SkiPA (The Pennsylvania Ski Areas Association) Rounds Up NEPA’s Awesome Ski and Snowboard Resorts
If you’re still dreaming of a winter wonderland or simply want to burn off those holiday calories, January through mid-March is a great time to hit the PA slopes. No need to hibernate this winter, the mountains are calling. Explore the pristine winter landscape and enjoy some heart-healthy fun in the great outdoors. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just getting started, Northeastern Pennsylvania’s eight area resorts offer a variety of terrain for every ability.
Here’s your guide to the area’s best skiing and snowboarding from our friends at SkiPA.
Palmerton, PA
Home to the state’s highest vertical, Blue Mountain is just a short drive from New York or Philadelphia. With the longest runs and most varied terrain, it’s a great ski destination for everyone in the family. And the resort accommodates all skill levels. The resort’s new high-speed, six-person lift will take you from bottom to top in under five minutes. At the end of the day, head to the Slopeside Pub & Grill and enjoy some of the best mountaintop views in the Poconos.
If you’re ready for an extended winter getaway, Camelback Resort is a great option. The four-season resort combines comfy suite-style lodging with tons of recreational offerings including the popular Aquatopia Indoor Waterpark. Enjoy skiing on 39 diverse trails across 166 skiable acres. With the new Black Bear six-person lift, you can go from the base to the top of the mountain in just three minutes. Want to take a break from skiing? Camelback is also home to the biggest snowtubing park in the U.S. It features over 40 lanes and a spectacular nighttime Galactic Light Show.
Union Dale, PA
Situated in the beautiful Endless Mountains, Elk Mountain offers 180 skiable acres with 27 trails ranging from green to blue to black diamond, featuring a trail for every skill level. It’s a favorite resort for those of you looking for challenging terrain. The newly renovated Winter Garden restaurant is a great place to warm up with an Apres-ski cocktail or snack. Elk is committed to maintaining the beauty of the natural landscape of the Endless Mountains and has a tree planting program that dates to the late1970’s.
White Haven, PA
Nestled in the Poconos just an hour from Philly, Jack Frost and Big Boulder offer two discount experiences on the same lift ticket. With two mountains, you can explore 35 trails or reach new heights on two Terrain Parks. JFBB also offers night skiing and riding all season long.
Scranton, PA
Montage Mountain is one of the best kept secrets in the Poconos featuring beautiful valley views and the best trail diversity in the Mid-Atlantic. Covering over 140 skiable acres with 27 trails and a 1 ,000-foot vertical, there’s a mix of terrain sure to please everyone in the group. After dark the fun is just getting started. Enjoy full-mountain night skiing and Après-style cocktails at the Slocum Hollow. Montage is just minutes from downtown Scranton and two hours from NYC and Philly.
Shawnee on the Delaware, PA
Looking for a great beginner-friendly ski resort? Head to Shawnee Mountain Resort one of the Poconos favorite family ski resorts. Shawnee offers a first-time ski and board package that include lift ticket, rentals and a group lesson with dedicated instructors. Fourth graders from any state can also ski/board for free three times with a paid adult lift ticket purchase. Best of all, the 4th Grade Snow Pass is open to any fourth grader from any state and only requires a one-time $5 enrollment fee.
Lackawaxen, PA
Located just two hours from New York City, Ski Big Bear is a great winter ski destination situated on its own semi-private mountain. It’s a great option if you’re looking for convenience from the city without the crowds. Enjoy 18 trails on 26 skiable acres and 100% snowmaking. New to skiing? Ski Big Bear features gentle learner slopes and a specialized Snowsports school perfectly suited for beginners.
Plan your ski getaway now and make this a winter to remember. For the latest snow conditions and to learn more about NEPA area ski resorts, visit SkiPA.
