In New York every season brings great adventures. Springtime thrills range from the fast action of mountain biking and whitewater rafting to world-class golf and fishing.
Spectator sports offer plenty of excitement too, like NASCAR races at Watkins Glen. On Opening Day each April, fans can drive in the tracks of legends like Mario Andretti and Tony Stewart. With baseball season starting, you can take in a Yankees or Mets game in New York City and family-friendly minor league baseball across the state.
There’s still plenty of action on New York mountains after the snow melts. When spring skiing winds down, ski runs become mountain biking trails (the lifts will take you and your bike up). Outfitters lead rock climbing trips in the Adirondacks and Shawangunk Mountains (called the Gunks), as well as whitewater adventures on world-class rapids. Licensed guides around the state provide equipment and instruction.
On April 1 every year, trout season opens at rivers and lakes throughout New York. Anglers flock to the legendary rivers and streams in the Catskills for some of the best trout fishing in the country. Get tips and check out fly-tying programs at the Catskill Fly Fishing Center & Museum.
Known for trophy fishing, the Thousand Islands-Seaway region has some of the world’s largest salmon and trout. The Adirondacks, Finger Lakes, and Montauk's surf are also famous fishing hot spots. Check the Department of Environmental Conservation’s fishing website for tips, regulations and hotline updates. Many local tackle shops can hook you up with a license and a guide.
Golfers of all levels love New York’s fresh manicured greens. Take your pick and tee up. On Long Island, the challenging Black Course at Bethpage State Park hosted the US Open in 2002 and 2009. Saratoga National Golf Club was named one of America's 100 Greatest Public Golf Courses by Golf Digest, and the championship-caliber course at Peek’n Peak Resort in western New York holds the Peek’n Peak Classic Nationwide Tour each June. The award-winning greens at Turning Stone Resort & Casino host the annual PGA tournament. You might slide up to a poker table after you step off the 18th.