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The Adirondack Town of Old Forge Becomes a Winter Wonderland

posted by Teresa Farrell at 2023-02-24 17:47:00

Winter in Upstate New York is a special time. Though it’s cold outside, there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy that are only available this time of year, giving year-round destinations like the Adirondack town of Old Forge a special seasonal flair.



Winter is “peak” season to spend a day downhill skiing, and in Old Forge, that means spending the day at McCauley Mountain Ski Area. McCauley offers 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.



If the slopes aren’t calling your name, Old Forge is a great place to enjoy the peace and relaxation of winter in the woods. 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 Inlet and Old Forge offer skiing and snowshoeing areas as well. And located between the two towns, Adirondack Woodcraft Camps offers 10 miles of cross country ski trails, with two miles lit up for night skiing as well.



Of course, this area’s biggest winter claim to fame is a little heavier on the adrenaline: Old Forge is one of the top destinations in Upstate New York for snowmobiling season. It makes sense-- the yearly snow
fall 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. The area has 500 miles of snowmobile trails, and a dedicated team of trail groomers go out twice a day during peak season to make sure they’re in prime condition.



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 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. The Old Forge Camping Resort even has year-round cabins available, so you can try winter “camping” if you want (with heat). There’s really something for everyone to enjoy in Old Forge this time of year!

 
PHOTO CREDITS

Old Forge sign in snow photo credit Old Forge Visitors Information Center
McCauley Mountain aerial view photo credit McCauley Mountain
Cross country ski trails photo credit Adirondack Woodcraft Camps
Snowmobiles at sunset photo credit Susie Reilly Russo

 

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