Make the Most of Winter in the Finger Lakes
Tree-covered mountains dusted with snow, glistening frozen lakes, and countless cold weather activities, the Finger Lakes are a true winter wonderland…especially when you choose to explore the region from the inviting The Lake House. While summer may be the most popular season to visit the Finger Lakes, we love how winter transforms the landscapes, providing the perfect backdrop for a dreamy, soul-nourishing getaway.
Ready for a wintery escape that blends just the right amount of outdoor adventure and indoor relaxation? Here’s how to make the most of winter in the Finger Lakes, from speeding down the slopes to reading by the fire.
Ski and snowboard down New York’s highest slopes
Those looking to hit the slopes don’t need to look far — the best skiing and snowboarding in the Finger Lakes is located just 20 minutes away from The Lake House. With 1,200 feet of vertical rise, the impressive Bristol Mountain offers fun for the whole family, whether you’re a pro at shredding or want to try skiing for the very first time. Along with 38 slopes and trails, many of which are lit at night, state-of-the-art snowmaking capabilities, and even a mid-slope cafe, a day on Bristol Mountain is always a memorable adventure. Skiing in the Finger Lakes is made even more enticing with our curated Stay & Ski Package, allowing you to pair The Lake House comfort with mountain thrills.
Ice skate on the edge of Canandaigua Lake
Sure, there are plenty of indoor rinks and outdoor skating spots around, but we think we have the most picturesque ice skating rink in the region — right on the edge of Canandaigua Lake! From December through the end of February, The Rink at The Lake is situated just outside of Sand Bar and open Thursday-Sunday each week for family-friendly ice skating fun with an incredible view.
Go ice fishing
Fishing in the Finger Lakes isn’t only a fair-weather pastime. Canandaigua, Canadice, and Honeoye lakes are known as excellent ice fishing spots during the winter. Grab your fishing permit and gear and head out on the ice to catch trout, bass, and perch.
Get cozy in the Library Bar
Plush pillows, leather sofas, book-lined walls, and an elegant fireplace make our Library Bar extra cozy during the winter months. Sink into one of the inviting seating nooks to sip on hot coffee or warming cocktails, play a game of chess, or enjoy live music played by local musicians every Friday and Saturday.
Snowshoe along forested nature trails
For a different way to discover the region, strap on a pair of snowshoes to traverse the powdery terrain at Ganondagan State Historic Site. Situated less than 20 minutes from The Lake House and spanning 569 acres, Ganondagan State Historic Site is a National Historic Landmark and the original site of a 17th century Seneca town. The site’s trails are all accessible for snowshoeing and open daily from dawn to dusk. Alternatively, a 30-minute drive will take you to Cumming Nature Center where you can rent snowshoes and cross-country skis to explore the center’s 15 miles of forested trails, including three miles of trails specifically for snowshoers.
Curl up by your own fire with a good book
After braving the elements, it’s time to unwind and warm up indoors. Guests looking for a welcoming spot to sit and relax with their latest read can settle in next to the Library Bar’s fireplace or opt to book our select accommodations that feature in-room fireplaces, such as the Premium Lake King Suite. Feeling the fire’s soothing warmth while looking out over the frozen lake is one of The Lake House’s greatest winter pleasures.
From outdoor fire pits and s’mores sets to a comprehensive Winter Wellness Escape spa and stay package, there’s even more to discover at The Lake House during winter in the Finger Lakes. Ready to book a visit?
