Ready to experience Pennsylvania’s magical winter?

From exciting outdoor adventures like snow tubing and cross-country skiing to a number of holiday events and horse-drawn carriage rides, the Keystone State turns into a real-life winter wonderland.

Let’s dive into the best outdoor winter adventures that make Pennsylvania unforgettable. What will you explore first this season?

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Unforgettable Outdoor Winter Adventures in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania is a top destination for winter outdoor adventure options, from skiing and snowshoeing to general ice skating and holiday-themed attractions.

The Keystone State turns into a winter wonderland with its scenic landscapes and thrilling sports, suiting all ages and skill levels.

Popular attractions for skiing include the Pocono Mountains and Laurel Highlands, while towns like Bethlehem offer festive charm and cozy retreats.

Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or just want a quiet getaway, Pennsylvania has something for everyone. For families, Roundtop Mountain Resort and Camelback Resort offer snow tubing and beginner ski lessons so no one misses out on the fun of winter sports.

Meanwhile, tranquil spots like Allegheny National Forest welcome outdoor lovers to explore trails and frozen lakes. With so much to do, Pennsylvania ensures your winter is anything but ordinary.

Top Winter Outdoor Adventures in Pennsylvania

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Downhill Skiing and Snowboarding

For adrenaline-pumping slopes, Pennsylvania’s ski resorts deliver world-class experiences. Camelback Mountain Resort in the Pocono Mountains boasts impeccably groomed trails and the largest snow tubing park in the U.S.

For a family-friendly atmosphere, Seven Springs Mountain Resort in the Laurel Highlands 90 minutes southeast of Pittsburgh features 33 slopes, terrain parks, and ski lessons for all skill levels.

Elk Mountain Ski Resort 30 minutes north of Scranton offers an unpretentious experience with consistent snow and stunning trails.

Closer to Philadelphia, Spring Mountain Adventures in Montgomery County provides beginner-friendly slopes and magic carpet lifts, perfect for families and new skiers.

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Cross-Country Skiing

Pennsylvania is home to over 500 miles of cross-country skiing trails. Ohiopyle State Park in Southwest Pennsylvania and Black Moshannon State Parks near State College transform into serene Nordic skiing zones during winter.

The Great Allegheny Passage along the Pennsylvania-Maryland border in central Pennsylvania is another favorite, offering groomed trails that weave through breathtaking landscapes.

Stay at Eagles Mere Inn near Conservancy Trails for a charming multi-day cross-country skiing experience.

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Snow Tubing

Snow tubing is one of Pennsylvania’s most accessible and enjoyable winter activities. Snow tubing requires no experience, making it the perfect activity for all ages.

Camelback Mountain’s award-winning tubing park features 40+ lanes, with magic carpet lifts for easy access.

AvalancheXpress in York County offers thrilling seven-story hills, while Whitetail Resort in south central Pennsylvania hosts tubing parties for groups and families.

For a nostalgic twist, try the historic Eagles Mere Toboggan Slide midway between Williamsport and Wilkes-Barre, which has delighted visitors since the early 1900s.

Unique Winter Adventures in Pennsylvania

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Ice Skating

Ice skating is another popular winter tradition in Pennsylvania. Dilworth Park in Philadelphia offers an enchanted urban rink with an on-site Rothman Cabin for warm drinks and snacks.

Cook Forest State Park near Clarion offers a more rustic skating experience on its lighted pond, surrounded by sledding hills. For Olympic-sized fun, Bethlehem’s Earl E. Schaffer Ice Rink offers sessions for all skill levels and adaptive options.

Snowshoeing and Winter Hikes

Explore the snow-covered trails of Pennsylvania on snowshoes or by hiking.

The Allegheny National Forest is a visual wonder in winter, while the Rimrock Hiking Trail near the New York State line offers breathtaking views across snowy hills.

For an easier hike, the Star Mill Trail in Black Moshannon State Park takes you serenely on a peaceful, snow-covered ride. There are even guided snowshoe tours that can provide knowledge of local flora and fauna during your trek.

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Ice Fishing on Frozen Lakes

Ice fishing enthusiasts will love Pennsylvania’s abundant frozen lakes. Lyman Run State Park is a hotspot for trout fishing, while Lake Chillisquaque near Lewisburg and Crooked Creek Lake nears northeast of Pittsburgh promise bountiful catches of bass and walleye.

Before heading out, ensure the ice is safe, and bring appropriate gear. Several local shops offer rentals and tips for beginners, making ice fishing a very rewarding winter activity.

Snowmobiling

Enjoy this popular winter pursuit, with over 140 miles of trails in the Allegheny National Forest alone. Bald Eagle State Forest near State College and Tioga State Forests near Wellsboro also provide expansive routes, perfect for thrill-seekers.

Guided tours at Seven Springs Mountain Resort cater to beginners and pros alike.

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Dogsledding

Get ready for dogsledding adventures through southwestern Pennsylvania’s beautiful countryside at Nemacolin Resort, tugged by energetic Alaskan Huskies. Meet the sled team and learn about one of the world’s most fascinating sports. No snow? Try a Touri Cart ride on wheels for a one-of-a-kind ride.

Festive Holiday Adventures

Light Displays and Seasonal Events

Over three million plus twinkling lights display stunning beauty at Shady Brook Farm in Yardley. Not to be left behind, there is Hershey Sweet Lights, a place one could see a drive-through wonderland perfect for the whole family.

For something slightly cultural, Bethlehem’s Christmas markets infuse that hint of old-world charm into holiday shopping.

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Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides

Romantic and nostalgic, horse-drawn carriage rides are a must during a Pennsylvania winter. Take a scenic ride at the Gateway Lodge in Cook Forest or through pine-scented forests with Happy Trails Stables in the Pocono Mountains.

In Benezette, sleigh rides through Elk Country offer a chance to spot the Northeast’s largest free-roaming elk herd.

Planning Your Winter Getaway

When to Visit

The best time to visit Pennsylvania’s winter activities is from December to February, when the snow has fallen, and the trails are well-marked and maintained.

Early December provides festival events, while mid-January allows for quiet, more secluded outdoor exploration.

What to Pack

To make it enjoyable, bring warm layers, insulated boots, gloves, and hats. If you go skiing or snowshoeing, consider renting from local shops.

Don’t forget hand warmers and a thermos for hot drinks to maintain comfort on longer adventures.

Finding the Right Accommodations

Family-friendly inns, luxury resorts, and comforting lodges dot the state. If romance brings you here, try Pocono Manor Resort & Spa a few miles north of Camelback Ski Resort.

For some fun in the family, go down to Bear Creek Mountain Resort or cabins near Laurel Highlands.

Leaving You With This

Pennsylvania’s winter season offers many memorable moments, from serene nature trails and frozen lakes to adrenaline-pumping snowmobile rides and heartwarming dogsledding adventures.

Discovering small towns in their festive glory, gliding across ice rinks, or savoring the tranquility of snow-covered landscapes is undoubtedly entertaining.

So buckle up, embrace the season, grab your gear, and make this winter a season of adventure, tranquility, and lifelong memories. Adventure, serenity, and warmth await.

Start planning your perfect Pennsylvania winter getaway today!

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Looking for even more Pennsylvania winter getaway inspiration? Head over to Visit PA to uncover a treasure trove of ideas for your next Keystone State adventure. From cozy retreats to thrilling outdoor activities, Pennsylvania has a winter escape waiting just for you!