When the snow falls, Ithaca’s trails don’t go quiet—they sparkle with new possibilities.

Strap on your cross-country skis at Hammond Hill State Forest, where miles of groomed trails wind through peaceful, snow-dusted woods. It’s a local favorite for winter adventure, with routes for beginners and seasoned skiers alike.

Looking for something a little more off the beaten path? Try the Lindsay-Parsons Biodiversity Preserve, where open meadows and gentle hills create a serene winter backdrop for hiking, snowshoeing, or quiet exploration.

For a shorter stroll, head to Buttermilk Falls State Park and follow the Larch Meadow Trail—a year-round loop that winds through fields and forest, beautiful even when the falls are frozen in time.

Bundle up, breathe deep, and let winter show you another side of Ithaca’s wild beauty.