Winter Activities

This Winter, Put One Snowshoe in Front of the Other

When the Catskills are blanketed in snow, there’s no shame in hitting snooze and tucking yourself in for an entire day. But, under the right conditions, stepping outside can lead you straight into a wintery adventure. Greene County, which is right on Scribner’s Catskill Lodge’s doorstep, is home to more miles of hiking trails (and more high peaks) than any other county in the Catskills, making it worthy terrain for snowshoeing adventures. We asked Jeff Vincent, Scribner’s trusty Mountain Concierge, how to put your best foot forward this winter.

What You’ll Need

While hiking in winter doesn’t always require snowshoes (it really depends on the level of snowfall), they’ll fit over nice warm hiking boots and will spread your weight evenly across the surface of the snow. In short, they’ll allow you to float verses hole-punch your way across the Catskills. And, don’t forget the snowshoe’s trusty companion – the trekking pole. “I hike with trekking poles all year-round,” recommends Vincent. “If you’re climbing uphill, the trekking poles will get your upper body involved, and will help you pull yourself up the hill.”

What to Wear

“Dress like you’re going sleigh riding or skiing,” says Vincent. His checklist includes waterproof hiking boots, outer layers (like snow pants and a shell to keep moisture out), insulating layers, warm socks, gloves, etc. And, most importantly, bring more than you think: “Definitely bring extra warm layers just so you can keep yourself comfortable throughout the day.”

What to See

“It’s nice to go snowshoeing because the crowds aren’t as drawn to the trails in winter as they are in summer...you get more peace and quiet,” says Vincent. As the trees lose their leaves, they unlock panoramic views once blocked by lush forests. And, depending on where you hike, you’ll spot everything from frozen waterfalls and lakes to traces of wildlife: “In the winter, one thing that’s really cool is that you’ll see more animal tracks — like Bobcat and deer tracks — than you would see in the summertime.”

Safety First

No matter where you trek, Vincent recommends carrying a map with you — especially during the wintertime, when the conditions are tougher and it’s easier for you to lose your way. After you’ve mapped out your route, go the extra mile: “Leave your plan with someone at home, or the front desk,” says Vincent, to ensure someone else knows where you are. “And bring extra food and water because you’ll be working harder and you’ll burn more energy.”

By: Keith Flanagan

How to Build a Snow Person:

When winter arrives, and snow blankets the normally grassy fields and lush forests, it’s time to build a snowperson. Follow our step-by-step guide below to construct your very own snow-being. 

Step 1:

Location, location location - An exceptional snowperson starts with a flat foundation in a shady spot. Look for wet snow that is fresh and packable.

Step 2:

Snowball 101 - Pack a snowball by scooping handfuls of snow and form a round shape. Continue to add to the snowball in your hand until it is about eight inches wide. You will need three snowballs of various sizes to create your snowperson.

Step 3:

Build the base - Once a snowball is too large or heavy to hold, roll it forward along the ground. Remember to keep changing direction so that your snowball will turn out round. 

Step 4:

Stack ‘em - Put your second largest snowball on top of the largest and place the smallest snowball at the very top. 

Step 5:

The finishing touches -

Pack some snow between your snowballs for stability. Decorate your snowperson with your choice of facial features and clothing. We suggest a carrot for the nose, buttons

or stones for the eyes and mouth, and sticks or

branches for the arms.