The way to beat winter is by embracing it—lean into all those activities you can only do in the frigid months. When snow blankets the ground and frosty breeze makes the naked branches clack together,, the season opens up a whole new world of outdoor fun, cozy gatherings, and festive traditions. From gliding on ice to sipping a well-earned cocktail after a day on the slopes and reveling in holiday cheer, here are the must-do winter activities that make the season magical in the Hudson Valley.
🎄 Dive Into Holiday Events
First up, and timely for December: Get in the holiday spirit! From festive parades to tree lightings and seasonal shows, the Hudson Valley’s winter calendar is full of holiday events that bring the community together. From holiday markets to a Polar Express train ride and local performances of classic seasonal plays and ballets, these holiday events in the Hudson Valley will get you in the merry Yuletide spirit in no time.
✨ See a Holiday Light Show
Holiday light shows are the silver lining to it getting dark at 5pm, bringing a festive warmth and wonder to chilly nights. Drive or stroll through dazzling holiday displays from animated walk-through light experiences to family-decorated spectacles and themed farm trails. These family-friendly experiences are magical settings for photos, cocoa, and a bit of festive joy. Here’s a full list of the Hudson Valley’s holiday light shows.
⛸️ Go Ice Skating
Lace up your skates and enjoy this classic winter pastime on one of the Hudson Valley’s rinks—from outdoor spots like Bear Mountain Ice Rink, with its stunning winter views, to manicured indoor ice arenas like those in Saugerties or Poughkeepsie. You can even skate at the scenic pavilion at Mohonk Mountain House or find a local pond or lake, like the one in Tannersville. Many spots offer skate rental and sharpening. Here are all the ice skating spots in the Hudson Valley.
🛷 Hit a Sledding Hill
Nothing says winter like the rush of careening down a snowy hill on a sled, no matter how old you are The Hudson Valley is dotted with great sledding spots, from the wide-open slopes at Drayton Grant Park’s Burger Hill in Rhinebeck to family-friendly runs in Bowdoin Park, Fahnstock Winter Park, Mount Beacon Park, and more. Whether it’s a gentle glide or a thrilling rush, bring your sled and snow gear for an afternoon of snowy fun. Here a round up of sledding hills in the Hudson Valley, though your neighborhood probably has its own secret spot.
🏔️ Hit the Slopes at a Ski Resort
We’re not breaking the mold with this suggestion, but if you know how to ski or snowboard, don’t let the winter season pass you by without a day (or four) on the slopes at one of the Hudson Valley’s seven ski resorts. Spots like Belleayre, Hunter Mountain, and Windham offer runs for all levels, whether you’re a seasoned rider carving down the steep double black diamond trails or a beginner taking lessons. If you don’t know how to ski or snowboard, all the area’s resorts have equipment rental, private and group lessons, plus almost every resort from Hunter Mountain to Mount Peter offers snowtubing, which is thrilling in its own right.
🍹 Enjoy Après-Ski
Everybody loves a good apres-ski session. We’re not strict about the skiing/snowboarding requirement, but some time moving in the brisk air—be that snowtubing, sledding, or snowshoeing—does seem to make the hot toddy taste sweeter. After a day in the cold, trudge your rosy cheeks over to one of these Hudson Valley or Catskills apres-ski spots for good food and warm drinks. Organized by ski mountain, this round-up offers lodges and nearby taverns, from the German comfort of Jaagerberg at the foot of Hunter Mountain to inventive ciders to hearty farm-to-table meals at Peekamoose Restaurant & Tap Room, just five minutes from Belleayre.
🎿 Cross-Country Skiing & Snowshoeing
For a peaceful way to explore winter landscapes, try cross-country skiing or snowshoeing at one of these Hudson Valley spots. Many local parks and trails groom winter routes that let you glide through snowy forests and fields at your own pace, combining fresh air, scenic views, and a great workout as you weave through the quiet beauty of a winter Valley. If you don’t know the first thing, don’t let that stop you. Brush up with these local cross-country skiing workshops and resources.
