Stay active this winter with outdoor recreation
Even with the holidays behind us, there’s still plenty to look forward to this winter. Walk along one of the Hudson Valley’s picturesque hiking trails or embrace the thrill of jetting down a snow-covered mountain. No matter your preference, Orange County, offers outdoor recreation activities that the whole family can enjoy.
Orange County Tourism’s staff recommends escaping to Orange County to enjoy the abundant splendor of the region’s landscapes. Make it a weekend getaway by staying at one of the county’s select hotels or cozy B&Bs while indulging in delicious cuisine from a nearby restaurant. From ice skating to skiing, Orange County has your favorite winter activities.
Some great outdoor recreation opportunities in Orange County include:
Thomas Bull Memorial Park, 211 State Route 416, Montgomery: Children at least 42” tall can participate in 90-minute snow tubing sessions on a hill with groomed lanes and rope tow. Tubing tickets are sold on a first come-first serve basis in-person at the front desk during operating hours. Lodge with restaurant, bar, stone fireplace and scenic views of the Shawangunk Mountains. Adjacent facilities for cross-country skiing, sledding and ice skating. Open weekends and holidays January 6 through March 4, 2018 (weather and conditions permitting).Web: orangecountynyparks.com
Mount Peter Ski Area, 51 Old Mount Peter Road, Warwick: Tubing, skiing, snowboarding, and lessons. 14 trails with 3 chairlifts, 1 carpet lift, 1 rope tow. 100 percent snowmaking. Night skiing. Rentals available. Free beginner lessons on weekends and holidays. Weekend and after-school programs. Café, pub, and 2 lodges. Web: mtpeter.com
Bear Mountain Ice Rink, Seven Lakes Drive, Bear Mountain: Public skating is available Mondays, Tuesdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays during designated hours. The ice rink is also available for private rentals Wednesdays through Fridays from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. and Sundays from 8 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Web: bearmountainicerink.com
Juckas Stables, 1204 NY-302, Bullville: Horseback riding among the 117 acres of trails winding through the breathtaking, snow-covered Orange County countryside. Novice and seasoned riders will enjoy spending time with the gentle, responsive, and well-kept horses. Lessons are available to people of all abilities in addition to hiring horses by the hour. Web: juckasstables.com
Port Jervis Watershed Trails and Park, Elks-Brox Memorial Park, Port Jervis: More than 35 miles of hiking and biking trails. Visitors can explore the terrain through mountain biking, cross-country skiing, or snowshoeing. Beautiful views of New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania. Family and pet-friendly. Open year round. Link to map on website. Web: ocopj.org and portjervisny.org
Visit Orange County Tourism’s Facebook page for up-to-the-minute postings of area events and activities.