With its holidays and school breaks, February is a popular time of year for vacations. Luckily, you don’t need to leave New York to enjoy a fantastic green vacation. Whether it’s a day, a week or even longer, enjoy some of the great recreational activities the Adirondacks–and all of New York–has to offer. Need inspiration? Here are some ideas to get started:

• Visit Camp Santanoni for a Winter Weekend Event. Take in the natural beauty of the Adirondacks with this winter adventure. Upcoming dates include:
  • President’s Holiday weekend, February 18-20.
  • March 11-12

• Cross-Country skiing is a great way to enjoy the sights and sounds of the season. From snow covered trees, to simple silence, to songs from our feather friends, a cross-country ski trail can lead to many memorable adventures.
• Downhill skiing at one of two New York State-owned ski centers in the Adirondacks:
  • Whiteface Mountain in Wilmington
  • Gore Mountain in North Creek
• Snowshoe for a fun Adirondack experience that provides great exercise.
• Go birdwatching at a Wildlife Management Area or any trail. Remember your binoculars and create a log of the different species you see.
• Hike the Adirondacks and enjoy the scenic winter wonderland and serenity. Be sure to check the recent backcountry notices before you go and choose an activity suited to your experience.
• Drop a line and go ice fishing (weather and ice safety permitting). Follow ice fishing regulations, have an appropriate license, and remember that 4 inches is the minimum ice thickness to handle the load of ice fishing or other activities on foot. DEC‘s ice fishing webpage includes an Ice Thickness Table (for new, clear ice only) and additional safety guidance. There are also Free Fishing Days on February 18th and 19th (President’s Day Weekend). Free fishing days offer residents and non-residents who are 16 and older* to fish without a freshwater license or recreational marine fishing registration. *Note kids under 16 can always fish for free.

No matter what activity you choose, remember to recreate responsibly, plan ahead, and Leave No Trace™.

Photo at top: Hiker in the woods during winter time. Photo courtesy of the NYS DEC.