Forget hibernating indoors this winter. Embrace the best of the season with an action-packed itinerary focused on New York’s Oswego County. Over 2,500 square kilometres, including two cities, 22 towns and 10 villages, make this snow-capped region that snuggles just north of Syracuse a hot spot for exhilarating outdoor pursuits.

Trails and Tales

Ask locals what to do in the winter and snowmobiling is often the quick reply. The county boasts ample groomed trails, especially in the Tug Hill Plateau region. It’s known for its stunning landscapes, from dense forest to wide-open fields—perfect backdrops for your ride. The area caters to snowmobile enthusiasts, so you’ll find inviting cabins for overnight stays and plenty of restaurants to cosy up over home-cooked meals.

The Winona Forest, also part of the Tug Hill Plateau, is a prime location for snowshoeing with over 80 kilometres of marked trails that wind through the woods. The tall trees offer shelter from the wind and keep temperatures comfortable as you swoosh through pristine natural beauty. Expect near-perfect conditions, thanks to the five to almost eight metres of annual lake-effect snow that transform the area into a shimmering winter wonderland.

A Sense of Adventure

For competitive types, plan your visit to the Winona Forest during SnoFatShu, a race combining fat biking and snowshoeing held annually in February. Participants hit the trails in a test of endurance to complete a five-kilometre trail on snowshoes and almost 18 kilometres on a fat bike before aiming for the finish line.

If you’re looking for an elevated adventure, Salmon River Falls is popular among experienced ice climbers because of its dramatic views and granite cliffs. Grab your gear and follow the gorge trail to a designated climbing area. Watch for wildlife, like white-tailed deer and bald eagles.

Closer to Nature

Sometimes, just immersing yourself in nature is the best way to recharge. For those who want to try ice fishing, follow the locals to a favourite spot, like the very popular Oneida Lake, Three Mile Bay and Sandy Pond, where you can hook pike, walleye or largemouth bass.

When you want to take a break, warm up with peppermint white chocolate tea from the Oswego Tea Company and nibble on sponge candy from Man in the Moon Candies.

While you won’t be able to try every winter activity offered in Oswego County, it’s fun trying, and there will be plenty of reasons to come back.

Did You Know?

Oswego County’s strategic location has made it a desirable home to Iroquois, British and French explorers through the centuries. Today, history buffs can visit Fort Ontario and see life as it was circa 1868.