During the summer, Canandaigua is filled with bikers and boaters galore, but after the first snowfall, the area is transformed into a winter wonderland. People travel from all over to snowshoe around the scenic woods, shred the slopes at Bristol Mountain, or even bike the mountain trails (yes you read that right). Get into nature with these great winter sports that allow you to enjoy your favorite spots around Canandaigua without the crowds. Try one, or try them all!
Fat Biking
The Finger Lakes is a mountain biker’s dream destination. With trails winding up and down every mountain and beautiful scenery all around you almost wish you could bike year-round. Well, now you can! Fat tire bikes are taking over the world of winter sports as the best new way to get out and enjoy the snow. A fat bike is like a normal mountain bike but has really thick tires that help you grip the snow. Grab a fat bike and hit your favorite summer trails this winter, you may find that the natural beauty is only amplified by winter snow. Check out our favorite Finger Lake Bike Trails and plan your ride today!
Snowshoeing
There is nothing like trekking through the gorgeous woods during the wintertime. Snowshoeing is an activity that anyone can do and makes for a great day of exercise. You can bring your own snowshoes or rent a pair from Recreational Vehicles & Equipment for only $10/day! Bare Hill Unique Area is a local favorite for snowshoe explorations. This mild trail on the eastern side of Canandaigua Lake brings you to the peak of Bare Hill and rewards you with an expansive view of the lake to the West.
Nordic Skiing
Like snowshoeing, nordic skiing is a great way to travel around the Canandaigua backcountry with your friends and family. You can take off on any of the hiking trails or head to the Bristol Mountain Nordic Center for a day of fun. The Nordic Center has rentals on-site and groomed trails that are perfect for beginners and experts alike. You can even swoop into the lodge for a cup of cocoa to warm up in between laps!
Ice Skating
Ice skating is one of the most anticipated winter activities and the Greater Canandaigua Civic Center has just opened the ice rink for the season. On Friday & Saturday nights the rink is open from 8-9:20 pm and is the perfect place to go for a fun date night. There is also a special Adult Skate & Coffee Hour on Tuesdays from 10-11 am with discounted rates and free coffee! Grab a pair of skates and head out for this great wintertime tradition.
Downhill Skiing
If you are looking for something with a little more downhill action than nordic skiing, then head over to Bristol Mountain Ski Resort just 15 minutes out from town. With two high-speed quads and 1,200’ of vertical skiing, you could make runs all day on this great ski hill! Dip between groomed runs and tree skiing with expansive views all around. Insider Tip: The ski area offers specially priced lift tickets during the weekdays and the lift lines are shorter meaning you can make more runs for less. Now that’s a win-win.
Return to the warm and inviting Sutherland House Victorian Bed & Breakfast after a long day of exploring Canandaigua’s winter wonderland. You’ll be greeted with homemade goodies and a hot cup of coffee or tea while you warm your toes by the fireplace. When planning your trip to Canandaigua this winter, Sutherland House is offering a Cuddle By The Fire Special that gives you a discount on your second-night stay when booking two consecutive nights. During the weekend, you can save 25% off your second night and during your weekday stay you can save 50% off your second night! Contact the Sutherland House Victorian Bed & Breakfast to see how you can make your winter getaway exceptionally special.
Ready to experience the best towns in the Finger Lakes? Book a stay at the Sutherland House Victorian Bed & Breakfast, a historic inn located in the heart of beautiful Canandaigua, New York.