Your Guide to Ice Skating in Northeastern PA
Ice skating season has arrived, and Northeastern PA offers plenty of ways to enjoy time on the ice. Whether it’s your first cautious lap along the boards or a confident glide across open ice, skating is a classic cold-weather activity that brings people together each year. From peaceful frozen lakes to lively community rinks, outdoor ice skating in NEPA captures the simple joy of being outside during the winter months.
Outdoor locations offer a memorable way to skate surrounded by snowy landscapes, forest views and small-town charm. Many of these natural ice spots depend entirely on weather conditions, making each outing feel special when the ice is ready. Indoor rinks round out the season with reliable ice, rentals and scheduled sessions, offering a great option when temperatures fluctuate.
Before heading out, safety always comes first. Ice thickness and conditions can change quickly at outdoor locations. Skaters should always follow posted signage, park guidelines and local announcements, and only skate when areas are officially open and deemed safe. Checking conditions ahead of time helps ensure every skate is a fun and worry-free experience.
From outdoor ice skating destinations to indoor rinks, these are some of the best places to lace up and enjoy ice skating across Northeastern Pennsylvania this season.
Schuylkill Haven, PA
Bubeck Park in Schuylkill Haven offers a quiet, local option for outdoor ice skating. Skating is permitted only when conditions are approved by Borough officials, with designated areas clearly marked. Skaters under 16 must be accompanied by a licensed adult.
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Wyoming, PA
Frances Slocum State Park in Wyoming provides a scenic outdoor setting for ice skating close to home. When the lake freezes safely, it becomes a popular winter spot for skating and ice fishing. Always check posted conditions before heading out.
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Gouldsboro, PA
When winter temperatures drop, Gouldsboro State Park in Gouldsboro turns into a winter playground. Visitors can enjoy outdoor ice skating alongside other cold-weather activities. Since this is natural ice, conditions should be confirmed before skating.
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Harveys Lake, PA
Luzerne County’s Harveys Lake is a longtime NEPA favorite for outdoor ice skating during cold snaps. Access is available through the public boat launch. Skaters should verify ice safety before stepping onto the lake.
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White Haven, PA
Hickory Run State Park in White Haven offers outdoor ice skating on Sand Spring Lake when conditions allow. Ice thickness is not monitored and snow is not cleared, so careful planning is essential. Pair your skate with cross-country skiing for a full winter outing.
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South Abington Twp., PA
Hillside Park in South Abington Township features a maintained outdoor rink used for skating and pickup hockey. Ice thickness is actively monitored, and free skate rentals are available. It’s a reliable choice for outdoor ice skating with added peace of mind.
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North Abington Twp., PA
Lackawanna State Park in North Abington Township offers a rustic outdoor ice skating experience when the lake freezes. A designated skating area may be cleared, but ice conditions are not actively monitored. Skaters should follow posted guidance before heading out.
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Barnesville, PA
Locust Lake State Park in Barnesville provides a peaceful natural setting for outdoor ice skating. The frozen lake offers a quiet place to skate surrounded by forested hillsides. Winter hiking or snowshoeing pairs well with a skate here.
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Drums, PA
Nescopeck State Park in Drums outdoor ice skating on Lake Frances when winter conditions align. This large, scenic park provides a calm setting for a natural ice skate. Ice safety should always be checked in advance.
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Greentown, PA
Promised Land State Park in Greentown delivers a peaceful outdoor ice skating experience when Promised Land Lake freezes safely. Skaters glide across natural ice surrounded by quiet forest scenery. Weather and ice conditions should be confirmed before visiting.
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Pine Grove, PA
Sweet Arrow Lake County Park in Pine Grove is a scenic spot for outdoor ice skating when the lake freezes. The park offers a relaxed, family-friendly setting open daily from dawn to dusk. Always confirm ice conditions before skating.
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Tannersville, PA
TLC Park in Tannersville is home to the Pocono Township Outdoor Ice Skating Rink. Weather permitting, the rink is open daily, and skaters should bring their own equipment. Check township updates for current ice conditions.
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Tobyhanna, PA
The lake at Tobyhanna State Park in Tobyhanna offers classic outdoor ice skating on when conditions allow. The frozen lake attracts skaters and ice anglers alike. Since this is natural ice, checking conditions ahead of time is essential.
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Barnesville, PA
Tuscarora State Park in Barnesville provides a simple outdoor ice skating option during the winter months. Skating is available alongside ice fishing and snowshoeing when conditions permit. It’s a scenic way to spend more time outdoors.
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Mountain Top, PA
Wright Township Recreation Park in Mountain Top features an outdoor rink used for public skating and hockey. It’s a convenient, no-frills option for local outdoor ice skating. Check ahead for seasonal hours and rink availability.
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