Fahnestock Winter Park

Nestled in the heart of the Hudson Highlands near Cold Spring is the Mid-Hudson Valley's newest cross-country ski center -- Fahnestock Winter Park.

The winter comes alive when gliding through 15 kilometers of machine groomed, tracked, and mapped trails. Skiing through meadows and rolling forested terrain is available for all ability levels.

Ski, snowshoe and inner tube rentals are available. Scheduled throughout the season are ski clinics and nature programs. A small inner tube sled hill is also maintained. Food, hot beverages, restrooms and changing facilities are conveniently located in a cozy warming lodge.

Situated in a 10,000-acre state park, Fahnestock Winter Park is only an hour drive from Manhattan or Poughkeepsie. It's accessible by car on the Taconic State Parkway or Metro-North commuter train to Cold Spring, with a short taxi ride to park. There is parking for cars and buses.

Fahnestock Winter Park's aim is to provide a site for sports enthusiasts to enjoy the outdoors during the winter. It is a great place to experience gliding on cross country skis or to explore the woods on snowshoes. The natural beauty of the trails is hard to miss; hemlock and hardwood groves surround old pasture lanes. Interesting granite outcropping, old stone walls and wildlife are found throughout the Park.

Many folks get their first taste of cross-country skiing on a golf course or bushwhacking in the woods on a hiking trail. The Winter Park trails allow the skier to experience the thrill of gliding easily and safely through the forest over the snow, rather than plowing through it.

Learning to cross country ski on a groomed and tracked trail also helps learn technique. One becomes a better skier which translates into fun, and makes other wilderness ski outings more enjoyable.

Families find the Park particularly enjoyable because it offers lots of open and easy terrain for children and beginners. The small sledding hill nicely compliments day long trips. For club ski trips, winterized log cabins are available for group use near the park.

New trails have been added and expanded services will be offered to include ski clinics, lessons and nature programs.

- There is a selection of top quality ski and snowshoe equipment. We stock a variety of skis, boots, and poles to fit most everyone.

- Gift certificates are available for that friend or family member who talks about wanting to learn to cross country ski. Certificates are good for one lesson and ski rental.

- Choose from a variety of lodging options. Motels, hotels and bed & breakfasts are close by (within 1/2 hour). Clubs looking for a more rustic experience can find cabin accommodations with hearty winter meals located in the park.