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Four Fun Places to Snowshoe in the NoCo

Photo: Christopher Porter; Creative Commons

Four Fun Places to Snowshoe in the NoCo

By Kelsey Mattison

Happy Spring Equinox! Today may be the first day of spring, but spring hasn't sprung just yet in the North Country. One way you can take advantage of the snow this year is by getting outside and exploring on snowshoes. 

Snowshoeing is fun for all ages and abilities, and is a great winter activity to share with friends or family. Plus, strapping on some snowshoes spreads out your weight on the trail... you might not end up quite as nimble as a snowshoe hare, but you won't sink either! 

Get a group together and head out to one of these four great North Country locations for some late season snowshoeing:

1) Higley Flow State Park, St. Lawrence County

Take a trek through the woods along the Raquette River down in Colton, just south of Potsdam, along the seven miles of trails groomed for cross-country skiing as well as snowshoeing and snowmobiling. Warm up in the lodge after with some hot chocolate!

2) The Massena Nature Center (at Robert Moses State Park)

The Nature Center has 25 km of trails to discover, as well as free rentals on weekends. Pick up a pair of snowshoes between 9am and 3pm Saturdays and Sundays or bring your own and get walking, any day! 

3) Tug Hill State Forest, Copenhagen

The Tug Hill State Forest boasts almost 18 miles of trails for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing as well as spectacular views of a canyon and a waterfall! There are specific trails for every skill level, whether you are a first-time snowshoer or an experienced pro.

4) Wellesley Island State Park, Thousand Islands

View the scenic Thousand Islands on a snowshoe trek over the seven miles of trails the Wellesley Island State Park has to offer. Rentals are just $3 and you can explore the Nature Center to learn about local flora and fauna when you are done. The Minna Anthony Common Nature Center is open everyday from 8am to 4pm.

The trails are waiting and the sun is shining, better get outside before spring finally takes hold!

Have you had an epic winter adventure this year? Share your photos with us on natureupnorth.org by posting an encounter.
 
 
By Kelsey Mattison
Canton, NY

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