Cross County Skiing and Snowshoeing

Oswego County’s rolling terrain and abundant lake effect snowfall offer outstanding cross-country skiing and snowshoeing opportunities.

Skiers and snowshoers of all skill levels can enjoy over 150 miles of trails across the county. Some recreation areas feature groomed trails, while others give winter enthusiasts the opportunity to be trailblazers. 

Visit the Chateaugay State Forest in Orwell, located on the edge of the Tug Hill Plateau, for eight miles of marked trails or check out the flat terrain of Happy Valley Wildlife Management Area (WMA) in Parish, where the average yearly snowfall is 125 inches!

Located on the SUNY Oswego Campus, Rice Creek Field Station is a hidden gem and one of the Oswego attractions where visitors can explore the great outdoors. With nature exhibits, a weather station and an extensive trail system, this facility offers visitors plenty of things to do in Oswego, NY!

For a guide to recreation areas ideal for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, check out our PARKS AND RECREATION listings.