Snowshoeing and cross-country skiing gives you a unique opportunity to experience the isolated and wild areas of Duke Farms. It doesn’t take a lot of skill to learn snowshoeing and it can be mastered in just a short time. So what are you waiting for? Visit your local sporting goods store to check out equipment, then wait for the next snowstorm!

When it snows more than 4 inches, Duke Farms is a prime location for snowshoeing. Before you come, call our front desk at 908-722-3700 ext. 2 to find out if the trails are open.

Here are some tips to make your snowshoeing and cross-country skiing experience enjoyable and safe:

• Be prepared. Dress appropriately and always bring a phone, a map and a gps if you have one. Even though New Jersey is the most densely populated state in the nation, you can still get very lost!
• Your local sporting goods store can guide you on equipment you need. You shouldn’t need a special pair of boots or clothing for snow shoeing (cross-country skiing requires special boots). As long as they are appropriate for low temperatures and snow, you may already have these items.
• Don’t forget sunscreen and sunglasses.
• Snowshoeing and cross-country skiing is quite a workout – don’t forget food and water to refuel. Remember that in the winter you may not perspire as much but you still need to replace fluids.
• Start on a level path until you get accustomed to equipment.
• It is much easier to ascend inclines at a 45 degree angle rather than straight across.
• If you are snowshoeing avoid walking on prepared cross country ski tracks. These railway like tracks are damaged by walking on them.
• Take a slow stroll and be in touch with nature. Snowshoeing and cross-country skiing allows you to almost silently experience the tranquility of the snow muffled habitats. You will see wildlife you would never see crunching through leaves in the fall.
• Fresh snow is a great time to explore wildlife tracks. Duke Farms is home to hundreds of species of animals – you never know what kind of critter print you will find!
• Have fun exploring Duke Farms!