Imagine Being Inside a Snow Globe

Have you ever wondered what being in a snow globe might feel like? The Adirondacks Tug Hill Region in Lewis County can answer that question for you in one wintery visit. Lake-effect snowstorms cover this area in a canvas of white averaging an annual snowfall of 200 inches, making it a favorite for locals and tourists alike.

Once the snow starts snowmobile enthusiasts flock to the region to ride the hundreds of groomed trails that are kept in pristine riding conditions by local snowmobile clubs. These volunteers make sure that riding is enjoyable and safe for everyone. The trails are free with no permit required. There are many different lodging and dining businesses located on or near the trails that offer wonderful places to stay and excellent food options that include deep fried cheese curd, Croghan bologna and other local favorites. You can reach Lewis County from many trail systems. Connections to Redfield, Oswego, Plattsburgh, Old Forge, Tupper Lake, Saranac Lake, the Champlain Valley, and New York and Quebec corridor trails may allow you to travel here entirely by snowmobile.

Maple Ridge Snow Park is home to the largest snow tubing hill in northern New York. Over 1,200 feet long and over 100 feet of vertical drop makes tubing here a favorite for families. As you ride the tube tow back up the hill make sure you enjoy spectacular views of the Black River Valley and the Adirondack Mountains. This park also features a large warming area complete with concessions, seating, and game tables.

Downhill skiers enjoy Snow Ridge, a complete skiing and snowboarding facility with seven lifts, 22 slopes and trails, a professional ski school, rental shop, cafeteria, restaurant, and lounge. On the rare occasion snowfall is below an optimal level, Snow Ridge has a high-volume snow-making machine to keep all the skiers happy. The ski center opened Christmas Day 1945 with two rope tows, a chalet, a cafeteria, a ski shop, and a first aid room. The many programs scheduled throughout the winter offer something for all ages and abilities.

If you are interested in a less vertical experience you can check out the new Osceola Ski and Sport Resort to experience cross country skiing like you have never seen before. With 15km of diverse terrain trails to enjoy you can meet the needs of all skiers in your group. Their ski shop has a full line of Fisher skis to rent or for sale. You can also utilize the trails for snowshoeing if you prefer a different experience to those who ski.

Snowshoeing and cross country skiing is also available across the county in various other locations including the Dept of Environmental Conservation Demonstration Area where you can tour their arboretum with more than 400 species of native and non-native trees, shrubs, perennials and fruit trees that highlight the variety of hardy species that can grow in this northern New York climate.

For more exciting things to do and see in this winter wonderland you can visit www.adirondackstughill.com or call the Lewis County Chamber of Commerce at 315-376-2213.

Article Submitted by: Kristen Aucter ~ Lewis County Chamber of Commerce