Winter Trails

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Winter Trail Etiquette

CPF’s winter trails are multi-use trails enjoyed by cross-country skiers, snowshoers, dogwalkers, fat tire bikers, and in the case of the South Trail, snowmobilers. By following these few rules of winter trail etiquette, we can improve the experience for everyone.

When walking on snowy trails, snowshoes are preferred unless snow conditions are very firm. This prevents “post-holing”—when your legs sink deep into the snow with each step.

On trails where tracks have been set for cross-country skiing by grooming machines or where skiers have established well-travelled tracks, please be sure to walk/snowshoe in the flat packed area and not in the ski tracks.

We know that we can’t keep the dogs out of the ski tracks entirely, but if we humans can do our part, it helps! As is the case in all seasons, we ask that you leash your dog when using CPF trails and please clean up after your pets. Please remove all used waste bags from the trail and parking area. CPF properties are carry-in, carry-out.

Safe Winter Recreation Guidelines

• Dress for the weather—wear layers and avoid cotton.

• Tell someone where you are going.

• Choose trails appropriate for your abilities.

Trail Use Disclaimer

By using CPF’s public access trails, you agree to the following liability release and waiver.

I am aware that cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and walking on winter trails is potentially dangerous. I will hike, ski and snowshoe sensibly and I assume all risks associated with the activity including but not limited to injuries caused by slips, contact with other participants, equipment malfunction, getting lost, effects of weather and/or condition of trail, hypothermia, all such risks being known and appreciated, even welcomed, by me. Having read this waiver and knowing these facts, I, for myself and my minor dependents and anyone entitled to act on my behalf, waive and release the Cazenovia Preservation Foundation and FROSTY, or successors from all claims or liabilities arising from my participation in these activities.

Winter Trail Conditions

We’ll repost the Friends of Stoney Pond (FROSTY) trail reports here throughout the season.

Friday January 10, 2025

With skis waxed and shoe straps affixed you've probably been wondering "where are the white crystalline ribbons?" This past week percolating water penetrated the pack preventing the purposeful pursuit of perfect trail prep. Now that the pack has settled, incessant winds and an overnight fresh coating combined to mobilize the corps. Volunteers expediently rolled for miles and miles just in time for your weekend wanderings.

Nordic Pulse describes the details––check again this weekend for updates. Spoiler alert: Gorge Trail and Nelson Swamp Trail are scheduled for Saturday morning treatment.

This weekend's outdoor community highlight is CPF's Snowshoe Sunday. So head on over to Meier's Creek for top-shelf snow, food and beverage.

Conditions should hold strong for the foreseeable future with flakes flying and sustained cold temps throughout the coming week. Anticipate a midweek rolled refresh at Lorenzo, Fairchild Hill and Meier's Creek.

Enjoy the trails––it is now GO-TIME!!

Area venues host a variety of events year-round––check often for updates:

CPF Trails
Lorenzo State Historic Site:  Lorenzo on Facebook
Meier’s Creek Brewing:  Meier's Creek on Facebook
Nelson Swamp Trail:  Nelson Swamp on Facebook
Madison County Distillery:  Madison County Distillery on Facebook
Stoney Pond State Forest:  FROSTY on Facebook
Shoppes at Johnny Appleseed:  Shoppes at Johnny Appleseed on Facebook
Swiss Mountain Farms: Swiss Mountain Farms

Cazenovia calendar:  Caz Life
Hamilton happenings:  This is Hamilton
Madison County Tourism:  Calendar of Events

Links:
Google Maps Trail Locations
Caz Area Detailed Trail Maps
Printable Trail Maps
Weatherlink Stoney Pond State Forest
Wunderground Stoney Pond State Forest

About FROSTY:  Friends of Stoney Pond exists to foster year-round outdoor recreation through its efforts in trail development and maintenance, snow grooming, snowshoe rentals, and advocacy of human-powered trails-based activities.  Equipment and volunteers are made available to local organizations––to assist in the expansion and usability of trail networks on public and private lands.  FROSTY participates in the NYS DEC Volunteer Stewardship program, which enhances use of NYS public lands.  As a registered 501(c)(3) 100% funded by donors, donations are invested in tools, equipment and supplies utilized exclusively on local trail networks.