One of the benefits of living in Saratoga Springs is the many winter activities available once the first snow falls. Whether you enjoy snowshoeing through the forest or skiing down a mountain there is something for everyone. We’ve put together a list of some of our favorite winter activities in Saratoga Springs so you can enjoy a season full of fun and adventure!
Winter in Saratoga Springs
Skiing and Snowboarding
Saratoga Springs is close to several of the area’s best mountains for skiing.
West Mountain offers 31 trails and 5 lifts for skiing and snowboarding. They offer lessons, alpine racing, night skiing and snow tubing, and after-school programs. West Mountain is just a half-hour from Saratoga, making a spontaneous ski or snowboarding trip a possibility!
An hour north of Saratoga Springs is Gore Mountain, another premier ski resort. Gore features 110 trails, 14 lifts, and six on-mountain dining options for when you need a break. Avid skiers and snowboarders can purchase a frequent skier card while those who are just learning can purchase a day pass and rent equipment. Gore Mountain also offers season passes, classes and private instruction, and gift cards.
Snowshoeing
Get outside and go snowshoeing through the numerous parks, preserves, and hiking trails in Saratoga Springs. The Saratoga Spa State Park has 12 miles of trails available to those who would like to snowshoe or even cross-country ski! A couple exits north off of the Northway is the Palmertown Conservation Area featuring great trails open to the public. The Palmertown Conservation Area covers 62 square miles and plans have been made to add more trails in the near future.
For a unique experience visit Into the Woods Farm. During the winter they offer private and weekly guided snowshoe tours through the forest and frozen streams. The snowshoe treks are open for people of all ages and abilities. You can bring your own snowshoes or rent some.
Ice Skating
Lace up your skates and hit the ice at the Saratoga Springs Ice Rink. There are public sessions available several times throughout the week in addition to open figure skating and open adult hockey. Visit their website for the current public skating calendar.
You can also go ice skating at the two seasonal outdoor rinks inside the Saratoga Spa State Park. One rink is off of the Avenue of Pines and the second is near the Victoria Pool. It’s free to skate but admission to Saratoga Spa State Park is $10 per vehicle.
Visit Ausable Chasm
Ausable Chasm has been a popular summer destination since 1870. Now visitors can enjoy the park in a whole new way with the winter guided tour. While this winter activity is more of a day trip (be prepared for a 2-hour drive north from Saratoga) it is well worth it! Reserve your spot to view gigantic icicles, descend into the depths of the chasm, and explore the rock and ice formations along the Inner Sanctum Trail.
Two-hour guided tours are available when winter conditions allow. The guided tours are limited to children age 10 and up and self-guided tours are limited to children age 8 and up. Snowshoes or ice cleats must be worn for safety and can be rented.
Relax at the Pool
If the snow and cold aren’t for you then why not relax by the pool? The Grove in Saratoga Springs offers residents a luxurious heated indoor pool and spa to escape the harsh upstate NY winters. You can also watch the snow fall from the clubhouse, community game room, or while sitting by the fire inside your apartment. Explore the floor plans or call today for more information!
There is never a shortage of things to do in Saratoga Springs. We hope you get outside (or possibly stay indoors) and try something new this winter!