a stay at The Inn at Cooperstown. When you stay at our luxurious bed and breakfast, you’re always treated as our number one priority with world-class service and top-notch amenities. Enjoy elegant, yet casual furnishings with exceptional amenities in each of our rooms and suites. Plus, an excellent in-town location near historic Main Street, the Baseball Hall of Fame, and more!

Cooperstown vacation package

Book your fall getaway and enjoy the colors as well as the ghostly magic of Cooperstown with our Fright and Delight vacation package. Includes a 2-night stay, admission for two to Hyde and Shriek, Things go Bump in the Night, and Cooperstown Candlelight Ghost Tour, plus much more. Call 607-547-5756 to book.

Start planning your fall getaway today and book your stay with The Inn at Cooperstown!