It feels like winter is embraced in other countries and communities more than it is here in Rochester. Maybe its just me but I feel like other cultures look forward to winter because they embrace all that it comes with, in comparison to many Rochesterians waiting for winter to be over. I’m a recent convert and my attitude started to change when I decided to embrace the cold.

I couldn’t believe when I started to look up snowshoeing and cross country skiing how many places locally you could easily rent from and how inexpensive it was. I’ve personally only rented from Hansen Nature Center at Tinker Nature Park but on the following page will be links and Information to other rental spots across the Greater Rochester area.

Located in Henrietta Is Hansen Nature Center. Ski and Snowshoe rentals are available to rent for just $5 (cash only) Tuesday - Saturday 8:30am - 3:00 pm. Equipment Is to be returned by 4:00 pm.

Snowshoe rentals are Saturdays in January/February from 1pm-3pm. $5 adults(13+) $3 kids 12 and under $3 HNC members* $20 max per family cash or check only! Snowshoeing is self-guided and on a first come, first served basis. Saturday Snowshoe is weather dependent and requires a 6-8" snow base.

If you take a drive down to Naples, you can not only rent but partake In a lesson on Saturdays and Sundays! In addition to snowshoe and xc ski rentals, Cumming Nature Center also has sled rentals for toddlers.

Bristol Mountain, Canandaigua (45 Minutes from Rochester)

Swain Resort, Swain, (1 hour from Rochester)

Holiday Valley, Ellicottville (2 hours from Rochester)

Greek Peak, Cortland (2 hours from Rochester)

Labrador Mountain, Truxton (2 hours from Rochester)

GetMyPerks.com occassionally has BOGO lift tickets for Swain & Bristol! Check it out before visiting, just in case!

Swain has skiing lessons and open ski at Powder Mills Park! The hills as you can imagine are a lot less steep but if you or your kids are interested in dipping your toes into skiing, this is a great way to test it out before driving out a distance from ROC!

A day trip (or weekend trip) to Holiday Valley in Ellicottville is an awesome visit just a few hours from Rochester! In addition to downhill skiing, Holiday Valley also has the Mountain Coaster! How many places can you hop on an outdoor roller coaster in the winter?! You can purchase a single ride for just $12 and is fun for the whole family!

While I have not had a chance to experience it, as I was talking about this section of the magazine, I was told Greek Peak also has a mountain coaster.