The Pocono Mountains transform into a winter wonderland as soon as the snow starts to fall, making it a premier destination for cold-weather fun. Whether you’re an adrenaline seeker looking to carve down the slopes, a family searching for memorable activities, or simply someone who enjoys the serene beauty of a snow-covered landscape, the Poconos has something for everyone. From thrilling ski runs to unique winter festivals, here’s your guide to unforgettable winter fun in the Poconos Mountains!
Hit the Slopes: Skiing & Snowboarding
The Poconos is home to some of the best ski resorts on the East Coast, offering terrain for all skill levels. Whether you’re planning a long weekend ski trip or an extended getaway, you’ll find plenty of winter fun in the Poconos.
Jack Frost & Big Boulder
Jack Frost and Big Boulder are two of the most popular ski resorts in the region, offering a combined lift ticket that allows access to both locations. Jack Frost is known for its wide, beginner-friendly slopes, while Big Boulder is a terrain park paradise, ideal for snowboarders and freestylers looking to catch some air. Both resorts feature snowmaking capabilities, ensuring great conditions all season long.
Blue Mountain Resort
Blue Mountain boasts the highest vertical drop in Pennsylvania, making it a must-visit for more advanced skiers and snowboarders. With 40 trails and a variety of terrain, it’s perfect for everyone from beginners to seasoned pros. Plus, Blue Mountains’s state-of-the-art snow tubing park is the largest in the country, making it an excellent choice for families.
Snow Tubing: Family-Friendly Thrills
For those looking for a fun-filled winter activity that doesn’t require ski experience, snow tubing is the perfect option. Jack Frost/Big Boulder and Blue Mountain both feature extensive tubing parks with multiple lanes, allowing groups to race each other down slopes. Snow tubing requires no special skills – just hop on a tube and enjoy the ride!
Preston & Steve’s Cardboard Classic at Montage Mountain
One of the Poconos’ most unique and entertaining winter events is Preston & Steve’s Cardboard Classic at Montage Mountain. This annual event, hosted by Philadelphia’s WMMR radio station, invites participants to construct sleds made entirely out of cardboard and race them down the slopes. Creativity is key, and the results are often hilarious. Whether you’re participating or just watching, this event is a highlight of the season and a fantastic way to enjoy winter fun in the Poconos.
Weekday vs Weekend Skiing: The Best Time to Hit the Slopes
If you’re looking to avoid the weekend crowds, consider planning a weekday ski getaway. Not only will you experience shorter lift lines and less crowded slopes, but you may also find better vacation rental rates and cheaper lift tickets. Weekends tend to be busier, especially around holiday periods, so if flexibility allows, a midweek stay can be a great way to maximize your time on the mountain.
Finding Winter Fun in the Poconos
Beyond skiing and tubing, the Poconos offers a variety of winter activities for those looking to explore the great outdoors.
Snowshoeing & Cross-Country Skiing
For a more relaxed way to enjoy the winter scenery, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing are fantastic options. Promised Land State Park and Hickory Run State Park offer miles of trails that wind through picturesque forests and along frozen lakes, providing a peaceful alternative to downhill skiing.
Ice Skating
Several resorts and parks in the Poconos offer outdoor ice skating, including Skytop Lodge and Lake Wallenpaupack. Skating under the open sky, surrounded by snow-covered trees, is a magical experience for visitors of all ages!
Plan Your Perfect Winter Getaway
A trip to the Poconos isn’t just about a single day on the slopes—it’s about building big memories. Whether you’re staying for a long weekend or indulging in a week-long retreat, booking the perfect vacation property is the best way to experience all that the Poconos has to offer.
With Pocono Mountain Rentals’ spacious vacation homes designed for large groups, you’ll enjoy multiple living areas, cozy fireplaces, and amenities like private game rooms and outdoor firepits—perfect for gathering with family or friends after a day in the snow. Prepare hearty meals in fully equipped kitchens, relax in hot tubs under the stars, or unwind in a warm, inviting great room with floor-to-ceiling views of the winter landscape. Our purpose-built homes are made for making memories, offering the comfort, space, and convenience you won’t find anywhere else.
Book Your Winter Escape Today
Winter in the Poconos is an experience like no other. From exhilarating ski runs and thrilling tubing parks to unique events like the Cardboard Classic, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a group ski trip, now is the perfect time to start planning your stay. Browse our selection of amazing vacation properties and book your winter escape today!
