Explore them all

New York State is full of great trail systems for snowmobilers. While dedicated sledders will debate which are best, we offer a short list of some of the area’s best to try. 

The Adirondack Park alone sports some 1,800 miles of trails on both private and public lands, just a small part of upwards of 10,000 miles in the New York State Snowmobile Trail system. Trails are maintained mostly by snowmobile clubs, and administered by the NYS Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation.

1. Tug Hill Plateau

This region, known for some of the heaviest snow fall in the state due to its location in the virtual “bull’s eye” of the lake effect zone, is partly in the western part of the Adirondack Park, and part on state and private lands. There are hundreds of miles of groomed trails in addition to ungroomed wilderness for the more adventurous. There are also plenty of restaurants, lodging, and attractions for those staying longer. 

2. Moose River Plains

This less developed area contains plenty of backcountry trails, entry to which can be found through two state-owned entrances. This is also considered the largest single area of Adirondack public land that is accessible by snowmobile. You can access this area from Inlet, off State Route 28. Inlet itself contains groomed snowmobile trails connecting many of the longer trails in the region.

3. Letchworth State Park

Billed as the “Grand Canyon of the East,” this beautiful park covers more than 14,000 acres, and attracts nature lovers year round. In the warmer months, its breathtaking gorges are the main attraction. In winter, the snowmobile trails (in addition to cross-country skiing and tubing) draw outdoorspeople. 

4. Lake George

Did you know the Lake George Region features more than 200 miles of trails, with a wide variety of sledding? The Thurman Trail system is one of the largest, and many start at Prospect Mountain to enjoy the full range of the area’s extensive reach. It also doesn’t hurt that great restaurants, accommodations, and shopping are nearby.

5. Old Forge

Long a haven for sledders who enjoy the area’s off-trail conveniences, the Old Forge region is close to the Tug Hill Plateau and its record snow, and sports easy access to restaurants, shops, and hotels. With more than 500 miles of trails (and most town streets open to snowmobiles), this is an ideal area to bring the whole group sledding.

6. Speculator

More than 600 miles of trails in the Speculator area, featuring beautiful lake and mountain views, are a snowmobiler’s paradise. As one part of the popular Hamilton County trail system (part of the largest system in NY), Speculator is an accessible and widely traveled system.

7. Madison County

Check out the fantastic trail system to our West and South. This region has more than 300 miles of picturesque and well-maintained trails for all skill levels. Your rides will take you along woodlands, hardwood and coniferous forests, waterfalls, and farmlands. Many towns cater to sledders with warm meals, pubs, and accommodations along the way.

Keep Exploring
While we limited ourselves to 7 snowmobile trail systems here, there are still thousands of miles of trails to ride throughout the state, from the Adirondack Seaway in St. Lawrence County, to Saranac Lake, Lake Champlain, the Lake Placid Region, Tupper Lake, Malone, Cranberry Lake, Blue Mountain Lake, and so much more. Check out the state trail map on the NYS Parks website. Remember to contact local clubs or trail system managers ahead of time about fees and more.

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