Green Recreational Opportunities in New York
School breaks and holidays make February a popular time of year for vacations. Looking for adventures in the great outdoors here in New York? From hitting the slopes, to reeling in catches, our state has a lot to offer. Interested in making plans? Here are some ideas to get started:
Visit Camp Santanoni Historic Area for a Winter Weekend Event. Take in the natural beauty of the Adirondacks with this winter adventure. Additional details for this recreational opportunity. Mark your calendars for upcoming dates:
February 14-15; and
March 14-15.
Cross-Country ski this winter. New York's many trails provide a great way to enjoy the sights and sounds of the season. From snow covered trees, to simple silence, to songs from our feather friends, a cross-country ski trail can lead to many memorable adventures.
Downhill ski on one of these New York State owned skiing opportunities:
Whiteface Mountain in Wilmington
Gore Mountain in North Creek
Snowshoe and get off on the right foot for an experience that provides great exercise. Also, check out snowshoe events at our state’s environmental education centers, such as Five Rivers.
Go birdwatching - if you have a bird feeder, you don't need to go far to enjoy a variety of feather friends. Remember your binoculars and to log the different species you see. Also, check out sites on the New York State Birding Trail when open weather permitting.
Hike close to home and enjoy the scenic winter wonderland and serenity. DEC suggests Great Winter Hikes across the state.
Visit your closest Environmental Education Center. Check out DEC's Public Events Calendar for events near you. With trails to explore and a variety of educational offerings for all ages you are sure to find entertainment and adventure close to home. Locations include: Five Rivers Environmental Education Center (Region 4), Reinstein Woods Nature Preserve & Environmental Education Center (Region 9), Rogers Environmental Education Center (Region 7), and Stony Kill Farm Environmental Education Center (Region 3). Enjoy events this February and offerings year-
around.
Go to new heights by starting the Catskill Fire Tower Challenge (weather permitting). This is an activity you can take part in other times of the year as well and be prepared to enjoy the views. And note the Catskill Fire Tower Challenge has been expanded for 2026!
Drop a line and go ice fishing (weather permitting and safety first). Remember to follow ice fishing regulations, have an appropriate license, and that 4 inches is the minimum ice thickness to handle the load of ice fishing or other activities on foot. DEC's ice fishing webpage includes an Ice Thickness Table (for new, clear ice only) and additional safety guidance. Check DEC’s website for free fishing clinics and the Calendar of Events for additional fishing activities.
Looking to get the kids outside? Attend GOGO events - Get Offline, Get Outside Challenge. New York State’s kids aged 12-18 are challenged to complete all 50 activities before the age of 19. Not sure where to start? Check the toolkit for ideas and resources.
Give your time to science by volunteering! Interested in assisting with Amphibian Migration and Road Crossings? There are upcoming trainings this month! In-person trainings will be held in Albany County on Feb. 11, in Ulster County on Feb. 14, and in Putnam County on Feb. 18. The virtual session will be on Feb. 24. Learn more and register to attend. DEC has other volunteering opportunities as well - check them out.
No matter what activity you choose, remember to recreate responsibly, plan ahead and Leave No Trace™. DEC’s website provides additional information about #AdventureAtHome and outdoor recreational activities.