Ski Areas

Hunter Mountain. The sprawling Hunter Mountain has 58 trails on 240 acres, where you may ski, snowboard, snow tube, and snowshoe. In the Catskill Forest Preserve, Hunter has full snowmaking capability—a definite boon when natural conditions are less than optimal. The 3,200-foot peak offers a 1,600-foot vertical drop; 11 lifts move you up the slope. About 60 percent of the trails are for beginner or intermediate skiers, while the rest are geared toward experts. Full-day lift tickets with equipment rentals and group lessons are $79. From May to early October, mountain bikers take over. The single-track trails run through dense forest and cross streams, and a lift transports bikers to the summit. Fly-fishing instruction and guidance also are available. Throughout summer and fall, music and food festivals are held here. 64 Klein Ave., off Rte. 23A, Hunter, New York, 12442. 518/263–4223; www.huntermtn.com.

Mountain Trails Cross Country Ski Center. You can cross-country ski over these 21 miles of groomed, wooded trails at the beginner, intermediate, or expert level, secure in the knowledge that the National Ski Patrol is on the beat. The lodge has a snack bar and rents snowshoes, cross-country skis, and sleds. 6198 Main St., Tannersville, New York, 12485. 518/589–5361; www.mtntrails.com. $20.