For your next ski getaway, head to the Keystone State. The Appalachian mountains cut through Pennsylvania, and there is a great variety of slopes, landscapes, and accommodations to pick from. Both beginners and pros will find something exciting here, and the majority of resorts are family-friendly. As for the winter activities, there are plenty of those too. Whether you’re looking for skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, snow tubing, or simply lounging in an après-ski, the state’s rich proposition has you covered. Without further ado, here are the best ski resorts in Pennsylvania to play in the snow.
Blue Mountain - Palmerton
You’ve got plenty of cool things to do in Blue Mountain, a quintessential Pennsylvania ski resort situated in Carbon County. The elevation here is 1,407 feet, and the vertical drop stands at 1,087, making it the highest in the whole state. The numbers are really impressive for Pennsylvania and winter sports aficionados of every level can find something for themselves. You can access 40 trails served by 16 lifts. There are also five terrain parks and a superb 39-lane snow tubing area. In other words, this is a whole universe of winter outdoor fun. The best time to come for snow would be December to March, with February offering ideal skiing conditions.
Seven Springs Ski Resort - Champion
Closer to the Austrian and French counterparts in spirit than to fellow Pennsylvania ski resorts, Seven Springs firmly holds the position as the state’s largest. And true to the status, it boasts the best infrastructure and accommodation options. There is an upscale hotel, a series of mountain chalets, and cottages that allow for a comfortable stay among the beautiful nature. It’s the slopes, though, that takes a central place here. With elevations reaching a whopping (for Pennsylvania) 2,994 feet, 33 slopes and trails, and seven terrain parks, it’s a winter outdoor kingdom with unlimited family fun. You can also do night skiing at Seven Springs and simply enjoy winter hiking in the fresh air. And it’s not only reserved for wintertime, the resort is open all year round, so you can plan an ideal escape that suits your schedule.
Camelback Mountain Resort Ski Resort - Tannersville
Take advantage of the beauty of the Pocono Mountains to the fullest coming to Camelback which is among the best ski resorts in Pennsylvania for kids. It’s the snow tubing park that makes this place stand out. The area is the largest in the U.S., with 40 lanes and unlimited winter fun for both children and adults. That’s a safe bet if you’d like to experience winter activities but don’t want to take it to the slopes. However, if skiing is your focus, Camelback Mountain is equally good. You’ve got 39 trails and 16 lifts that offer a straightforward and high-quality descent experience. And it doesn’t stop there for a rewarding family time at this resort, Aquatopia Indoor Waterpark is also a must-visit with many slides, tubes, and thrilling water pleasure.
Elk Mountain - Union Dale
Enjoying the fame of a hidden gem among Pennsylvania ski resorts, Elk Mountain is for those looking to get away from the bustle. You find it in the romantically named Endless Mountains area in the vicinity of Union Dale. 27 trails covering 180 acres of skiable terrain is the offer here along with 2,667 feet and a 925 feet vertical drop. It’s that boutique winter resort that gives you a calmer, more tranquil experience with fewer people and more opportunities for a spacious ride. LED lamps ensure the perfect ambiance for night skiing, and the snowmaking covers the whole of the resort. And yes, the views from the top are magnificent, Eastern Pennsylvania at its finest.
Laurel Mountain Ski Resort - Boswell
Opened back in 1940 and featuring slope design from iconic Austrian skier Johann “Hannes” Schneider, Laurel Mountain Ski Resort is Pennsylvania ski enthusiasts’ fave. Nestled among the beauty of Laurel Mountain State Park, it is an ultimate winter destination that has the steepest slope in the state (legendary Lower Wildcat) as well as one of the highest drops (761 feet). Here you find 20 trails on 70 acres, a series of slopes for every level, and two lifts. It’s this classy ski resort that still boasts some of the pre-war chalets (Midway Cabin) and offers scenic winter fun for the whole family.
Blue Knob Ski Resort - Claysburg
If you’re looking for some record-breaking places, Blue Knob fits the bill. It is officially the highest skiable mountain in Pennsylvania. Not only does it have an excellent ski resort for proper enjoyment of the heights, but the vistas here are spectacular. That combination is a winner if you’re looking for a cool ski resort in Pennsylvania. The stats are great too, there are 34 trails with six lifts, and the vertical drop stands at 1,072 feet. The high elevations will be heaven for expert skiers, you find some of the most rewarding and difficult runs here with an amazing snow cover. As much as it is great for pros, the kids will have a great time at Blue Knob too, since there is a nice snow tubing park. Plenty of accommodation options and various eateries will make it easy for adults to plan a budget-friendly holiday.
Hidden Valley Resort - Hidden Valley
Set in Somerset County in the heart of Laurel Highlands on Pennsylvania’s southeastern border, Hidden Valley Resort is an easygoing winter destination that combines affordability with a family-first orientation. It will be a perfect place to start your skiing journey. The slopes are gentle, there’s a snowsports school, and the conditions are ideal for beginners. Families will love the snow tubing runs, cheap & cheerful dining at the mountain cafes, and a variety of events. It’s not only for starters, though. The 26 trails and 110 acres of skiable terrain will give the area to play even for the most experienced winter sports enthusiasts.
Shawnee Mountain Ski Area - Shawnee on Delaware
It’s only 77 miles between New York City and Shawnee Mountain Ski Area. The exciting world of winter sports awaits you here, and it’s just a 2-hour drive away. The resort is ideal for experiencing the glorious panoramas of the Pocono Mountains. As for the skiing proposition, there’s something for everyone. Family-friendly at its core, the resort offers 23 slopes, two terrain parks, and a snow tubing park. The snowmaking covers 100% of Shawnee Mountain Ski Area, so you can be sure of the best conditions when you’re here.
Bear Creek Mountain Resort - Macungie
Bear Creek is an all-in-one kind of leisure experience. It pays off to spend a weekend or the whole week here, profiting from the sumptuous slopeside lodging offer, the fancy après-ski, and the relaxing spa. The dining is on point too, giving you a chance to try the delights of local cuisine and enjoy the mountain views in the process. Don’t worry, the slopes are very much on the high level here. There are 86 acres with 21 trails, all of it with incredible Lehigh Valley as a background. Three terrain parks will give you plenty of room to practice the moves. Bear Creek Mountain is an ultimate winter resort near Philadelphia, it’s less than an hour away.
Montage Mountain - Scranton
Scranton folk knows and loves Montage Mountain, a cool Poconos ski resort located on the fringes of this Northeast Pennsylvania city. Everyone else takes notice and comes here to enjoy the 140 acres of winter amusement that is a perfect choice for families. A nice pick for beginners, it still has some of the most challenging slopes in the state with a variety of advanced and intermediate rides. The night skiing option, a terrain park, a waterpark, and snow tubing lanes make it an action-packed destination and a great family ski resort in Pennsylvania. And we’re in Poconos Mountains, so the views will be breathtaking.
Spring Mountain Adventures - Schwenksville
An hour car ride from Philadelphia and you are at Spring Mountain Adventures, the tiny ski resort with eight trails and two terrain parks. It’s the best choice for families looking to start the winter sports journey and do it in a calm, uncrowded atmosphere. Whether it’s skiing or snowboarding, Spring Mountain Adventures offers a variety of learning options at affordable rates. It’s a boutique winter resort where the family can spend quality time together, profiting from the outdoors and combining it with an accessible learning process.
Whitetail Resort - Mercersburg
Set at the picturesque Bear Pond Mountains almost on the border with Maryland, Whitetail Resort is a great way to get the most out of Pennsylvania winter. There are 23 slopes, nine lifts, a vertical drop of 935 feet, and one of the best learning programs you can find in the state, making this resort a go-to place for every skiing and snowboarding enthusiast. With several eateries and cafes located on-site, you can pleasantly combine snow-filled adventures with cozy coffee-sipping and tasty food-savoring. As with most Pennsylvania ski resorts, it opens in December and closes in March, so plan your holiday accordingly.
