As a North Country native who’s spent countless winters in Potsdam, NY, I can tell you that there’s something magical about how campus transforms when the snow starts to fall. Clarkson transforms into a winter wonderland that never gets old, no matter how many years you’ve been here. Whether you’re looking to embrace the winter head-on or find a warm corner to hibernate, Potsdam has something for everyone. Just make sure you’ve got a good winter coat, some warm boots, and a sense of adventure—you’ll need all three to truly appreciate a North Country winter.
Outdoor Activities
Clarkson University Outing Club
The Clarkson University Outing Club (CUOC) is your ticket to winter excitement, no matter your skill level. Imagine yourself gliding across backcountry trails, conquering ice-climbing routes, or exploring snow-covered landscapes. Whether you’re new to winter sports or a seasoned adventurer, CUOC has got you covered. They’re not just a club—they’re your gateway to North Country winter experiences. The best part? You can borrow all the equipment you need to embrace the outdoors, so there are no excuses for staying indoors. CUOC hosts events throughout the academic year and club members can borrow the equipment needed to safely enjoy winter activities.
Cold Out, Gold Out: Clarkson’s Winter Celebration
Get ready for the ultimate winter weekend that’s pure Clarkson spirit! Cold Out, Gold Out (COGO) is more than just an event—it’s a tradition that brings the entire campus to life. Every winter, Clarkson spends a weekend celebrating with hockey games, ice carving, ice skating, and fireworks.
Embrace Your Inner Snow Artist
Never built a snowman? First-time snow explorer? No problem! The North Country winters are your canvas. Grab some friends, head outside, and let your creativity run wild. Whether you’re crafting the world’s most ridiculous snowman or engaging in a snowball fight, there’s something fun about playing in the snow.
Diesel Sled SPEED Team
For those who like their winter adventures with an extra dose of adrenaline, the Diesel Sled SPEED team takes winter excitement to a whole new level. Part of Clarkson’s SPEED (Student Projects for Engineering Experience and Design) program, this passionate group of undergraduate and graduate students is reimagining snowmobile technology with the goal of creating cleaner, quieter, and more fuel-efficient snowmobiles. While predominantly composed of mechanical engineering students, the team welcomes anyone with a passion for design, mechanics, and collaborative problem-solving.
Indoor Activities
Hockey
Hockey is more than just a sport at Clarkson—it’s a campus tradition with the men’s or women’s teams playing most weekends. The student section is always packed, with the PEP band providing a thunderous soundtrack to every game. Whether it’s with the men’s or women’s team taking the ice, you’re guaranteed an unforgettable experience. Pro tip: bring an extra layer and your loudest voice—you’ll need both to fully embrace the Clarkson hockey tradition. It can be chilly in the arena, but not as cold (or snowy!) as the North Country winter outside.
Music and Theater
Clarkson has several student-run musical groups, like the Clarkson University Orchestra and Jazz Ensemble, that students can join or attend performances for. The Clarkson Theatre Company is a student-run theatre company that puts on multiple shows every academic year. Whether you want to get on stage and act, or just enjoy the show and support your fellow students, you are sure to have fun. SUNY Potsdam‘s proximity also means access to additional performances for a variety of art forms like dance, music, and theater, effectively doubling your entertainment options. Between both campuses, you’ll find regular concerts, plays, and artistic showcases that help keep the winter interesting while supporting local talent.
Movie Night
Need a break from campus? The Roxy Theater in downtown Potsdam provides a convenient escape. Catch the latest films, share some popcorn with friends, and enjoy a classic movie night experience. It’s a simple but enjoyable way to spend an evening away from academic pressures.
Ice Skating
Cheel Arena offers open skating sessions on Sundays (7:00pm to 8:00pm) and Tuesdays (9:00pm to 9:45pm). Whether you’re a skilled skater or a complete beginner, it’s a fun way to get some exercise and enjoy a quintessential winter activity without leaving campus.
Clarkson Ignite: Maker Spaces
For the innovators and creators, Clarkson’s maker spaces are a hidden gem. The Dorf Makerspace boasts 3D printers and laser cutters, while the Maker’s Loft provides tools for coding and digital design. The Cube offers resources for entrepreneurial projects. These spaces are more than just a warm retreat—they’re incubators for creativity and innovation.
The North Country winter isn’t something to hide from—it’s an opportunity to explore, challenge yourself, and create lasting memories. Whether you’re building a snowman for the first time or racing across snow-covered trails, these experiences are more than just ways to pass the time. They’re chances to build skills, make friends, and discover parts of yourself you never knew existed. From hockey’s roaring crowds to the quiet hum of 3D printers, Clarkson proves that winter isn’t about enduring the cold—it’s about finding engaging ways to make the most of the season. These activities offer something for everyone, ensuring that campus life remains interesting, even when the temperature drops.