Revel in Syracuse snow with downhill, cross-country skiing this season
The recent snowstorm that swept the country has offered central New York’s hills and mountains a fresh layer of snow for beginner and advanced ski and snowboarding enthusiasts. From resorts to mountains, The Daily Orange has compiled a list of the most popular spots for winter sports lovers. Sofia Turci Lopresti | Contributing Photographer
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With a snowstorm passing through the area earlier this week, central New York’s hills and mountains now have a fresh layer of powder, making it the perfect time to put on skis or snowboarding boots. Whether you’re taking advantage of Syracuse University’s ski trips or venturing out on your own time, The Daily Orange has compiled a list of the most popular spots for winter sports this season.
Drumlins Country Club
If you’re an SU or SUNY ESF student skiing on a budget, register through the Wellness Portal for a day of free cross-country skiing just under two miles from campus. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a total beginner, this is a good place to start. All equipment, transportation and preparation are provided through registration.
Greek Peak Mountain Resort
Central New York’s home mountain and largest ski resort houses 45 ski trails, terrain parks, tubing conveyor belts and more. Founded in 1958, the resort has served the Finger Lakes region for years, with numerous amenities and trails. Take an hour trip south of Syracuse to Cortland, NY for a full day or weekend at this key spot. A full-access ticket costs $120 for one full day.
Song Mountain
Just 30 minutes south of SU’s campus is Song Mountain in Tully, NY. The resort offers 24 trails in varying difficulty levels. With powder machines running and machine groomed runs, the mountain is a popular spot for locals. Purchase a two mountain package season pass through SkiCNY or a day ski/snowboard pass through SU’s Wellness Portal. An eight-hour adult pass is $69 for college students who show their ID.
Labrador Mountain
Travel 20 minutes east of Song Mountain to SkiCNY’s other resort at Labrador Mountain. The resort has 22 trails with more blue and black diamond runs, fit for experienced skiers and snowboarders. Stop at the Puffin Bird after for a classic American meal and a variety of craft beers. SU offers students a reduced price night pass for $10 to $34 through the Wellness Portal.
Woods Valley Ski Area
If your experience with snow sports is limited, Woods Valley Ski Area’s large beginner terrain and lessons are for you. During your visit in Westernville, NY, you can either stay near the base to get familiar with skis or a snowboard, or take a lift up to the more advanced runs. A “Learning Zone” lift ticket, which allows you to ski from 4 to 8 p.m., costs $25.
Sunnycrest Park
If steep mountain runs are not for you, take a trip to Sunnycrest Park located near Lincoln Hill in Syracuse. When weather permits and snow is ample, the Winter Lodge at the park is open 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on weekends. With over 2.5 miles of groomed cross-country trails, you can ski around the Sunnycrest Park Golf Course and a loop of wooded areas.
Osceola Tug Hill Cross Country Ski Center
For just $10 to $40 a trip, SU and ESF students can register for this cross country ski trip on the famous Tug Hill Plateau, east of Lake Ontario. Transportation is included to explore over 100 acres of gorgeous trails. Registration opens one month prior to the trip date and includes equipment and basic technique instruction. Their open trip is scheduled for Feb. 28.
