Upstate New York, with its landscapes and winter scenery, offers some of the most exhilarating snowmobile trails you can imagine. The diverse terrain, from flat lands, to rolling hills and steep mountains, makes it an ideal location for snowmobiling. Each trail offers unique features, catering to both thrill-seekers and those who prefer a leisurely ride through nature’s splendor. As snowmobiling continues to grow in popularity, Upstate New York remains a top destination for riders wanting both adventure and stunning landscapes!
Black Mountain (Bolton, NY)
Photo by Andy Arthur, licensed by CC BY 2.0
Let’s start with Black Mountain, a trail that promises both adrenaline and awe. Its base offers flat land, perfect for easing into your ride, but quickly turns into a steep, winding ascent. There are plenty of features that stand out on this trek, such as views of an old fire tower, Lake George and Lake Champlain, and the stunning Green Mountain National Forest in the distance. This trail is perfect for riders who want a thrilling experience on the trails, but also want to be greeted with a scenic outlook of New York farmland, greenery, and beautiful Lake George. After your day of riding, you can relax at local spots like Champs Corner Pub & Grill or Huletts Landing Ice Cream!
Prospect Mountain (Lake George, NY)
Photo by Mike Arthur
The Lake George area is loved by so many upstate New Yorkers, and many reasons contribute to why this is the case. Thrilling views of mother nature completely surrounding you, along with so many great locally owned restaurants and shops, is the perfect equation for enjoying a winter day. Prospect Mountain is a favorite among many snowmobilers in New York, as it is an adventurous seven-mile trail, twisting and turning up to the peak, which overlooks Lake George and the many other surrounding peaks. Another great feature of Prospect Mountain is the multiple outlooks throughout the duration of the trail, so if you want to take a few breaks for a beverage and a snack on the way up top, you can do so with a great view! Similarly to Black Mountain, many different restaurants, and other entertainment options are just minutes away from the trail for you to enjoy after your trek.
Adirondack Rail Trail (Tupper Lake, NY – Lake Placid, NY)
The Adirondack Rail Trail is perfect for riders who want to get out in the open and have some space to feel the power and exhilaration from their snowmobile. Spanning 34 miles, through Tupper Lake and Lake Placid, the trail offers scenic views of the Adirondack region of New York, and plenty of stopping points for a warm meal and an ice-cold beverage. There are a handful of features that make the Adirondack Rail Trail so unique, like the length, beautiful views, and spacious terrain, but there is another standout feature. Ice fishing enthusiasts would absolutely love this trail, as there are many different lakes and ponds along the trail, offering the perfect opportunity to sit back and enjoy some fishing on the ice.
Tug Hill Plateau
Photo by Kaiden Steria
While the Tug Hill Plateau isn’t necessarily a singular trail, it does contain a wide range of connected snowmobile trails that stretch across North-Central New York. From Watertown, all the way down to just above Syracuse and Utica, the trails follow the high-elevation terrain that is constantly hit with lake effect snow. This connection of trails is hundreds of miles in length, and can provide you with days’ worth of winter adventuring. While you will experience wide open terrain and breathtaking scenery, you will also witness a variety of wild life that occupies the Tug Hill region. Moose, white-tailed deer, and bald eagles are just a few of the animals you will potentially see while gliding through the Tug Hill Plateau
Old Forge, NY
Photo by Experience Old Forge
This list would not be complete without Old Forge, which is often considered the snowmobile capital of the East, and for good reason. With over 500 miles of thoughtfully groomed trails, it draws enthusiasts from across the region. The trails here cater to all skill levels, offering both thrilling rides and gentle paths for those new to the sport. Old Forge also boasts numerous amenities, including locally owned shops, as well as trail-side restaurants, breweries, and lodges, making it a perfect destination for a snowmobiling weekend. On top of these amenities, the trails themselves are so unique. Some areas are spacious and allow you to really get the power of your snowmobile going, while other areas are twisty and narrow, offering you a thrilling test of agility and precision while witnessing the snow-covered scenery. This uniqueness is what brings thrill-seekers from across the northeast to Old Forge!
Wrapping Up the Adventure
From the serene beauty of Black Mountain and Prospect Mountain, to the thrilling paths of Old Forge, the snowmobile trails in upstate New York offer an incredible array of adventures for every snowmobiler. These trails are not just routes through the snow, they are gateways to unforgettable experiences, filled with moments of pure excitement and exhilaration. Whether you’re drawn to the challenge of steep ascents, the joy of open terrain, or the brotherhood of fellow snowmobile enthusiasts, New York’s trails deliver it all.
