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SkiingYour Guide to Skiing the Finger Lakes
Discover the Best Ski Resorts in the Region
The Finger Lakes region, known for its beautiful landscapes, charming wineries, and picturesque lakes, transforms into a winter wonderland each ski season. Ski resorts here offer a unique mix of well-groomed downhill slopes, peaceful cross-country trails, and thrilling terrain parks, making it an excellent destination for skiers and snowboarders of all abilities. From family-friendly mountains with beginner slopes to resorts with challenging trails and après-ski amenities, the Finger Lakes has something for everyone. Plan your Finger Lakes winter getaway on Lake.com, where you’ll find the perfect base for adventure.
Top Ski Resorts
Bristol Mountain Ski Resort, Canandaigua, New York
Runs: 38
Season: December to March
Day Pass: Starting at $82 USD
Bristol Mountain is the tallest ski area in the Finger Lakes, boasting a 1,200-foot vertical rise—the highest in the region. With 38 slopes and trails ranging from beginner to expert, Bristol Mountain is a well-rounded resort with something for everyone. Known for its extensive night skiing, 97% of the trails are illuminated, offering one of the most extensive night skiing experiences in New York. Bristol also hosts the “Freestyle Aerial Training Center,” where Olympic hopefuls and professional athletes train, adding an exciting twist to this family-friendly resort. With scenic views of Canandaigua Lake, Bristol Mountain is a top choice for a thrilling ski day in the Finger Lakes.
Greek Peak Mountain Resort, Virgil, New York
Runs: 55
Season: December to March
Day Pass: Starting at $70 USD
Greek Peak is the largest ski resort in Central New York, offering 34 trails across 220 acres with a mix of terrain for every skill level. This resort stands out for its amenities beyond skiing, including Cascades Indoor Waterpark, which offers fun for all ages after a day on the slopes. Greek Peak’s Nordic Center offers cross-country skiing and snowshoeing trails, ideal for those seeking a peaceful experience in the snow-covered woods. Greek Peak also has on-site accommodations at Hope Lake Lodge, a full-service spa, and a mountain coaster that operates year-round, providing a unique and exciting mix of activities for everyone in the family.
Song Mountain Ski Resort, Tully, New York
Runs: 24
Season: December to March
Day Pass: Starting at $55 USD
Song Mountain is a family-friendly ski resort offering 24 trails with a mix of beginner, intermediate, and advanced options, conveniently located just off Interstate 81. Known for its welcoming and relaxed atmosphere, Song Mountain features night skiing on several trails and a cozy base lodge with a roaring fireplace. A unique aspect of Song Mountain is its “Two-Fer Tuesdays,” where visitors can ski with a friend for the price of one ticket, making it an affordable mid-week outing. With easy access from Syracuse, Song Mountain is ideal for day-trippers looking for a quick and enjoyable escape to the slopes.
Labrador Mountain, Truxton, New York
Runs: 22
Season: December to March
Day Pass: Starting at $50 USD
Labrador Mountain, affectionately known as “Lab,” offers 22 trails across a range of skill levels, making it a great choice for both families and more advanced skiers. Known for its friendly, local atmosphere, Labrador Mountain is particularly popular among Syracuse-area skiers. The resort features night skiing and a dedicated terrain park for freestyle enthusiasts, as well as “Friday Night Lights,” where skiers enjoy live music and discounts on tickets. Labrador’s spacious lodge has a café and bar, making it easy to relax after a full day on the slopes. With well-groomed trails and a welcoming community feel, Lab is a cherished spot in the Finger Lakes ski scene.
Toggenburg Mountain, Fabius, New York
Runs: 24
Season: December to March
Day Pass: Starting at $55 USD
Toggenburg Mountain, known as “Tog” by locals, offers 21 trails and a vertical drop of 700 feet, catering to a mix of skill levels. Unique to Toggenburg is its popular restaurant, “The Foggy Goggle,” which features live music and a rotating menu of craft beers, making it a popular après-ski hangout. Toggenburg is also known for its “Family Sundays,” offering discounted lift tickets for families to enjoy a fun day on the mountain. The resort’s terrain park and night skiing add extra variety, making it a well-rounded destination for families and friends alike.
Swain Resort, Swain, New York
Runs: 35
Season: December to March
Day Pass: Starting at $49 USD
Swain Resort is one of the oldest ski areas in New York, providing a classic ski experience on 35 trails with a vertical drop of 650 feet. Known for its relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, Swain offers slopes suitable for beginners, intermediates, advanced skiers, and a terrain park. One unique aspect of Swain is its “Live and Learn” program, a value-packed season pass that includes lessons, making it an ideal choice for beginners looking to build their skills. Swain also features night skiing and a charming base lodge, where visitors can warm up with a hot meal and local brews.
Cross Country Skiing
Cumming Nature Center, Naples, NY
Trail Distance: 15 miles of groomed trails
Day Pass: $5
Season: December to March
Cumming Nature Center is a favorite destination for cross-country skiing in the Finger Lakes, offering 15 miles of meticulously groomed trails that meander through forests and meadows. The center provides a warm welcome with on-site facilities, including a visitor center with restrooms and a snack bar. Interpretive signage along the trails adds an educational element, making it ideal for families. Its modest day pass fee supports trail maintenance, ensuring a high-quality experience for all visitors.
Harriet Hollister Spencer State Recreation Area, Canadice, NY
Trail Distance: 20 miles of groomed and backcountry trails
Day Pass: Free
Season: December to March
Harriet Hollister Spencer State Recreation Area offers a premier cross-country skiing experience, boasting 20 miles of trails that cater to both beginners and seasoned skiers. Situated on a hilltop, the area provides stunning panoramic views of Honeoye Lake and the surrounding Finger Lakes region. The trails are a mix of groomed and backcountry paths, weaving through dense forests and open fields. This hidden gem is particularly loved for its consistent snowfall and peaceful ambiance, making it a favorite among locals.
Montezuma Audubon Center, Savannah, NY
Trail Distance: 8 miles of flat trails
Day Pass: Free
Season: December to March
The Montezuma Audubon Center combines cross-country skiing with wildlife observation, offering 8 miles of trails that wind through wetlands and open spaces. This unique destination is perfect for nature lovers who want to glimpse wintering birds and other wildlife. The flat terrain is well-suited for beginners, and the trails are maintained by the center to ensure an enjoyable experience. With its emphasis on conservation and serene setting, Montezuma provides an unforgettable skiing adventure.
Rogers Environmental Education Center, Sherburne, NY
Trail Distance: 6 miles of multi-use trails
Day Pass: Free
Season: December to March
Rogers Environmental Education Center combines outdoor recreation with environmental learning, offering 6 miles of trails that are perfect for cross-country skiing. The well-marked paths pass through a mix of forested areas and open fields, with interpretive signs along the way to enhance the experience. Ideal for beginners and families, this destination provides a quiet retreat while teaching visitors about the region’s natural history.
Bear Swamp State Forest, Sempronius, NY
Trail Distance: 13 miles of ungroomed trails
Day Pass: Free
Season: December to March
For cross-country skiers seeking a back-to-nature experience, Bear Swamp State Forest is a must-visit. The 13 miles of ungroomed trails provide a true wilderness adventure, passing through quiet woods, streams, and rolling hills. While the trails require a bit more effort due to their natural state, the peaceful environment and scenic views make it worth the challenge. This destination is perfect for intermediate and advanced skiers who want to escape the crowds and explore the Finger Lakes’ rugged beauty.
Frequently asked questions
Planning a winter trip to the Finger Lakes? Find answers to your top questions about the region’s best winter activities, ski resorts, and trails. The Finger Lakes offer a winter wonderland for all skill levels, from family-friendly slopes to scenic cross-country skiing opportunities.
Bristol Mountain and Greek Peak are among the most popular ski resorts in the Finger Lakes. Bristol Mountain, located near Canandaigua Lake, offers the highest vertical drop in the region. Greek Peak, near Cortland, has a large variety of trails and a family-friendly atmosphere with amenities like snow tubing and a mountain coaster.
Absolutely. Resorts like Bristol Mountain and Greek Peak have plenty of beginner-friendly slopes, with ski lessons and beginner packages for those new to the sport. These resorts offer gradual trails and dedicated learning areas ideal for beginners.
Most major ski resorts, such as Bristol Mountain and Greek Peak, offer on-site equipment rentals, including skis, snowboards, helmets, and poles. This is convenient for visitors who do not have their own gear.
Yes, Lake.com features vacation rentals, cabins, and ski-in/ski-out homes located close to the ski resorts. Many rentals offer cozy amenities like fireplaces, hot tubs, and scenic views, making them perfect for unwinding after a day on the slopes.
Yes, most larger ski resorts offer après-ski amenities, including on-site dining, cafes, and bars. Additionally, the Finger Lakes region is known for its wineries and breweries, so you’ll find plenty of après-ski options, both on and off the slopes.
Yes, ski resorts like Greek Peak offer activities for non-skiers, such as snow tubing, mountain coasters, and winter hiking trails. Many vacation rentals in the area are also near charming small towns, breweries, and wineries that stay open year-round.