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Winter in the Pocono Mountains is pure magic. This Pennsylvania treasure turns into a snowy paradise with activities for everyone—from thrilling ski slopes to peaceful, snow-covered trails. Whether you’re seeking adventure or a cozy retreat, the Poconos is the ultimate winter getaway. Here’s your guide to where to go, when to go, and why this winter wonderland should be on your list. Book a stay of two nights or more to double the fun with perks like lift tickets, snow tubing, and access to the Aquatopia Indoor Waterpark.

Key Takeaways

Top Activities: Skiing, tubing, snowshoeing, and ice skating are just a few ways to enjoy the Poconos in winter.
Best Time to Visit: Late December to early March is peak snow season for winter sports and activities.
Family-Friendly Fun: The Poconos is perfect for families, offering everything from kid-friendly slopes to snow tubing.
Scenic Beauty: Snow-covered landscapes make for stunning views and photo opportunities.
Plan Ahead: Book accommodations early, dress for the cold, and look for activity packages to save money.

Cold Weather Adventures in the Poconos

Skiing, Snowboarding, and Snow Tubing Adventures

Camelback Mountain Resort: As one of the premier ski resorts in the Poconos, Camelback boasts 39 trails, ranging from gentle beginner slopes to challenging black diamonds. Night skiing adds an extra layer of excitement, while their snow-making technology ensures excellent conditions throughout the season. Beyond skiing, Camelback offers mountain adventures like zip lining, all-terrain vehicle tours, and a year-round indoor waterpark, making it a destination that goes far beyond winter sports.
With 42 lightning-fast lanes, Camelback’s snow tubing park is one of the largest in the country. Galactic Snow Tubing turns nighttime tubing into a dazzling experience with neon lights and music. Guests staying at Camelback’s resort enjoy perks like discounted tubing passes and priority access, making it easy to maximize the fun.

Blue Mountain Resort: Known for Pennsylvania’s highest vertical drop of over 1,000 feet, Blue Mountain is a must-visit for thrill-seekers. The resort offers 40 trails and five terrain parks, catering to skiers and snowboarders looking for diverse challenges.
Blue Mountain’s snow tubing park, with up to 46 lanes, is also a highlight for families and non-skiers. Blue Mountain’s tubing park offers over 1,000 feet of thrilling downhill fun. With family-friendly lanes and a conveyor lift to whisk you back to the top, it’s perfect for kids and adults alike. For an added twist, try group tubing for a collaborative downhill race.
Shawnee Mountain: This family-friendly resort is ideal for beginners and casual skiers. Shawnee offers 23 trails, all carefully groomed, and excellent ski school programs for kids and adults alike. Affordable lift tickets and rental packages make it an attractive option for those just starting out.

Cross-Country Skiing and Snowshoeing

Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area: This serene area offers over 100 miles of trails, many of which transform into snowy paths perfect for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing during the winter months. Glide through quiet forests, past frozen streams, and alongside breathtaking waterfalls. Popular trails like the McDade Recreational Trail provide varied terrain for both beginners and experienced adventurers. The tranquility and pristine beauty of this area make it a peaceful escape into nature, far from crowded ski resorts.
Promised Land State Park: Nestled in the Lake Region of the Poconos, Promised Land State Park is a haven for winter sports enthusiasts. The park features multiple groomed trails specifically designed for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Trails wind through snow-draped forests and open spaces that are home to abundant wildlife. Visitors often spot deer, red foxes, and even bald eagles soaring above. For an extra adventure, explore the park’s two lakes, Promised Land Lake and Lower Lake, which offer picturesque frozen landscapes. The park also provides trail maps and resources to help you plan your outing, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience.

Ice Skating and Frozen Adventures

Skytop Lodge: The outdoor skating rink at Skytop Lodge is framed by breathtaking mountain views, making it a picture-perfect winter activity. After skating, warm up with hot cocoa by the lodge’s roaring fireplace.
Lake Wallenpaupack: When the lake freezes over, it becomes a haven for ice skating and ice fishing. Visitors can also explore nearby attractions like Kalahari Resorts or Great Wolf Lodge, both featuring massive indoor waterparks for year-round fun.

Warm Weather Adventures in the Poconos

Water Sports and Lakeside Fun

Lake Wallenpaupack: This expansive 13-mile-long lake is a summer paradise, offering activities like kayaking, paddleboarding, water skiing, and jet skiing. Visitors can rent a pontoon or speedboat from local marinas to explore the lake's hidden coves and islands. Anglers will find abundant fishing opportunities for species like bass, walleye, and trout. After a day on the water, relax at one of the sandy beaches or dine at lakeside restaurants with stunning views.
Delaware River: Flowing through the Delaware Water Gap, this river offers a mix of calm waters for beginners and thrilling rapids for adventure seekers. Canoeing, tubing, and kayaking are popular activities, with several outfitters providing equipment and guided tours. These tours often highlight the area’s rich history, including stories of Native American heritage and colonial settlements, as well as showcasing local wildlife like bald eagles and river otters.

Hiking and Biking Trails

Bushkill Falls: Dubbed the “Niagara of Pennsylvania,” this privately-owned park features eight waterfalls connected by well-marked trails. The paths range from easy strolls to challenging hikes that reward visitors with breathtaking views of cascading water. Families can enjoy the park's picnic areas, gemstone mining activities for kids, and a nature museum that provides insight into local flora and fauna.
Lehigh Gorge State Park: This outdoor gem features dramatic scenery, including towering cliffs, lush greenery, and roaring waterfalls. The Lehigh Gorge Trail is a 26-mile path perfect for biking and hiking, offering views of the Lehigh River. For thrill-seekers, the park also hosts whitewater rafting experiences ranging from family-friendly trips to adrenaline-pumping adventures through Class III rapids.

Ziplining and Adventure Parks

Camelback Mountain Adventures: Beyond its winter fame, Camelback transforms into an adventure hub in warmer months. The park boasts one of the longest zipline tours in the region, stretching over 4,000 feet and offering stunning aerial views. The mountain coaster, which twists and turns through the forest, provides a unique combination of thrills and scenery. Additionally, the treetop adventure courses feature rope bridges, cargo nets, and ziplines that cater to various skill levels.
Pocono TreeVentures: This aerial adventure park includes over 90 elements, such as rope swings, tightropes, and zip lines, making it a favorite for families and groups. Beginners and experts alike can find courses suited to their abilities. Nighttime ziplining events, lit by string lights and lanterns, offer a magical twist on the adventure.

Golf and Relaxation

Skytop Lodge Golf Course: Nestled within the scenic Skytop Lodge property, this 18-hole championship course combines challenging play with breathtaking mountain vistas. Golfers can take lessons from on-site PGA professionals or relax at the clubhouse with a drink. The course also hosts special events and tournaments throughout the season.
The Lodge at Woodloch: This luxury spa resort is the epitome of relaxation. Guests can participate in guided meditation, forest bathing, and yoga classes, or indulge in hydrotherapy and custom spa treatments. The on-site restaurant offers farm-to-table cuisine made with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. Outdoor enthusiasts can also enjoy walking trails and kayak rentals on the resort’s private lake.

Family-Friendly Attractions

Claws ‘N’ Paws Wild Animal Park: A hidden gem for families, this wildlife park allows kids to interact with animals like kangaroos, giraffes, and tortoises. The petting zoo and feeding stations provide hands-on experiences, while educational shows teach visitors about animal behavior and conservation.
Kalahari Resorts: Known for its massive indoor waterpark, Kalahari is a year-round destination with something for everyone. In addition to wave pools, waterslides, and lazy rivers, the resort features arcade games, escape rooms, and mini-golf. Adults can unwind at the spa or enjoy dining options ranging from casual eateries to upscale restaurants.

Camping and Nature Escapes

Promised Land State Park: Located in the Lake Region, this park offers both modern cabins and rustic campsites surrounded by nature. Spend your days paddling on Promised Land Lake, hiking trails through towering pine forests, or fishing for trout in crystal-clear streams. Evening ranger programs provide family-friendly entertainment and education about local wildlife.
Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area: Spanning over 70,000 acres, this area features everything from riverside campsites to backcountry tenting. The iconic Mount Tammany hike offers sweeping views of the Delaware River, while other trails wind through wildflower meadows and past ancient rock formations. Water activities like fishing, kayaking, and swimming add to the appeal.
Tobyhanna State Park: A quiet retreat, this park centers around its 170-acre lake, ideal for kayaking, fishing, and swimming. Shaded campsites offer a peaceful escape, and trails through the surrounding forests provide opportunities for wildlife spotting. Birdwatchers will particularly enjoy the chance to see species like great blue herons and woodpeckers.
Francis E. Walter Dam: This lesser-known spot combines outdoor recreation with stunning scenery. Visitors can camp for free along the shores of the reservoir, fish for bass and walleye, or hike trails that offer panoramic views of the Pocono Mountains. It’s an excellent destination for budget-conscious adventurers.

Overall Tips for Visiting the Poconos

Plan for the Season: Research the best activities based on the time of year. Summer and winter offer completely different experiences, so pack accordingly.
Book Accommodations Early: Resorts, cabins, and campsites fill quickly during peak seasons. Secure your spot months in advance, especially for popular destinations.
Dress in Layers: The weather in the Poconos can be unpredictable. Bring layers for cooler evenings, even in the summer, and proper winter gear for snow activities.
Leverage Package Deals: Many resorts offer activity bundles, including lift tickets, tubing, or spa treatments. Look for discounts to save money.
Stay Hydrated and Energized: Whether hiking in the summer or skiing in the winter, outdoor activities can be demanding. Bring water and snacks to stay fueled.
Explore Off the Beaten Path: Popular spots like Camelback and Lake Wallenpaupack are great, but don’t miss quieter destinations like Tobyhanna State Park or Francis E. Walter Dam.
Check Weather and Trail Conditions: Especially for outdoor activities like hiking or whitewater rafting, ensure that conditions are safe and trails are open.
Take Advantage of Guided Tours: From fishing trips to wildlife walks, guided activities provide unique insights and a deeper connection to the area.
Bring Your Pet: The Poconos is pet-friendly! Many parks, trails, and even some accommodations welcome pets, so your furry friend can join the adventure.
Allow for Downtime: With so much to do, it’s easy to pack your itinerary. Don’t forget to schedule some relaxation, whether it’s lounging by the lake or enjoying a spa day.

Final Thoughts

The Pocono Mountains offer something special no matter the time of year. From snowy winter adventures to sun-soaked summer escapes, this region is packed with unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re zipping through the treetops, paddling on a pristine lake, or simply relaxing by a campfire, the Poconos promise a perfect getaway for every traveler. Start planning your next adventure today!

FAQs

Q: Are there beaches in the Poconos?
A: Yes, many lakes, including Lake Wallenpaupack and Beltzville Lake, have sandy beaches perfect for sunbathing and swimming.

Q: What are the best winter activities in the Poconos?
A: Skiing, snowboarding, snow tubing, and ice skating are winter highlights. Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are also great for nature lovers.

Q: Are pets allowed at outdoor attractions?
A: Many parks and trails are pet-friendly, but it’s always a good idea to check specific policies before you go.

Q: Can I visit the Poconos on a budget?
A: Absolutely! Camping, picnicking, and visiting state parks are affordable ways to enjoy the area. Off-season deals are also available.

Q: Is the Poconos crowded during peak seasons?
A: While popular destinations can be busy, visiting on weekdays or early in the morning can help you avoid crowds.

Explore the Winter Magic of the Pocono Mountains in Pennsylvania