Winter in Amsterdam can be a magical time of year. The snow-covered landscape glitters in the sunlight while skating rinks and snow-covered hills offer a chance to experience the winter wonderland in a variety of ways. Here are three fun winter activities within driving distance of Amsterdam, NY that are sure to make your winter season one to remember. Winter Hiking at Thacher Park Hiking in winter is a great way to experience the landscape in a whole new way. The white landscape is transformed into sparkling and breathtaking scenery that you'll never see in summer. With an average of one snowfall per week in winter, the American northeast is one of the best places in the country for winter hikes. Although the trails are generally well-groomed, you should be prepared for inclement weather and changing conditions. Thacher Park is located at 1 Hales Cave Rd, Voorheesville, and there are approximately 50 miles of trails through the park, making it one of the area's most popular hiking destinations. Snow Tubing at West Mountain Snow tubing is an easy way to have a good time in the snow without having to ski or board. You'll be strapped into a tube and then sent down a hillside that's been covered with snow. West Mountain is only 10 minutes from downtown Amsterdam. They offer snow tubing and tubing with a guide. Snow Tubing is only $7 per hour and they have both regular and special needs tubes available. West Mountain also offers skiing and snowboarding lessons for all ages, as well as snowshoeing, ice skating on a rink, and cross-country skiing on over 20 miles of trails. West Mountain is located at 59 W Mountain Rd, Queensbury. Ice Skating at the Albany County Hockey Facility Amsterdam isn't the only place in the area that offers ice skating opportunities. With an average annual temperature of 20 degrees Fahrenheit, the Capital District is one of the best places in the country to experience ice skating during the winter. There are several public ice rinks in the area, including the Albany County Hockey Facility. The hockey facility is home to its top-notch amateur ice skating program. The ice skating season runs from early December to early April, and there are two public sessions a day that runs Monday to Friday. The ice skating season is truly one of a kind, and it's a great way to spend a winter afternoon. It is located at 830 Albany-Shaker Rd, Loudonville. Winter is a great time to get outside and enjoy nature. With fewer people in the area, you'll have a lot more privacy and a lot less traffic during your winter adventures. The brand-new Ford Bronco Sport is a great car to take on any of these spots. It has plenty of space to store all your gear. Make sure you stop by Brown's Ford of Amsterdam to find a Ford that fits your needs. Image courtesy of Pixabay.com
