Have a Blast Exploring Otsego On your Snowmobile

So Much Snow in New York!

As a southerner, I am absolutely blown-away – almost literally – with the amount of snow that dumps in Otsego County. I’ve learned Nor’easters and lake-effect storms can bring up to 100-inches of snow to this part of the country.

When watching New York weather reports from the relative warmth of my previous life in North Carolina, I was incredulous at how anyone could want to live with this much weather. Now that I am here, I think it’s one of the best things I’ve ever experienced. Of course, I say that as a sedentary who views winter from the warmth of her home.

 

What Does Wintertime Mean to You?

So, what does winter mean to you? Are you the more sedentary-type person, like me? One who simply enjoys the magic of cozying up by the fireplace, where it’s warm and snuggly – peering out into the enchantment that is wintertime? Making S’mores, playing board games, watching old movies or imbibing on warm mulled wine or hot cocoa?

Or would you rather be out there, exploring and getting physical with Old Man Winter?

Perhaps, you are somewhere in between – longing to venture out into the brisk cold air to join in a more serene exploration of the natural beauty that surrounds you… participating in activities such as hiking, cross-country skiing or snowshoeing. And then, returning to the comfy warmth of the fire and wine. If that is where you find your bliss, you will be happy to explore over 335-acres on which our vacation home sits. Traverse over pastures, around the 5-acre private lake, or through the woods over the well-groomed trails.

 

Snow is Fun

 

Cross Country Skiing on the Estate at Fly Creek
A couple of winter lodging guests cross country ski through the well-groomed wooded trails on 335-acres of wintertime bliss

 

I have noticed this, our first year at the Estate at Fly Creek, that a variety of guests travel from far and near to come to our winter wonderland – those who are sedentary, those who are serene and those who are playful. No matter what their excitement-meter level is, everyone has a blast.

And, no matter how each guest chooses to have fun outside, they are equally excited to come back inside. What’s better than easing into a warmly-enveloping heated indoor pool at the end of the day? Or, relaxing in the steam room – allowing that soothing heat to penetrate those cold, and oftentimes tired, bones and muscles?

 

Our Rental Estate is on the Snowmobile Trail

 

snowmobiling trail signs
Clearly-marked directional snowmobiling trail signs start only one-half mile from the Estate at Fly Creek, on Bedbug Hill Rd.

 

Heavy Otsego County snowfall, coupled with over 300-miles of NY trails makes our vacation rental home a snowmobilers’ delight. Whether whizzing through the woods or flying over open countryside. Whether a short jaunt or an hours-long expedition, the trip is enchanting.

Our snowmobiling lodging has direct access to 75-miles of well-marked State Corridor and Secondary trails, which interconnect to miles and miles of trails throughout central and upstate New York. Just link to this Snowtoppers interactive map to see how.

This state interactive trail map  further expands your potential journey.

 

NYSSA Snowmobile trail map for central and upstate new york

 

 

Eateries on the Snowmobile Trail

If you start feeling a little empty while you’re on the trail, we’ve discovered a couple of eateries where you can stop to fill up; though, I suspect more can be found. Please let us know about your discoveries.

  • Genesee Bar and Tap Room – Lake Street Richfield, Just off Trail S70 by the feed mill
  • NY Pizzeria – off S70 and down Division Street to Rt 20
  • Tryon Inn & The Backdoor Bar – Just off C7F in Cherry Valley

Saving the best for last, we found the ultimate Sunday breakfast opportunity! Breakfast in the Sap House at Stone House Farm in Sharon Springs. From 8am til 1pm, all you can eat pancakes, waffles, sausage and beverage. What a perfect meal to cap off your weekend of snowmobiling. Only $7 ($3 for kids). This is the perfect opportunity to see how maple syrup is made and to buy something maple-special to commemorate your weekend.

 

Resources to Plan the Perfect Winter Getaway

In order to make sure whether is perfect for your winter getaway, check out accurate real time CNY snow radar info from the local National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) radar station.

If you need to register your out-of-state snowmobile, you can do it easily online.

We’ve found a local source to rent cross-country skis or snowshoes. Mt. Otsego Ski Shop. They don’t have a website. But, you can call them at 607-547-2203. Their hours are variable. So, give yourself a little time to make arrangements. The charge is $15 for the day for either skis or snowshoes. Their address is 217 Co Rd 52, Cooperstown, NY 13326.

 

You will have a spectacularly amazing winter getaway at the Estate at Fly Creek. The property is huge, both inside and out. With eight gorgeous bedrooms, all with private en suite bathrooms, this is the perfect venue for a few friends, with families, to spend time together playing in the snow then gathering together to warm up by the fire.

We hope to see you while the snow is still here. Please check out our website to learn more or call 607-547-5216.

Bobbi Parke

Bobbi Parke is one of the estate's caretakers and guest hosts. She and hubby spend much of their time readying the house for guests, keeping the property in tip-top condition and caring for the chickens and alpacas. They know they've done a good job when they witness the look of the joy in their guests' faces.

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