Experience Cortland Takes on Snowshoeing at Lime Hollow

Winter 2026 (for better of worse) has absolutely blessed us with snow. So much snow. The kind that squeaks under your boots and makes you question every life choice that led you to owning only one “good” pair of socks. Instead of grumbling (again), I decided it was time to make lemonade from lemons… or maybe snow cones from snowbanks. Either way, I made my way to Lime Hollow Nature Center to finally give snowshoeing another honest shot.

In winter, Lime Hollow’s Nordic Center turns into a choose-your-own-adventure for snow lovers. From January through early March (weather cooperating, of course), the center is open daily from 10am to 4pm, offering groomed trails for cross-country skiing and plenty of options for snowshoeing. Rentals are available for both adults and kids, with cross-country ski packages and snowshoes and there’s even free “Waffle Stomper” snowshoes for preschoolers. Equipment is limited, so reservations are encouraged, but everything runs on a first-come, first-served vibe that feels refreshingly low-stress. Bonus tip: swing by in the afternoon for half-price rentals from 2–4 p.m. and squeeze in a golden-hour winter wander. For more info click here.

Now, full disclosure: I had tried snowshoeing once before. It did not go well. Think unplanned snow angels. Giant, stompy steps that got me absolutely nowhere. A lot of flailing. I clearly needed guidance. Luckily for me, Rachel was running the Nordic Center that day and happily showed me the ropes, saving both my dignity and my ankles.

Here’s the snowshoeing advice that finally made it click, translated into real-life, non-intimidating terms:

• Widen your stance. Walk a little like a cowboy. Snowshoes are wider than your feet, and stepping on your own gear is a rookie mistake (ask me how I know).

• Pick up your feet. You don’t need to march, but a slightly higher step helps keep the tips from catching in deep or uneven snow.

• Use trekking poles. These were a game changer. Poles add balance, confidence, and a little extra push (especially helpful on hills). Make sure they have snow baskets so they don’t disappear into the abyss.

• On hills:

  • Going up—use heel lifts if your snowshoes have them, and don’t be afraid to stomp your cleats in for traction.

  • Going down—bend your knees, lean back just a touch, and let the tails act like brakes.

  • Side-hilling—angle your feet slightly uphill so the side cleats can grip.

After a few very glamorous laps around the parking lot, I headed for the trail. At first, my walk was… awkward. But then something shifted. My gait opened up, my stride smoothed out, and suddenly it felt natural. The trekking poles came in clutch here, equal parts balance and propulsion.

And then: bluebird skies. A glittering creek. Fresh snow off the beaten path. That’s where the adventure really began. I spotted tracks everywhere! Deer, rabbits, bird song and the unmistakable signs of wildlife going about their winter business. Pro tip: avoid walking on cross-country ski tracks when snowshoeing. Fresh snow is best, and it keeps everyone happy.

A few more tips I picked up along the way: dress in layers (moisture-wicking base layers like wool or synthetics are key), bring a small pack with snacks, water, and a map, and always carry the Ten Essentials. Snowshoeing is a sneaky good workout, and once you realize how much fun you’re having, you won’t want to turn back early. And, of course, as always, Leave No Trace. The woods are magical because we treat them with care.

I left Lime Hollow a little tired, a lot proud, and completely smitten with winter. Turns out, snowshoeing and I just needed a proper introduction.

Ready to play in the snow? Cortland County, NY is home to three ski mountains and two Nordic centers, which means you could hit a different winter adventure every day of the week! From downhill thrills to peaceful snowshoe loops, here’s where to start your adventure.

• Greek Peak Mountain Resort
  2000 NY-392, Cortland, NY 13045 | greekpeak.net
  The region’s largest winter resort, offering alpine skiing and riding, snow tubing, lessons, rentals, and on-site lodging.

• Song Mountain Resort
  1 Song Mountain Rd, Tully, NY 13159 | songmountain.com
  A laid-back, local favorite with approachable terrain, perfect for families and casual ski days.

• Labrador Mountain Ski Resort
  6939 NY-91, Truxton, NY 13158 | labradorresorts.com
  Known for steeper runs, terrain parks, and night skiing, Labrador adds extra adrenaline to your winter lineup.

• Lime Hollow Nature Center – Nordic Center
  338 McLean Rd, Cortland, NY 13045 | limehollow.org
  Groomed cross-country ski trails, snowshoe rentals, and a peaceful woodland setting that’s welcoming for all ages and experience levels.

• Greek Peak Nordic Center
  2000 NY-392, Cortland, NY 13045 | greekpeak.net
  Dedicated Nordic and snowshoe trails right at the resort, easy to pair with a downhill ski day.

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