Snow Guide

Prepare for an unforgettable snow day in Central Park! Our Snow Guide has all the essential details for your upcoming snowy adventure.

Thank you for supporting the Conservancy staff as they clear the Park during snowstorms to keep it accessible. Be sure to give them space as they shovel and operate snow plows, and please be gentle around the Park's trees and landscapes. Head to our Alerts page for updates about Park closures.

Sledding

Grab your sled and enjoy a fresh layer of snow on the slopes of Central Park. We recommend Pilgrim Hill, Cedar Hill, and the Great Hill, for sledding. Our staff opens these landscapes when there is at least six inches of snow and conditions allow. Dress warmly, be gentle on the landscapes, and let gravity do the rest!

Ice Skating

Surrounded by towering evergreens and tulip poplars—not to mention the City skyline—you'll feel like you're stepping into a life-size snow globe at Wollman Rink. The famed rink offers skate and locker rentals, and hours and ticket prices vary. You can also bring your own skates to Conservatory Water, which opens for free ice skating when the ice is at least six inches thick.

Snowshoeing and cross-country skiing

The best places to snowshoe and ski are Sheep Meadow, the Great Lawn, and other large meadows in Central Park. In addition to these trekking spots, snowshoers and skiers can hit the trails of the bridle path, which the Conservancy leaves snow-covered in the winter to protect its soft surface. Please note that snowfall must be over six inches.

Building Snowpeople

The Park is already filled with beautiful landscapes and architecture—all that's missing is your snowy sculpture! The next time it snows over six inches and conditions permit (are you sensing a theme here?), head out with your friends, family, or on your own for this classic snow-day activity. Smiley faces and acorn eyes encouraged.