Written By Eric Russ
The Poconos region transforms into a winter wonderland with a variety of activities for visitors and locals. From skiing to snowmobiling, there's something for everyone in this picturesque area. In this article, we'll explore the top winter activities in the Poconos, including both outdoor adventures and indoor escapes. Whether you're seeking an adrenaline-pumping excursion or a more relaxed experience, the Poconos have it all. So pack your bags, grab a warm coat, and get ready to experience the beauty of the Poconos in winter.
Skiing: Sliding Down the Slopes in the Poconos
The Poconos are a winter playground with a variety of thrilling activities to enjoy, including skiing. The region offers many fantastic ski resorts, each with its unique features.
Camelback Resort in Tannersville PA boasts 39 trails, 100% snowmaking, night skiing and riding, and live entertainment. The resort also has a large beginner terrain, award-winning instructional programs, and the largest snow tubing park in the USA.
Jack Frost and Big Boulder ski resorts are a two-for-one destination with 35 trails between the two mountains, including 20 at Jack Frost. Both beginner and expert skiers will find their ideal experience, with Jack Frost offering expert ski terrain and Big Boulder featuring five terrain parks. The resorts also provide a learning center for private skiing and snowboarding lessons, as well as three-hour tubing sessions.
Blue Mountain Resort in Palmerton offers something for everyone, with 14 beginner trails, five terrain parks for snowboarders, and Pennsylvania’s highest vertical drop of 1,082 feet on Razor's Edge. Book a group lesson for skiing or snowboarding and receive instruction from experienced instructors. With 46 lanes, Blue Mountain's snow tubing park is now the largest in the country and offers after-dark Sonic Tubing with music and lighting. Visitors can also enjoy outdoor dining areas with string lights, fireplaces, and on-site food trucks.
Snowmobile: Season, Requirements, and Trail Recommendations
Snowmobiling is a must-do activity when visiting the Poconos in winter, offering a thrilling way to explore the stunning mountain landscape. The snowmobile season starts in late December and runs through April 1, ensuring ample snow for an enjoyable experience on the trails.
To operate a snowmobile in the Poconos, you must have a valid driver’s license, proof of snowmobile registration and insurance, and wear a helmet while operating. Additional requirements may apply when renting from an outside company, so be sure to check their policy before booking.
The Poconos have an extensive snowmobile trail system with options for riders of all skill levels. State parks in the area offer well-maintained trails for a scenic ride through the mountain landscape. Lehigh Gorge State Park Trail provides a 15-mile stretch between White Haven and Penn Haven Junction, Promised Land State Park Trail has a 23-mile-long trail groomed daily, and Hickory Run State Park Trail has a 21-mile trail marked with bright orange cones. Choose a trail based on your skill level and comfort, as there are both long and short trails available.
Snowshoeing: Winter Adventure through the Woods
Snowshoeing is a serene and peaceful activity that allows you to experience the winter forest from a unique perspective. In the Poconos, there are several notable locations for snowshoeing, each offering their own special features and natural beauty.
Delaware State Forest is a destination for snowshoeing, weather and conditions permitting. Bruce Lake is the district's snowshoe trail prospect, with the focus being on no-motorized, non-equine and non-bicycle travel. These trails are not groomed, offering snowshoe enthusiasts the chance to experience the forest's beauty on a marked trail system.
Promised Land State Park, located in Greentown, offers a winter wonderland with approximately 50 miles of hiking trails. With the surrounding Delaware State Forest, there are ample opportunities to explore and immerse oneself in the serene beauty of the winter forest. The Bruce Lake Natural Area within the park is a popular spot for snowshoeing, where non-motorized, non-equine, and non-bicycle travel are emphasized. Visitors can experience the beauty of the forest on a marked trail system, which is not groomed and offers an adventure for snowshoe enthusiasts. On loan from the park office, snowshoes are available with a photo ID from Monday to Friday when there is six inches or more of snow. Check the park's website and the Winter Report for current snow depth information.
Hickory Run State Park in White Haven is a wonderful destination for snowshoeing, with over 40 miles of hiking trails to explore. Visitors can enjoy expansive views of the Pocono Mountains and the Lehigh River while visiting the fire tower and stream-side trails.
For beginner snowsho*rs, the Pinchot Trail at Pinchot State Forest is an ideal destination. The south loop of the Pinchot Trail is a fairly easy path that is perfect for snowshoeing and offers a diverse range of scenery.
Winter Hiking: Enjoy the Outdoors and Get Some Exercise
Winter hiking offers a unique and beautiful perspective of the Poconos. The crisp mountain air, snow-covered landscapes, and peaceful surroundings make for a serene and invigorating outdoor experience. However, it is important to be prepared for the colder weather and to take necessary precautions for your safety. When hitting the trails, make sure to dress in layers, including a warm jacket, hat, and gloves. Wear fluorescent orange for visibility and sturdy boots for traction on the snow-covered terrain. Hiking sticks can also be useful for added stability. Don't forget to bring water, snacks, and a map to help guide you on your journey. It is also recommended to hike with a buddy and let someone know your hiking plans, including the trail you will be on and the expected time of your return.
With its stunning winter landscapes, the 52-acre Fieldstone Farm Tank Creek Nature Preserve is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and hikers alike. In winter, visitors can enjoy the snow-covered ponds, hillside springs and wetlands, and the remains of an old stone farmhouse. The preserve's breathtaking view of Paradise Valley and the Delaware Water Gap beyond, combined with its diverse habitats, makes it a winter wonderland for both wildlife and visitors. Make sure to dress warmly and bring your best winter gear, as the fresh mountain air will provide a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Bear Creek Nature Preserve in Wilkes-Barre is a winter gem for those who are short on time but don't want to miss out on the winter waterfall experience. The preserve features stunning Buttermilk Falls (also known as Bear Creek Falls), which is only 200 feet from the parking area and easily accessible from the roadway. With its step-like shelves of rock, the roughly 30-foot falls make for an impressive sight that can be enjoyed in a short amount of time. If you're looking for an easy winter hike that's still packed with natural beauty, Bear Creek Nature Preserve is a must-visit destination.
The Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area is a winter paradise for those who love waterfalls. With several breathtaking waterfalls, this is the perfect destination to experience the unique beauty of winter. The Raymondskill Falls, with its 178-foot height, is the tallest waterfall in Pennsylvania, while Dingmans Falls and Silverthread Falls are also beautiful in their own way and located along the same trail. Take a hike on the Tumbling Waters Trail and be enchanted by the magnificent waterfalls. A word of caution, though, it is important to check with the State Park Winter Report for trail conditions, especially after any winter weather, before starting your journey.
Warm up at a Local Brewery
Barley Creek Brewing Company in Tannersville is a popular destination for beer lovers and foodies alike. This brewery produces a wide variety of ales, lagers, and specialty craft spirits, including vodkas, whiskeys, rums, brandy, gins, flavored moonshines, tequila, and canned co*cktails. In addition to their impressive drink menu, the brewery also offers a diverse food menu with options ranging from burgers and sandwiches to soups, salads, and various bar bites. With its extensive selection of drinks and delicious food, Barley Creek Brewing Company is a must-visit for anyone looking for a great time and a tasty meal in the Poconos.
ShawneeCraft Brewery in Shawnee on Delaware offers a unique winter experience with its BeerGarden. To extend the use of the BeerGarden through the colder months, the brewery has four fire pits providing ample lighting, warmth and atmosphere to enjoy live music Thursday through Sunday. The brewery has also added heaters, making it a cozy and inviting space to savor their crafted ales and lagers, even on the chilliest of winter nights.
At Wallenpaupack Brewing Company, visitors can enjoy the highly awarded beers in a unique and cozy atmosphere. The 17,000 square foot brewery is located in Hawley, PA and boasts a three-time gold award winner from the 2022 World Beer Awards. With a menu featuring handcrafted beers and in-house prepared foods, the brewpub and beer garden offer the perfect place to warm up on a winter's day, surrounded by the beauty of the lake. Don't forget to bring home a souvenir, with merchandise, cans, crowlers, and growlers available for purchase.
Antiquing: Discover Treasures from the Past
The Poconos offer a wide range of options for antique enthusiasts, from antique shops to flea markets and vintage finds. Enjoy the charm of discovering unique and one-of-a-kind items that have a rich history and bring home a piece of the Poconos with you. Whether you're looking for furniture, jewelry, or rare collectibles, you're sure to find something you love.
Some of the favorite spots for antiquing in the Poconos include Pocono Peddlers in Tannersville, Pieces of the Past in Newfoundland, Backroads Antiques in Henryville, Weil Antique Center in Allentown and Old Engine Works Market Place in Stroudsburg. Explore these vintage destinations and add a touch of the past to your collection.
Cozying up to the Fire: The Ultimate Way to Unwind in the Poconos
The region's many lodges, inns, cabins, and bed and breakfasts provide an ideal setting for cozying up by a warm fire after a day of outdoor winter activities. Whether you're snuggled up with a good book, playing games with friends and family, or simply taking in the tranquility of the moment, a cozy fire can provide the perfect end to a day of adventure and exploration. So, whether you're looking to stay in a traditional cabin, a luxurious bed and breakfast, or a rustic lodge, make sure to factor in some downtime by the fire into your Poconos itinerary.
Forgot to pack a book? Never fear, Carroll & Carroll Booksellers on Main St. in Stroudsburg is a wonderful used book store. If you're a big reader, this is a must.
ActivitiesWinter
Eric Russ
