ORANGE COUNTY, N.Y. (Jan. 17, 2025) – Embrace the magic of a winter wonderland in Orange County, N.Y., where snow and ice transform the region into your ultimate playground for outdoor fun, adventure, and awe.
In the crisp winter air, hiking becomes more invigorating, the peaceful solitude is captivating, ice rinks gleam with perfection, and the slopes beckon with excitement. Orange County offers plenty of opportunities for skiing, skating, snowmobiling, tubing, snowshoeing, and so much more!
Just an hour from New York City, Orange County is your destination for unforgettable entertainment, family fun, and serene relaxation this winter season.
“Let winter’s magic reinvigorate you in Orange County, N.Y.!” said Amanda Dana, Director of Orange County Tourism & Film. “Winter blues? They don’t exist here! You’ll find activities for all and memories to last a lifetime. Be sure to savor a delicious meal in one of our wide variety of restaurants and consider staying for a weekend or longer in one of our suburb accommodations. Your visit may even start a new annual tradition! Be sure to prepare by touching base with your chosen destination to confirm conditions!”
The following are just some Orange County locations for winter fun. See the full list and search for accommodations at pickocny.com:
SKIING, SNOWBOARDING, SNOW TUBING
Mount Peter Ski Area, 51 Old Mount Peter Road, Warwick, N.Y.:
Well-known for its free beginner ski and snowboard lessons, Mount Peter is New York’s Family Mountain. In recent years, the popular destination has made a range of improvements, with greater snow-making capabilities, an expanded area for lessons, and most recently, improvements to the snow-tubing area. Learn more here.
Victor Constant Ski Area at West Point, 732 Victor Constant Road, West Point, N.Y.:
It’s part of the United States Military Academy at West Point, but the ski area is open to the public – and perfect for all levels. Novices will love the 650-foot bunny hill green circle run. More experienced skiers can take on the blue square and black diamond runs, plus a race hill. Learn more here.
ICE SKATING
Bear Mountain Ice Rink, Route 9W North, Bear Mountain. N.Y.:
Ice skating is more memorable amid magnificent scenery. That’s what makes skating at Bear Mountain State Park so special. Skating is open on weekends, with skates for rent and private sessions available. Learn more here.
Thomas Bull Memorial Park, 211 Rt 416, Montgomery, N.Y.:
The 716-acre park includes a man-made outdoor rink for hockey, plus a pond where the ice skating is free when skating conditions permit. Learn more here.
SNOWMOBILING, SNOWSHOEING, CROSS-COUNTRY SKIING
Winding Hills Park, Route 17K, Montgomery, N.Y.:
A haven in any weather, the park offers opportunities for a range of winter activities when conditions allow, including ice fishing and snowmobiling (register at the ranger’s office), plus trails ideal for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. Learn more here.
Heritage Trail, from Middletown to Harriman:
This 19.5-mile trail links several friendly communities and offers a wide variety of treasures, including scenic vistas in a bird and wildlife sanctuary, historic landmarks, murmuring streams and rolling meadows. Is snow on the ground? Bring snowshoes or cross-country skis. Trail users also study nature and shop and dine in the local villages. Access points are in Harriman, Monroe, Chester and Goshen, all with convenient parking. Learn more here.
HIKING AND STROLLING
Sterling Forest State Park, 116 Old Forge Road, Tuxedo, N.Y.:
Hikers in this unbroken deep-forest habitat will find a nearly pristine natural refuge and may encounter historic structures from the iron industry, some built before the Revolutionary War. Find exhibits about the local environment and the U.S. Senator Frank R. Lautenberg Visitor Center overlooking Sterling Lake. Check for presentations in the auditorium. Learn more here.
Huckleberry Ridge State Forest, 980 Route 6, Port Jervis, N.Y.:
The 1,450-acre forest features hiking trails that offer spectacular views of the Neversink River Valley, including sections of the 71-mile Shawangunk Ridge Trail and the 356-mile Long Path. Its close proximity to the city of Port Jervis, with its restaurants and boutiques, further enhances the destination’s appeal, drawing hikers and nature lovers to explore both the area’s natural beauty and its recreational opportunities. Learn more here.
About Orange County Tourism & Film
Orange County Tourism & Film, based in Goshen, N.Y., is the county’s tourism and film production headquarters and a participant in the I LOVE NY program. A comprehensive listing of area attractions, lodging, events and film resources can be found at www.pickocny.com. Additionally, a fun, free, 60-page travel guide is available for digital download at pickocny.com/travel-guide/.
Sleep in an architecturally significant B&B, or book a room at a nationally known hotel. Casual travelers as well as visitors looking for luxury will find a wide range of properties to consider. There are lodging options for everyone – Try our user-friendly lodging search below and come stay with us in Orange County, NY.