Winter weather transforms the Hudson Valley into the ultimate destination for outdoor fun.
ORANGE COUNTY, N.Y. (January 14, 2020) – The cold weather is here, so head to the scenic Hudson Valley where snowcapped mountains and freshly-covered slopes await! The opportunities for outdoor fun are endless in Orange County, N.Y. Just an hour’s drive from New York City, enjoy ski areas, ice rinks, riding stables, hiking, and mountain biking trails that offer fresh air and family fun.
“Winter weather fun can be found close to home with a trip to one of Orange County’s parks or ski resorts. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just looking for a place to escape with the kids, we have just the place for you,” said Orange County Tourism Director Amanda Dana. “Orange County is home to acclaimed farm-to-table restaurants and craft beverage locations, and many offer seasonal menus. Head to a nearby locale to warm up after a brisk day outdoors!”
Some great outdoor recreation opportunities in Orange County include:
- Bear Mountain Ice Rink, Seven Lakes Drive, Bear Mountain: Open through early March, this outdoor rink offers public and private skating sessions. bearmountainicerink.com
- Juckas Stables, 1204 NY-302, Bullville: Enjoy a horseback ride among the 117 acres of trails winding through the breathtaking Orange County countryside. Novice and seasoned riders will enjoy spending time with the gentle, responsive, and well-kept horses. Lessons are available to people of all abilities in addition to hiring horses by the hour. juckasstables.com
- Fancher-Davidge Park, 130 Lake Avenue, Middletown: This large lake is big enough to accommodate ice hockey and family skating sessions. No skate rentals. Open to the public, weather permitting. Admission is free and lights are available for night skating. middletown-ny.com/en/departments/recreation-parks
- Mount Peter Ski Area, 51 Old Mount Peter Road, Warwick: Head to Mount Peter this winter for skiing, tubing, snowboarding, and lessons. 14 trails with three chairlifts, one carpet lift, and one rope tow. 100% snowmaking. Night skiing. Rentals available. Free beginner lessons on weekends and holidays. Weekend and after-school programs. Café, pub, and two lodges. mtpeter.com
- Port Jervis Watershed Trails and Park, Elks-Brox Memorial Park, Port Jervis: Explore the park’s more than 35 miles of hiking and biking trails through mountain biking, cross-country skiing, or snowshoeing. Open year-round, these family- and pet-friendly trails offer beautiful views of N.Y., N.J., and P.A. discoverportjervis.com/watershed-park
- West Point Ski, 732 Victor Constant Road, West Point: Named for Capt. S. Victor Constant, this ski area on the grounds of West Point Military Academy offers skiing for all ages. Lessons, daily, and season passes are available. armymwr.com
Make your trip a weekend getaway with an overnight stay at one of the county’s cozy B&Bs or select hotels. Head to the Orange County Tourism website at www.orangetourism.org to discover more must-visit attractions, eateries, and lodging options. Additionally, a fun, free, totally revamped, 55-page travel guide is available for digital download or by request at www.orangetourism.org/travel-guide. The guide highlights Orange County’s tourism destinations, as well as suggested itineraries and lodging.
About Orange County Tourism
Orange County Tourism, based in Goshen, N.Y., is the county’s tourism headquarters and a participant in the I LOVE NY program. A comprehensive listing of area attractions, lodging, and events can be found at www.OrangeTourism.org. For a free copy of the Orange County Travel Guide, e-mail tourism@orangecountygov.com or call 845-615-3860.
