Up and Out! Snowshoeing and Cross Country Skiing at Moreau Lake State Park

Winter is upon us, and the snow that is all around can either depress us or enliven us.  Choose to be enlivened and get up and out and enjoy the cold and snow!  One of the best spots to take on a winter adventure is Moreau Lake State Park.  Easy access to the Northway exit 17 makes this destination super convenient, and easy to get to from anywhere. 

Moreau Lake State Park
Nearest Town: South Glens Falls
Upwards of 30 miles of trails

General description:
Moreau Lake is a glacial kettle lake that is surrounded by bluffs and the Palmertown Ridge to the West.  The campgrounds and beach area can be crowded in the summer, but in the wintertime, you’ve got the place practically to yourself.   Now frozen, one can traverse across the lake with ease, or choose from the extensive trail network around the main lake and up to Mud Pond to the north.  This park is big; there is plenty to discover here.

Activities:
At this park there is cross country skiing and snowshoeing on the basic trail network that surrounds the lake and through the camping areas.  Ice fishing is popular on the lake.  Those seeking high adventure can travel further up into the Palmertown Range that lies north and west of the main park.  This area involves a steep ascent to a high plateau with north views out onto the Hudson River flowing out of Corinth.  This area is for experienced snowshoers and telemark skiers only, as the return descent will challenge even the best! 

Difficulty:
Easy skiing and snowshoeing around the campground roads; intermediate on the trails up to Mud Pond; expert on the trails up the Palmertown Ridge.  A trail map is available at the camp store.  Snowshoes are also available for rent.  Use caution and don’t exceed your own capabilities.

Surface:
The lake area trails are generally wide and open trails, or the snow covered roads that lead to the campsites.   Trails up to the ridge are steep and narrow, and recommended for experts only.   Underneath that snow may be loose gravel, rocks and other obstacles (snowsnakes). Avoid the lake surface during the spring thaw.

Rentals:
Yes, Snowshoes for $5 fee.

What you may see:
This is a beautiful setting for any wintertime activity.  The frozen lake surrounded by hills creates an idyllic setting.  Bird life is ample and active; you will see tracks of deer, raccoon, fox, squirrel, and if you are quiet, you may see some of these critters scurrying about.
How to get there:
From I-87 take Exit 17S which will put you onto Rte. 9 South; look for Old Saratoga Rd. just off the highway bridge on the R.   Travel about .5 mile and turn R. into the park entrance, go through the gate and park on the R. 

Cautions:
Know your own limitations. Dress warmly and bring hydration.  Don’t go further than your stamina can provide for a return trip.  Upland trails to the Palmertown Ridge are wilderness in character.  Be prepared for anything.  Be safe, travel with a buddy.


Season-Hours-Fees-Parking:
Open year round for a variety of activities, but only during daylight hours. There are no fees and there is plenty of parking.   

Facilities:
You can find a porta-john at the north end of the parking lot.  Aside from the ranger headquarters at the entrance, all the buildings in the campground are closed

What we found:
This is a great resource and park for winter use. It is pretty, generally quiet and we found many friendly people along the trails all willing to discuss snowshoeing and skiing, as well as what a beautiful day it was to be out there. The snow was fresh and wonderful to ski upon.  There is a map of the trail system at the headquarters for a $2 fee.  It will help you find you way around the extensive trail network.