Winter in Lockport- Day trip

Possible activities: winery, lunch, hiking, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, firepit, photography, bird watching, sledding, snowman building, other winter shenanigans

If you live in WNY, you have to take advantage of the outdoors whenever the sun pokes its head out or you’ll be locked inside for way too long. And, who hasn’t discovered that being stuck inside for too long stinks! Here is a great winter day trip to try in Niagara County.

Our trip included snow. There had just been a winter storm the day prior and it was the kind where the snow sticks to the trees; perfect for a snowman. Needing some scenery and a glass of wine, we headed out to Lockport.

Things to toss in your car

• hat, scarf, gloves, winter boots
• a blanket, snacks and water just in case
• a camera or binoculars if you have them
• snowshoes, cross-country skis or a sled if you have any of these items

Spring Lake Winery

When you pull in the parking lot facing Spring Lake Winery, look to the left. There are trails for hiking, strolling, cross-country skiing, photography and bird watching. No need to ask permission; you are welcome to use any of the five trails while the winery is open. While on the trails, post a photo on FB or Instagram. You’ll have a chance to win a bottle of wine! We didn’t win, but we gave it a shot. Our hike was breathtakingly beautiful, and the quiet walk in the woods is just what we needed after an interesting 2020 holiday.

After our solitude on the “woods trail,” we went into the tasting room for a bite to eat and a Cabernet.  The Cabernet had soft tones with a long finish.  For JT it was a nice compliment with his tomato and red-pepper bisque. Dra went with the gluten-free turkey wrap and it was delicious! The Zinfandel was nice and she suggests trying it with your next pizza.  We were told that the mushroom bisque is the best and that the most popular wines are the Zia Minx and the Sauvignon Blanc. We followed lunch with a Syrah -dry, full-bodied.  We had to buy a bottle!

Spring Lake’s atmosphere is tastefully decorated, and they have a TV screen for those who need to see the game. The staff are very kind and efficient. There is an outdoor fire pit for those who prefer to sit outdoors, and rumor has it you can make a few S’mores while you are there. (Here’s where you may want to grab your blanket!) Check out their website to learn about fun weekends coming up, wedding options, a cabin rental and more! They are planning many events in hopes of a good 2021. http://www.springlakewinery.com

Sledding

On your drive home, consider joining the sledding fun at the golf course on Chestnut Ridge Road (Route 31). Everyone had a blast, even Dra who’s not a big fan of climbing hills!

Box Score for Spring Lake Winery

• Cabernet -Triple
• Zinfandel – Double
• Syrah – Home Run
• Food – Home Run

Spring Lake Winery, 7373 Rochester Road, Lockport, NY 716.439.5253 https://springlakewinery.com