There are so many great ways to be active outdoors during the winter - when snow blankets the ground and the temperatures dip, be sure to embrace the season and take advantage of these terrific opportunities to stay active, outdoors, in the City of Syracuse - cross country ski, ice skate, sled and snowshoe!
Did you know that Sunnycrest Park is home to more than 2.5 miles of groomed cross-country ski trails? When enough snow falls and conditions permit, the trails bring skiers along a loop that includes Sunnycrest Park Golf Course and some wooded areas.
When weather/conditions permits, December 1-February 28, the Winter Lodge at Sunnycrest Park is open 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. When the lodge is open, free rental equipment is available for use in the Park. Cross-country ski equipment in both youth and adult sizes may be reserved for free (supplies are limited). Rentals are available on a first come, first serve basis. The last rental is 1:30 p.m. There is also a set of adult and youth adaptive sit-skis and a push sled.
- Equipment Rental: Skis, boots, and poles available at Sunnycrest Park during Winter Lodge hours. Adaptive ski equipment available.
The Department of Parks, Recreation & Youth Programs operates 3 skating rinks throughout the City of Syracuse: Clinton Square Ice Rink, John Dunn Ice Rink at Meachem Field, and Sunnycrest Park Ice Rink. We encourage you to visit all 3 rinks, as each rink has its own unique style and feel. Visit the Ice Skating page for rates, specials and open skate times.
Enjoy this age-old winter activity at two designated sledding hills in the city of Syracuse, near the golf course parking lots. The Burnet Park hill offers stunning views and a great workout!. Or, give the “bunny hill” a try in Sunnycrest Park for a family-friendly adventure. Parents must accompany their children on the sledding hill at all times.
- Equipment Rental: N/A - Bring your own sled.
Have you tried snowshoeing? There may be no better way to explore your City Parks on a clear, crisp winter day than on snow shoes. Snowshoeing is easy to learn, and can help improve aerobic fitness as well as strength and balance. Great form of exercise for the entire family!
When weather/conditions permits, December 1-February 28, the Winter Lodge at Sunnycrest Park is open 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. The last rental is 1:30 p.m. When the lodge is open, free rental equipment is available for use in the Park. Snowshoes in both youth and adult sizes may be reserved for free (supplies are limited). Rentals are available on a first come, first serve basis. Also, look for special classes at the Lodge throughout the winter on Syracuse.recdesk.com under "Programs".
- Equipment Rental: Snowshoe rental available at Sunnycrest Park during Winter Lodge hours.
Be on the lookout for Pop-up Snowshoe Walks in the Parks at various parks announced up to one week in advance. Announcements will be made on our FB page. Friendly staff will be onsite to hand out free equipment and site maps, while supplies. Follow us on Facebook @SyracuseParksRec for pop-up event announcements.