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New York State Year-Round Destinations: One State, Four Seasons of Adventure
From snowy trail rides and cozy winter getaways to spring waterfalls, summer lakes, and peak-fall foliage—New York State is built for every season.
New York State in four seasons—plan a trip now, then come back for the next season’s magic.
If you think New York is a “summer only” destination, you’re missing three quarters of the story. New York State is one of the best
places in the Northeast for year-round travel—because each season feels like a new world.
Winter: Trails, Snow Days, and Cozy Stays
Winter in NYS is all about crisp air and fresh snow—perfect for snowmobile routes, winter hiking, skiing, and small-town lodging
where the day ends by the fireplace. The best part? Many trail systems connect directly to communities with food, fuel, and warm beds.
Spring: Waterfalls, Wildflowers, and Easy Weekend Trips
Spring wakes the state up—rivers run high, waterfalls roar, and woodland trails turn bright green. It’s a great time for scenic drives,
nature photography, and low-crowd exploring in the Finger Lakes, Adirondack foothills, and hidden-gem parks across the state.
Summer: Lakes, Village Life, and Outdoor Everything
Summer is classic New York—lakeside swimming, paddling, hiking, festivals, farm stands, and sunsets that make you stay “just one more day.”
Whether you’re into big views or quiet shorelines, there’s always a place nearby that feels like a getaway.
Fall: Foliage Drives, Harvest Stops, and Golden-Hour Views
Fall is when New York turns cinematic. Scenic byways glow, small towns shift into harvest mode, and the hiking is at its best—cool,
comfortable, and packed with color.
Quick Trip Ideas by Season
Winter: Snowmobile-friendly lodging + connected trail systems + warm local diners
Spring: Waterfall loops + state parks + short hikes with big payoff views
Summer: Lake days + village strolls + picnic spots + sunset overlooks
Here’s the fun strategy: pick one region you love—then visit it once each season. You’ll get four completely different experiences
without learning a new map every time. That’s one of the best “travel hacks” in New York State.
Up next: I’ll be building a growing list of year-round destinations across NYS—places that shine in winter, spring,
summer, and fall. If you have a favorite, send it my way.
Multi-Day Horseback Riding Trails in New York State
For riders seeking true adventure, few experiences compare to a multi-day horseback journey — traveling trail to trail, camping overnight, and immersing yourself in the landscape. While New York State is known for its extensive trail networks, only a select few areas are designed to support multi-day equestrian travel with camping access.
Fortunately, New York does offer several well-established trail systems where riders can legally plan 3–4 day trips with horses, camp along the way, and enjoy some of the state’s most scenic terrain.
1. Brookfield Trail System (Central New York)
The Brookfield Trail System is widely considered the premier destination for multi-day horseback riding in New York State. Located in Madison and Chenango counties, this network includes over 130 miles of marked trails across state land, private property, and town roads.
Why It Works for Multi-Day Rides
Extensive interconnected loop system
Designated equestrian camps
Horse-friendly camping areas
Water access and open riding terrain
Well-maintained and clearly marked routes
Riders can easily plan 3–4 day loops without retracing the same trail twice, making Brookfield a favorite among endurance riders and long-distance trail enthusiasts.
2. Allegany State Park (Western New York)
Allegany State Park is one of the largest state parks in New York and offers an extensive equestrian trail network suitable for extended riding trips. The park includes over 100 miles of trails, many of which are open to horses.
Equestrian Camping at Allegany
Designated equestrian camping areas
Trailer parking and horse-friendly campsites
Access to water sources
Loop-based trail system for multi-day planning
With its rolling hills, forested paths, and quiet backcountry sections, Allegany State Park is well suited for riders looking for a structured, legal multi-day riding experience.
3. Tug Hill Region (Selected Trail Systems)
The Tug Hill Plateau offers several equestrian-accessible trail systems that can support extended rides when carefully planned. While not all trails are designated specifically for horses, certain multi-use networks and seasonal access routes allow for longer excursions.
Important Notes for Tug Hill Riders
Trail access may be seasonal
Camping rules vary by location
Advance planning is essential
Local trail organizations are valuable resources
Tug Hill is best suited for experienced riders familiar with backcountry travel and navigation.
4. Finger Lakes National Forest (Extended Loops)
Located between Seneca and Cayuga Lakes, the Finger Lakes National Forest allows equestrian use on designated trails. While most rides are day-based, the forest’s loop system and nearby camping options make it possible to plan multi-day itineraries.
Riders should note that horses are not permitted in developed campground areas, so planning must align with forest regulations.
Key Planning Considerations for Multi-Day Rides
Camping & Horses
Only camp in designated equestrian or primitive camping areas
Use portable electric fencing or high-line systems where allowed
Follow Leave No Trace principles
Grazing & Feed
Confirm grazing rules before your trip
Carry supplemental feed if required
Use weed-free hay when mandated
Permits & Regulations
Check state park or forest rules ahead of time
Confirm negative Coggins requirements
Respect seasonal trail closures
Is New York Right for Long-Distance Riding?
While New York does not yet offer a single continuous long-distance equestrian trail spanning hundreds of miles, it does provide well-managed regional systems ideal for 3–4 day horseback trips. These areas balance access, safety, and environmental protection — making them excellent destinations for riders seeking authentic trail experiences.
With thoughtful planning and respect for trail rules, multi-day horseback riding in New York State can be both rewarding and unforgettable.
Five Surprising Hemp Products Made in New York State
New York’s hemp industry is growing fast — and it’s not just about CBD oils or supplements.
Across the state, farmers, makers, and small businesses are transforming hemp into innovative
products that might surprise even lifelong New Yorkers.
Here are five unique hemp-based products created right here in the Empire State.
1. Hempcrete Building Materials
Some New York builders and eco-focused companies are turning hemp stalks into
hempcrete — a lightweight, sustainable building material used for insulation,
wall systems, and energy-efficient construction. It’s fire-resistant, mold-resistant,
and carbon-storing, making it appealing for green-friendly home projects.
2. Hemp-Based Clothing & Textiles
Small textile makers and upstate fiber mills are experimenting with
hemp-blend fabrics for clothing, hats, bags, and durable everyday wear.
Hemp fiber is naturally strong and breathable, giving NY-made textile products
a long-lasting, eco-conscious appeal.
3. Gourmet Hemp Heart Snacks
New York’s farm-to-table movement has embraced hemp hearts as a versatile
superfood. Local producers now offer flavored hemp snacks — everything from
maple-roasted seeds to savory herb blends — perfect for healthy snacking, salads,
and smoothie bowls.
4. Hemp Seed Oil Skincare
Several NY wellness makers craft gentle skincare formulas using
cold-pressed hemp seed oil. Unlike CBD oils, hemp seed oil comes from the seed
itself, offering natural moisturizing benefits without cannabinoids. You’ll find New York-made
lotions, soaps, balms, and facial oils at markets and boutique shops across the state.
5. Hemp Pet Treats
Yes — hemp is even showing up in New York’s pet market! A handful of small businesses
produce hemp-based pet treats using hemp hearts or hemp protein as the foundation
for high-nutrient biscuits and chews. They’re popular with dog owners looking for
grain-free, protein-rich alternatives.
Where to Find These Products
You’ll spot New York-made hemp items at:
Local farmers markets
Specialty food shops
Craft fairs and artisan festivals
Outdoor and wellness stores
Online shops operated by NY growers and makers
As the industry grows, expect even more creative uses of this versatile plant.
From construction materials to gourmet foods, hemp is quickly becoming one of New York’s
most interesting and innovative agricultural products.
Whether you're traveling across the state or browsing locally, keep an eye out —
the next great New York-made hemp product might surprise you.
Geocaching in New York State! Geocaching is a real-world treasure hunt using GPS-enabled devices. At your final destination, you will find a geocache container. The container may have; a log book for you to sign, a camera for you to take a picture of you and your group at the final destination, an item that another player has put in for exchange for a small item you will put it, a coin that you may take to another location and exchange for something waiting for you at that location, or literature or history about your final destination. With geocaching, the possiblities are endless. The treasure at the end of your hunt may be a beautiful waterfall, mountain cliff, or other natural scenic view or overlook that you may have never even knew existed. The treasure could be a souvenir from the particular area you are visiting. The geocaching hunts and their treasures are varied and can be a great way for you and your family to see and do things that you most likely would not have been able to do without the geocaching real-world treasure hunt.
There are many trails in New York State ready for your first geocaching expedition! ...>>
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