The best cross-country skiing in NY for families

Travel time: 1 hour 30 min by car from NYC

A place for hiking, biking, fishing and swimming in the warmer months, Bear Mountain State Park is also a prime spot for cross-country skiing and ice-skating in wintertime. Bear Mountain Nordic Ski Association hosts youth ski lessons (Nordic) for kids ages 3–12 that'll get your tykes and tweens up and skiing in no time (BYO equipment). Bear Mountain, NY (parks.ny.gov).

*Port Authority also offers day trips to Bear Mountain that'll run you $14.35–$28.70 per person.

Travel time: 2 hours 15 min by car from NYC

If you book a stay at Mohonk Mountain house, your family better buckle up for tons of outdoor fun! Apart from the Kids' Club and Teen Club (perfect for giving parents a little time to themselves), a winter stay at the beloved resort includes activities like ice skating, snowshoeing, snow tubing and cross-country skiing (pending snowfall—cross-country skiing trails open 48 hours after the first snowfall). There are 30 miles of ski trails at different levels of difficulty, so stop by Mohonk's Ski Shop for maps and tips. New Paltz, NY (mohonk.com).

Travel time: 1 hour 30 min by car from NYC 

Usually opening around November (depending on snowfall), Fahnestock Winter Park boasts groomed/mapped trails for both beginner and experienced skiiers, and most trails keep you relatively close to the lodge (which has an outdoor fireplace, hot chocolate and a sledding hill)! Carmel, NY (parks.ny.gov).

*Families can take Metro North from Grand Central to Cold Spring (and cab it 15–20 minutes). Book the cab in advance with a local cab company.

Travel time: 3 hours by car from NYC

In December (Sat, Sun through March), Frost Valley YMCA opens more than 15 miles of well-groomed, scenic cross-country skiing trails that cater to skiiers of all skill levels. Be sure to call the ski hotline to ensure proper conditions before setting out on your visit: 845-985-2291 ext 396. Rentals are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Claryville, NY (frostvalley.org). Full day $40, half day $25. Rentals $6–$12.

Travel time: 3 hours by car from NYC

High Point State Park's ski area offers more than nine miles of classic and skate cross country trails. plus a gear rental shop on site. There are also group ski lessons for kids and adults available ($19–$21 per person). Trail fee $17–$19, equipment rental $20–$23. Sussex, NJ (xcskiresorts.com).