Snowshoeing in Harriet Hollister Spencer State Recreation Area

Destinations Northeast New York Finger Lakes

Snowshoeing in Harriet Hollister Spencer State Recreation Area

Harriet Hollister Spencer State Recreation Area offers a unique winter experience for those looking to enjoy the beauty of the Finger Lakes region near Ithaca, New York. This guide provides detailed information on snowshoeing in this scenic area, including what to know before you go, interesting facts, and how to get there.

Overview

Snowshoeing in Harriet Hollister Spencer State Recreation Area is a wonderful way to experience the serenity and natural beauty of the Finger Lakes region during the winter months. The area provides breathtaking views of Honeoye Lake and the surrounding hills, making it a perfect spot for winter sports enthusiasts.

Interesting Facts

Elevation Advantage: Situated at a higher elevation than the surrounding landscape, the area often receives more snow, making it ideal for snowshoeing.
Dedicated to an Advocate: The park is named after Harriet Hollister Spencer, a Rochester native who was a passionate advocate for outdoor recreation.

What You Should Know

Trail Variety: The area offers several miles of trails suitable for snowshoeing, ranging from easy to moderate difficulty.
Preparation is Key: Make sure to dress in layers and bring water and snacks. The weather can change quickly.
Wildlife: Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including deer and various bird species that call this area home during the winter.

Local Knowledge

Best Time to Visit: After a fresh snowfall is the best time to experience the area's true beauty.
Equipment Rental: While there are no rental facilities on-site, nearby towns offer snowshoe rentals.

Directions from Ithaca

To reach Harriet Hollister Spencer State Recreation Area from Ithaca, take NY-79 E to NY-38 N. Follow NY-38 N and then take NY-21 N to Canadice, NY. The trip typically takes around 1.5 hours, depending on weather and traffic conditions.

Snowshoeing here offers an invigorating and picturesque winter activity for all ages. Whether you're a seasoned snowshoer or trying it for the first time, the Harriet Hollister Spencer State Recreation Area promises a memorable outdoor adventure.

Adventure Map

Reviews

Megan Ma year ago

Harriet Hollister Spencer State Recreational Area is a wonderful park in Ontario County, New York. It is used for hiking, biking, skiing, and picnicking. There is a pavilion on the park grounds. The road accessing the park is gravel and quite bumpy, so take it slow. The view is absolutely gorgeous in the fall time!

hollenbeck to nowherea month ago

One of the best places around the Rochester area to ride or hike during the summer. The trails are technical in some areas. There is some challenging climbs. However the fun factor will have you smiling from ear to ear. I highly recommend this place to hike, bike or hangout.

Hugo Stachel4 years ago

Always fun hiking around the trails here, especially in the fall. The views of Honeoye Lake are simply spectacular. Great for families with young children and people with dogs.

Cary Gammella month ago

We are lucky to live very close to this park. My kids love to go there and go to the lookout spot that is looking over the lake. No matter how many times we've done it, it never gets old!

shweta wahane4 years ago

Superb location. So peaceful. Excellent for a picnic. The seats on the side give an amazing view. When I visited this place, there was an old couple celebrating their anniversary on one of the benches. They carried a bottle of champagne & some snacks with them. Totally cute & adorable.