Grab Wool Socks for This Hike in New York That’s 100% Worth Braving the Cold

For those who love winter hiking, one of the best parts is that a hike can become a completely different adventure once the snow starts falling. That's the case in New York, where our beautiful state parks and mountains turn into winter wonderlands each year. Upstate is full of these spectacular locations, of course, but if you're a city resident like me, you don't even have to go that far. Only about an hour outside of the city, you'll find Harriman State Park, home to the stunning Bear Mountain. The park is full of hiking trails - over 200, in fact - and one of our favorites is the Silver Mine Lake Loop. A moderate, 3.6-mile trail, it's a relaxing hike in the spring and summer and a grand snowshoeing adventure in the winter. Those snow-capped peaks are well worth the added effort, so we recommend getting wool socks on and returning to this incredible destination this winter. Once you see the pictures, we bet you'll agree.

Silver Mine Lake is one of the most beautiful hikes in New York, and there's no more stunning view than from its banks when the entire area is capped with fresh winter snow. Harriman State Park is open year-round, but if you want to see this area at its best, we have a hike for you.

The Silver Mine Lake Loop Trail is a roughly two-hour adventure, so it's a great day hike. With an elevation gain of 616 feet, you can expect some challenging and rough terrain, but the trail is well-maintained and ideal for semi-experienced hikers.

Harriman State Park is a lot less crowded during the winter, which makes it an amazing time to spot wildlife in the area. Dogs are welcome on this trail but must be kept on a leash throughout.

This trail has a little bit for everyone - beautiful natural terrain, water views, and historic buildings all built into a hike that's easy to do as part of a day in the area. Make sure you have your proper snow hiking gear, but this is the type of hike that even if you've done it, it's worth returning to in the winter.

Have you explored the Silver Mine Lake Loop in winter? If not, find your best hiking buddy and tell them about this article because this is definitely an adventure best enjoyed with company. You can see more pictures of the trail on the AllTrails trail listing, and check out the Harriman State Park website for more information on access, hours, and parking. You can get our favorite Adult's Cresta Wool Lightweight Hiking Socks on the L. L. Bean website, and once you're done with your hiking adventure, why not de-stress with some fun at Palisades Center, one of the best malls in America?