If you love snowshoeing, you may want to consider visiting New York's Thousand Islands Region. The area is home to architectural wonders, great winter festivals and miles of snowshoeing trails. With that said, here's a brief look at a few of my favorite snowshoeing destinations:

Whetstone Gulf State Park

Lewis County's Whetstone Gulf State Park features miles of snowshoeing trails, picnic areas, waterfalls, heated restrooms and opportunities for snowmobiling. The park also has a lookout tower. Snowshoe rentals are not available onsite. Hence, visitors should plan accordingly. Experienced snowshoers may want to consider exploring the 5.6 mile long Gorge Loop. It offers superlative views. The park's vehicle entry fees and hours of operation vary. The Maple Ridge Snow Park is also located nearby. It's a great place to go snow tubing with the family.

Higley Flow State Park

St. Lawrence County's Higley Flow State Park features more than 7 miles of snowshoeing trails, restrooms and picnic areas. Regrettably, there are no snowshoe rentals available onsite. Snowshoers may want to consider investigating the 2.57 mile long Warm Brook Trail and the 3.42 mile long Cedar Brook Trail. Park highlights include views of the Warm Brook Flow, the Higley Flow and the Raquette River. The park's winter hours of operation and vehicle entry fees vary. Lodging and dining opportunities are located nearby in Potsdam.

Wellesley Island State Park

Jefferson County's Wellesley Island State Park features more than 7 miles of snowshoeing trails, year round cabin rentals and an onsite nature center. Bird watchers should consider exploring the Eel Bay Trail. It often offers opportunities to catch a glimpse of bald eagles. Other routes to consider investigating are the Narrows Trail and the South Bay Trail. The park traditionally opens at dawn. Visitors should plan on bringing their own snowshoes and sundries.

Robert G. Wehle State Park

Robert G. Wehle State Park is also located in Jefferson County. It features more than 10 miles of trails and picnic areas. Snowshoers may want to consider investigating the .64 mile long Bobo Link. It leads to the Henderson Shores State Unique Area. Other routes to consider exploring include the 1.87 mile long Dancing Gypsy Trail and the 4.90 mile long Snakefoot Trail. Both offer great scenery. While on the trails, snowshoers should make it a point to look for the remnants of military fortifications as well. Although the park tends to open daily, its hours of operation are variable. There are no snowshoe rentals available. Therefore, visitor should bring their own supplies.

Killeen Gonzalez enjoys winter sports and recreation with her family. She has also traveled extensively.

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New York’s Thousand Islands Region: Where to Go Snowshoeing