Remember when a snow day meant the whole world stopped and the only plan was a sled and a hill? Pennsylvania still runs on that feeling, with huskies hauling riders through the Poconos and sailboats racing across frozen lakes. These things to do in Pennsylvania this winter range from first-timer friendly to wonderfully strange, and every one of them is better with cold cheeks. Pack your layers, book a cozy place to stay and play outside like nobody’s checking the forecast.
Snowmobiling
Get your motor running on thousands of miles of roads, trails and fields open for snowmobiling in state forests, state parks and federal lands. Choose from scenic paths through woods or straightaway runs on closed-to-cars roadways. Most routes are open from mid-December to early April and be sure to check trail conditions before visiting.
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McKean County in north-central Pennsylvania has more than 140 miles of trails that connect to an additional 365 miles of groomed pathways within the Allegheny National Forest. The Bradford and Marienville Snowmobile Trailheads offer an easy starting point for your wintry rides. Farther south into central Pennsylvania, Bald Eagle State Forest has 250 miles of roads and trails open for riders. Other popular snowmobiling grounds include Promised Land State Park, Laurel Hill State Park and Raymond B. Winter State Park.
Cross-country skiing
While Pennsylvania has a robust roster of ski resorts and areas for downhill enthusiasts, the state also has plenty of opportunities for those who prefer the quiet of cross-country skiing. Hit groomed and ungroomed trails in state and local forests in Sullivan and Wyoming counties in the Endless Mountains of northeastern Pennsylvania.
At Prince Gallitzin State Park, the Gallitzin Ski Trail offers seven miles of skiing across four trails for different skill levels. High in Upstate Pennsylvania, Loyalsock State Forest features more than 30 miles of trails for skiers to explore.
A hub for hikers and bikers in summer, the 150-mile Great Allegheny Passage is regularly groomed for skiers where it passes through Ohiopyle State Park, Presque Isle and Parker Dam state parks.
Snow tubing
If you’re looking for a snowy adventure that requires practically no special skills or equipment, then try snow tubing — a fantastic alternative offered by many Pennsylvania ski areas and resorts. USA TODAY 10Best readers named Camelback Resort in the Pocono Mountains the #1 snow tubing park in the country in recent years, and it has more than 40 lanes for you to glide down. At Heritage Hills Golf Resort in York, AvalancheXpress launches riders down a seven-story, 900-foot hill. Whitetail Resort in Mercersburg is also known for its tubing terrain, if you want to stay closer to south-central Pennsylvania.
Downhill skiing
Pennsylvania’s slopes cater to skiers of all skill levels, from first-timers to experts. Many of the state’s ski resorts are uniquely located within state parks, blending thrilling hills with natural beauty. Blue Knob State Park, home of Blue Knob All Seasons Resort, offers heart-pounding challenges, perfect for advanced skiers seeking adventure.
Laurel Mountain Ski Resort, located in Laurel Mountain State Park, provides a nostalgic skiing experience with its historic slopes and a cozy lodge with stunning views of the surrounding Laurel Highlands. Known for its family-friendly atmosphere, it offers a mix of both beginner and advanced trails.
Sledding
Sledding in Pennsylvania state parks is a great way for you and your crew to embrace winter fun amid snowy, natural settings. With groomed hills and open spaces, these parks provide safe and scenic spots for families and daredevils alike. For sledding experiences in all corners of the state, top picks include Chapman State Park in the north, Samuel S. Lewis State Park in southern PA, Nockamixon State Park in the east, and Laurel Hill State Park in southwestern PA.
Dogsledding
Few winter excursions are as tail-wagging as a dogsled trip through Pennsylvania’s snowy backcountry. At Nemacolin, athletic Alaskan huskies pull resort guests on snowy treks across the southwestern Pennsylvania countryside. Over in the Pocono Mountains, Arctic Paws Dog Sled Tours at the Shawnee Inn and Golf Resort give you the chance to glide along scenic groomed trails behind a well-trained husky crew. The experience is open to adults and kids ages 10 and up, and advance reservations are required.
Iceboating
Part sailing and part sledding, iceboating is an ideal endeavor for thrill-seekers. Iceboats, essentially sailboats with sled rails, can glide up to 70 miles per hour across frozen surfaces. Set sail at more than 15 Pennsylvania state parks, including Moraine, Codorus, Beltzville, Pymatuning, Black Moshannon and Presque Isle. Keep in mind that state launch permits are required. Those who’ve never sailed on ice should consider connecting with the Erie Yacht Club, an excellent resource for first-timers.
Ice fishing
With more than 2,500 lakes, Pennsylvania has no shortage of ice fishing spots, and Presque Isle Bay ranks among the best in the country. Another standout is Lake Chillisquaque at Montour Preserve in Danville, where yellow perch, northern pike and walleye hide under the ice. Yellow Creek State Park, east of Pittsburgh, is a favorite hangout for sunfish, perch and pike.
Lyman Run State Park near Coudersport is known for rewarding fishers with catches of rainbow and palomino trout, while Black Moshannon State Park near Philipsburg has yellow perch, bluegill, northern pike, and largemouth bass.
Ice skating
Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced skater, Pennsylvania has plenty of lakes and reservoirs for outdoor skating. Delaware Canal State Park, Moraine State Park, Green Lane Park and Gifford Pinchot State Park are just a few favorite places to skate in the wild. Cook Forest State Park’s lighted pond offers a fire ring, skate rental and a nearby sledding hill.
For urban skating adventures, head to the Rothman Orthopaedics Ice Rink at Dilworth Park in Philadelphia, which has a warming hut with hot chocolate, coffee and snacks. In the Lehigh Valley, the Earl E. Schaffer Bethlehem Municipal Ice Rink offers an outdoor Olympic-sized rink, as well as adaptive skate sessions.
Tobogganing
For a ride unlike anything else, head to the historic Eagles Mere Toboggan Slide in Sullivan County. The volunteer-made ice chute sends riders racing across a frozen lake at speeds up to 45 mph, with each toboggan seating up to five adults. Rentals are first come, first served with no reservations. The toboggan season depends on the ice; be sure to check the slide's website before you go.
Carriage rides
For a relaxing and romantic cruise through Pennsylvania’s postcard-worthy winter woodlands, experience a horse-drawn carriage ride. Gateway Lodge in Cooksburg offers rides along snow-dusted trails in the heart of Cook Forest, a perfect way to enjoy a winter stay. Hop on a private horse-drawn sleigh, carriage or wagon ride through the Christmas tree farm at Port Farms near Erie during its Country Christmas celebration.
Known as the Christmas City, Bethlehem is home to the Bethlehem Carriage Company, which is keeping the tradition of horse-drawn rides alive. When snow hits the ground, wrap yourself in a cozy blanket next to your loved ones, take on the Hallmark movie-esque decorated town and glide through the snow to the sound of jingle bells ringing in the crisp winter air.
In Benezette, the Elk Country Visitor Center offers horse-drawn sleigh rides through the heart of Elk Country. Ride through a vast landscape covered in snow as you view the largest free-roaming elk herd in the Northeast.
Winter hiking
Winter hiking in Pennsylvania gives you quiet trails, often to yourself, and long views that stay hidden during other times of year while the leaves are still on. Allegheny National Forest, the state’s only national forest, transforms into a winter wonderland during the chilly months. The Rimrock Hiking Trail and Overlook is a picturesque 1.3-mile trail that leads to breathtaking views of the Allegheny Reservoir and the surrounding snow-covered hillsides.
While on your winter hike, you might even come across one of Pennsylvania’s beautiful seasonal waterfalls.
For a more accessible winter hike, the Star Mill Trail at Black Moshannon State Park in the Pennsylvania Wilds is short and gentle in frosty conditions. Stomp through fresh snow like you did as a kid, then warm up with hot cocoa back at the car.
Winter festivals in Pennsylvania state parks
Why hibernate when you can celebrate? Winter festivals in Pennsylvania state parks bring frosty fun to life with ice carving, sledding and winter hikes that’ll have you embracing the season like a snow-loving pro. WinterFest at Ohiopyle State Park pairs one of the state’s most picturesque winter scenes with sleigh rides and self-guided hikes. Raymond B. Winter State Park hosts its can’t-miss Snowfest early in the new year. For more state park winter festivals to attend this season, visit the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources’ calendar of events.
