8 of the Best Places to Go Cross-Country Skiing In & Near Albany, NY
One of the best winter sports in the Capital Region is cross-country skiing. Not only is it a great way to spend a few hours outdoors, but there are a variety of scenic places where you can enjoy this activity. Check out these top 8 spots for cross-country skiing in and near Albany, NY, and plan your visit this season!
Lapland Lake Nordic Vacation Center
Named "Best in the Mid-Atlantic" and "Best Cross-Country Resort for Families," Lapland Lake Nordic Vacation Center in Northville is well worth the drive for cross-country skiing.
Their vast property includes 38 kilometers (approx. 24 miles) of groomed cross-country ski trails that will take you through majestic woods and along waterways. They even have 12 additional kilometers (a little over 7 miles) of ungroomed trails for snowshoeing.
What makes Lapland Lake truly special is their location. They are nestled in a unique snow basin and see plentiful snowfall each year. In fact, the winter season at Lapland Lake frequently begins in November and continues into March.
One skier raved, "A gem of a place. We try to go every year to enjoy great xc skating. The tracks are groomed to perfection, the scenery is beautiful, and the Finnish sauna is must after a day of skiing."
Both first-timers and experienced skiers are welcome, and rentals are available. Pick up a day pass, or stay the night for a ski-cation!
Albany Pine Bush Preserve
Open year round with free admission, the Albany Pine Bush Preserve is an excellent place to go cross-country skiing in Albany. The Pine Bush Preserve features approximately 20 miles of multi-use trails that are marked and considered easy to moderate.
Although the trails aren't groomed, many skiers use the preserve, so you can typically expect tracks to follow. Snowshoers are also welcome, but they should stay to the sides of the ski tracks as a courtesy to other visitors.
"XC skiing is great, a bit of everything, straight & flat, hills, even an obstacle course (going down the wooden steps that are part of the trail)" one visitor explained. "Lots of space so not crowded, free parking."
Albany County Helderberg-Hudson Rail Trail
Have you ever checked out the Albany County Helderberg-Hudson Rail Trail? This 9-mile rail trail follows the old Delaware & Hudson Railroad between the Port of Albany and Voorheesville, and the entire rail trail is paved and open to the public from dawn to dusk.
During winter, the parking areas are plowed to allow trail access for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
Please note that the rail trail surface will not be plowed. Parking and one of the trailheads are located on South Pearl Street in Albany.
Capital Hills Golf Course
In the off-season, Capital Hills Golf Course becomes a hidden gem for winter activities. Skiers, snowshoers, and sledders can enjoy over 10 kilometers (about 6 miles) of scenic trails. The course is open daily from dawn to dusk, and it's located on O'Neil Road in Albany.
The Nordic Center at Gore Mountain
Customize your cross-country ski outing at Gore Mountain's Nordic Center in North Creek. This is one of the few places in the region that makes snow for its cross-country skiers and snowshoers.
Skiers can choose from varying inclines, wooded paths, and even lighted tracks for evening outings. Rentals and lessons are available for beginners.
Pineridge Cross Country Ski Area
Explore 35 kilometers (nearly 22 miles!) of groomed cross-country ski trails at Pineridge Cross Country Ski Area in Petersburg. Nestled in the foothills of the Berkshires and Taconic Mountains, and just a quick drive east from Albany, Pineridge features acres of unspoiled wilderness.
"Trails were beautifully groomed and conditions were phenomenal!!" said one visitor. "Really gorgeous place!"
You can also enjoy night skiing, skate skiing, and snowshoeing on 15 kilometers (a little over 9 miles) of ungroomed trails. Both ski rentals and day passes are available.
The Schenectady County Forest Preserve
Head over to nearby Duanesburg for cross-country skiing in a flat to rolling woodland forest preserve. The Schenectady County Forest Preserve is comprised of 102 acres of native hardwood forest that's open to the public for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing in winter.
Trailhead parking is available on Lake Road, and the Forest Preserve is open from dawn to dusk.
Peebles Island State Park
Enjoy stunning views of the Hudson and Mohawk Rivers while skiing at Peebles Island State Park. The 1.84-mile Perimeter Trail loops around the island, providing a scenic winter adventure. Snowshoers are welcome, too.
For even more cross-country skiing options, check out New York State parks like Grafton Lakes State Park, Thacher State Park, and Cherry Plain State Park. Each offers beautiful trails just a short drive from Albany.
Preparing for Your Cross-Country Skiing Trip
Before heading out, make sure you're dressed for the conditions and have the right gear for your cross-country skiing adventure. If you're a first-timer or just looking for recommendations, view our list of essentials!
Embrace Winter on the Trails ❄️
Cross-country skiing is a fantastic way to stay active and enjoy the beauty of winter in the Albany area. Pick a trail to visit and make plans for a fun-filled ski trip today.
Find great places to go downhill skiing this winter >>
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