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Treat Yourself to a 2020 Winter Getaway in Old Forge

posted by Teresa Farrell at 2020-01-07 20:10:00

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Winter in Upstate New York might seem like an attractive time to stay inside. But it’s also a time when many small towns come alive, with outdoor activities you can only find this time of year. One spot that knows exactly how to do this blustery season right is the Adirondack town of Old Forge.

Known for its summertime fun and fall foliage, Old Forge is also a particularly hot spot to visit in the winter. One big reason is simple: this is snowmobiling season. You’d have a hard time finding another town that takes this winter pastime this seriously; snowmobile enthusiasts flock to Old Forge throughout the season, traveling from all over the state and even around the country to hit the trails. It makes sense; the yearly snowfall totals in this town have been known to exceed 14 feet! But it’s not just the sheer amount of snow that have earned this town the unofficial designation of ‘snowmobiling capital of the East;’ it’s also the area’s 500 miles of snowmobiles trails, plus a dedicated team of trail groomers that go out twice a day during peak season to make sure they’re in prime condition. Many people bring their own, but there are also snowmobile rentals available in town for those who want to try it out without the investment.

Of course, blasting through the snow on a 150-horsepower sleigh may not be for everyone, and that’s alright! This is also peak season to spend a day on the slopes at McCauley Mountain Ski Area. Suited for everyone from beginners to pros, McCauley offers 21 groomed ski trails, ranging from a bunny hill to double black diamonds. The view from the chairlift is so impressive, they keep it running throughout the summer and fall for sightseeing purposes. And of course, rentals and lessons are available for those who are just starting out.

But maybe even downhill skiing is a little more speed than you feel the need for. Maybe you just want to spend some time out in nature, enjoying silence, solitude, and the peace and relaxation of winter in the woods. You’re still in luck; cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are popular activities here too. It only makes sense that many of the trails enjoyed on foot during the summer translate well into skiing and snowshoeing paths this time of year. McCauley Mountain has a system of cross-country ski trails in addition to the downhill slopes, and other spots like the nearby town of Inlet’s Fern Park and golf courses in both Inlet and Old Forge offer options as well. You can rent skis and snowshoes right in town at Mountainman Outdoor Supply Company, where the staff can also assist you in picking out a good spot to head out to and enjoy.

When you’re ready to come inside and warm up, or if you’d rather just stay indoors in the first place, you have plenty of options to choose from. There are other local attractions to visit year-round to fill an off-trail afternoon. Bars, restaurants, and other eateries offer a chance to come in out of the cold and warm up with friends; or, sip on a local brew at the Fulton Chain Craft Brewery. And when the day is done, local hotels, motels, resorts and vacation rentals provide a great place to rest for the night so you can get up and enjoy it all again tomorrow!

Photo Credits
Snowy panorama photo credit Experience Old Forge
Snowmobiles photo credit Wikimedia Commons
McCauley Mountain ski trails photo credit McCauley Mountain
Winter scene photo credit Timo Newton Sims

posted at: 2020-01-07 20:10:00, last updated: 2021-04-06 15:55:53

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