Eastern Pennsylvania Ski Resorts
Eastern PA is home to some of the state’s most accessible and family-friendly ski destinations, many within easy driving distance of major metropolitan areas. These resorts are perfect for families seeking their first ski experience or looking for convenient weekend getaways.
1. Bear Creek Mountain Resort
Macungie
23 trails | 6 lifts | 510 ft. vertical | 3 terrain parks
With 86 acres of skiable terrain, Bear Creek Mountain Resort offers winter sports enthusiasts a wonderland of skiing, snowboarding, and snow tubing experiences The mountain’s beginner area features a carpet lift and triple chair, perfect for first-timers building confidence, while Sasquatch, their most challenging black diamond trail, has a 50% slope for expert skiers. Their three terrain parks offer a progressive range of freestyle features, with the Family Park serving up smaller jumps, rails, and boxes for beginning freestylers, while Black Bear Park challenges experts with the largest jumps and most technical features. The resort’s slope-side hotel and spa offer the perfect mix of après-ski warmth and relaxation.
Best for: Families wanting slope-side lodging | Beginners and progressive learners
Season: Typically December through March
Budget tip: Check for midweek package deals combining lodging and lift tickets
2. Blue Mountain Resort
Palmerton
40 trails | 16 lifts | 1,082 ft. vertical | 5 terrain parks
Blue Mountain Resort boasts the highest vertical (1,082) in Pennsylvania! With 40 trails and 16 lifts, including a six-passenger high-speed lift, there are plenty of options for every level. Enhanced snowmaking technology means better conditions across the mountain, while expanded trails like Come Around, Lower Lazy, Falls, and Lower Sidewinder give skiers more terrain to explore. Their terrain parks range from beginner to expert where you can learn the basics or truly test your skills with black diamond features and epic S-turns! Their snow tubing park is the largest in the nation with up to 56 lanes and features Sonic night tubing with colorful laser lights and music — a huge hit with kids! Refuel at Wood Fired Pizza & Pub, where pizzas are ready in just 90 seconds.
Best for: Families seeking variety | All skills | Night skiing enthusiasts
Season: First to open and last to close in the Poconos
Budget tip: Purchase lift tickets online in advance for better rates
3. Montage Mountain Resort
Scranton
27 trails | 7 lifts | 1,000 ft. vertical | 1 terrain park
Montage Mountain‘s 27 trails encompassing 140 acres offer some of the best trail diversity in the entire region, from trails ideal for first-timers to expert runs like White Lightning — the second steepest trail in the East. Lights along the trails make for fun-filled night skiing and snowboarding. Freestylers will find perfect jibs, natural features, and crispy lips at the terrain park, while those who prefer their winter sports sitting down will have loads of fun gliding down a slope in some snow tubing action.
Best for: Diverse family groups with varying skill levels | Night skiing
Season: December through March
Budget tip: Look for bundled tickets combining skiing and snow tubing for family variety
4. Camelback Mountain Resort
Tannersville
39 trails | 16 lifts | 800 ft. vertical | 3 terrain parks
Celebrating over 60 years of world-class skiing, Camelback Mountain Resort is the largest ski resort in the Pocono Mountains with 166 skiable acres. The resort features 39 trails for all skill levels, a snowboard half-pipe, three terrain parks, and one of the largest snow tubing parks in the nation with 42 lanes that glow at night during their Galactic tubing experience. Camelback also offers the Peak-to-Peak Poconos Pass for both adults and children, providing unlimited skiing and lift access to both Camelback and Blue Mountain resorts with no blackout dates. Camelback was voted “One of the Best Ski Resorts in the U.S. and Canada” for 2023-24 by Conde Nast Traveler’s Readers” Choice Awards!
Best for: Families wanting resort amenities | Beginners through experts | Snow tubing enthusiasts
Season: December through March
Budget tip: Consider the Peak-to-Peak Poconos Pass if you plan multiple visits to both Camelback and Blue Mountain
5. Spring Mountain Adventures
Spring Mount
7 main trails | 5 lifts | 428 ft. vertical | 1 terrain park
Located just minutes from the Lansdale Exit (#31) of the Pennsylvania Turnpike, Spring Mountain Adventures is the ideal place to start a family tradition of winter sports. With seven trails, four chair lifts, a magic carpet lift perfect for beginners, and even an ice skating rink, this smaller resort focuses on creating a welcoming environment for new skiers. Their Ski Bees program welcomes children as young as three, while adult lessons help grown-ups get comfortable on the slopes. The intimate size means less intimidation and more personalized attention.
Best for: First-time skiers and families with young children | Learning environment
Season: December through March
Budget tip: Look for beginner package deals that include lessons, equipment, and lift access
6. Elk Mountain Ski Resort
Union Dale
27 trails | 7 lifts | 1,000 ft. vertical | 1 terrain park
Since Elk Mountain first welcomed skiers in 1959, this resort has maintained its reputation for quality terrain and natural beauty. Set in the picturesque “Endless Mountains” about 30 minutes north of Scranton, Elk features 27 slopes ranging from green to black diamond. While known for challenging terrain, there are plenty of beginner and intermediate options. The resort’s Stompin’ Grounds Terrain Park features fun and exciting changes throughout the season as new and exciting boxes, bonks, and rails are built and switched out. The resort’s decades-long dedicated nursery program includes regular plantings of Norway spruce and red and white pines, helping to maintain the winter wonderland magic of this beautiful mountain.
Best for: Families seeking natural beauty | Intermediate to advanced skiers
Season: December through March
Budget tip: Check for early-season and late-season discounted rates
7. Jack Frost Big Boulder Ski Area
Jack Frost: 20 trails | 9 lifts | 600 ft. vertical | 1 terrain park
Big Boulder: 18 trails | 7 lifts | 475 ft. vertical | 2 terrain parks
Nestled in the Pocono Mountains, Jack Frost and Big Boulder offer “Two Mountains, One Epic Trip.” Jack Frost is often the first ski resort in Pennsylvania to open thanks to new energy-efficient snow guns, while Big Boulder features LED slope lights that are 42% brighter and terrain parks configured for excellent progression. Big Boulder also celebrated 75 years as a premier skiing destination in 2023 and is where snowmaking was first used successfully in a commercial application. Together, Jack Frost Big Boulder offers an out-west vibe and has become a premier destination for skiers and snow boarders to test their freestyle skills with impeccable grooming and a lot of advanced level terrain across the two mountains for experienced skiers and riders. Take a break from all the skiing and snowboarding action with Big Boulder’s Bubly Tube Park.
Best for: Value seekers getting two mountains | Freestyle progression | Tech-savvy families
Season: Jack Frost typically opens first in Pennsylvania
Budget tip: The Epic Pass provides excellent value for frequent visitors and includes access to resorts nationwide
8. Shawnee Mountain Ski Area
East Stroudsburg
23 trails | 10 lifts | 700 ft. vertical | 2 terrain parks
With 125 acres of skiable terrain, Shawnee Mountain is an ideal spot for winter sport enthusiasts of all ages. The resort’s Tomahawk Express Quad lift whisks you to the 3,100-foot summit in three minutes, giving you plenty of time to hit all the slopes. Kids 12 and under can take a break at Mini Monster Mountain with its snowball walls, mouse climber, puzzle blocks, and snow glider. Shawnee gets 100% of its energy from wind power, and offers free skiing for 3rd and 4th graders with a paid adult ticket. Convenient lodging packages at the nearby Shawnee Inn & Golf Resort simplify trip planning.
Best for: Families with elementary-age children | Eco-conscious travelers
Season: December through March
Budget tip: Take advantage of the free 3rd and 4th grade program and affordable local resident rates
9. Ski Big Bear
Lackawaxen
18 trails | 7 lifts | 650 ft. vertical |2 terrain parks
With 18 trails, seven lifts including two magic carpets, and two terrain parks, Ski Big Bear is the the perfect place for newbies to learn to ski or snowboard. Gentle learner slopes, affordable rentals, and quality lessons make the mountain ideal for those new to skiing or snowboarding, no matter your age. The snow tubing park makes it an ideal destination for families with non-skiers or anyone wanting to take a fun break from the slopes.
Best for: First-time skiers and snowboarders | Budget-conscious families
Season: December through March
Budget tip: Affordable rental and lesson packages make this one of the most economical options for beginners
Central Pennsylvania Ski Resorts
Central Pennsylvania’s ski resorts offer excellent terrain combined with the convenience of being close to major population centers like Harrisburg, Hershey, and State College. These mountains are perfect for families looking for accessible winter fun without long drives.
10. Blue Knob All Seasons Resort
Claysburg
34 trails | 6 lifts | 1,072 ft. vertical
Often considered Pennsylvania’s best-kept secret, Blue Knob All Seasons Resort features one of the highest ski mountains in PA. While known for challenging slopes, there are plenty of trails for beginners and intermediate skiers. Cross-country skiers can enjoy groomed and non-groomed trails, and non-skiers will have fun at the snow tubing park. The resort features condominium lodging in Alpine Village, where guests can enjoy a variety of resort amenities without leaving the property.
Best for: Families wanting on-mountain lodging | Diverse skill levels
Season: December through March
Budget tip: Look for condo packages that include lift tickets for multi-day savings
11. Whitetail Resort
Mercersburg
22 trails | 9 lifts | 935 ft. vertical | 2 terrain parks
Opening in 1991, Pennsylvania’s newest ski resort and the newest east of the Mississippi, Whitetail Resort has been delighting visitors for over three decades. The mountain’s 120 skiable acres features 22 trails of progressive terrain, allowing beginners to practice their newfound skills while experts hone their abilities. Book a mid-week visit to practically have the mountain to yourself! The resort’s proximity to Hershey and Gettysburg makes it easy to combine skiing with other Pennsylvania attractions.
Best for: Families seeking uncrowded mid-week skiing | Progressive terrain
Season: December through March
Budget tip: Mid-week rates are significantly lower and crowds are minimal
12. Liberty Mountain Resort
Fairfield
16 trails | 8 lifts | 620 ft. vertical | 2 terrain parks
Only about an hour drive from D.C. and Baltimore and just eight miles southwest of historic Gettysburg, Liberty Mountain Resort is perfect for a quick winter getaway. The resort’s 100 acres of skiable terrain and two terrain parks are ideal for skiers and snowboarders who are just learning or at the intermediate level, though advanced skiers will find challenging terrain too. The Bubly snow tubing park requires no experience — just good old fashioned wintertime fun!
Best for: Weekend getaways from DC/Baltimore | Beginners to intermediate skiers
Season: December through March
Budget tip: Combine your ski trip with a visit to nearby Gettysburg for educational family fun
13. Roundtop Mountain Resort
Lewisberry
21 trails | 8 lifts | 600 ft. vertical | 2 terrain parks
A short drive from both Hershey and Gettysburg, Roundtop Mountain Resort (formerly Ski Roundtop) celebrated its 60th anniversary in 2024. While close to 60% of Roundtop’s 103 acres of skiable terrain is billed as “advanced,” there’s plenty of terrain for beginners and intermediates, plus world-class instruction to help you level up your skills. The resort also offers night skiing and snowboarding opportunities all season long, along with an epic snow tubing experience.
Best for: Families with mixed skill levels | Night skiing enthusiasts
Season: December through March
Budget tip: Night skiing tickets are often discounted compared to day rates
14. Ski Sawmill Family Resort
Morris
12 trails | 3 lifts | 515 ft. vertical | 1 terrain park
Located between Lock Haven and Wellsboro, Ski Sawmill Family Resort offers 12 slopes for all skill levels with a vertical drop of 515 feet. This fun and affordable resort features four lodging options ranging from a farmhouse to the Mountain Inn, making it perfect for a weekend ski getaway. The resort has undergone updates, including refreshed decks, updated lodge floors, and enhanced facilities. Plus, their Chainsaw terrain park offers several fun challenges.
Best for: Budget-conscious families | Multi-day ski trips
Season: December through March
Budget tip: Purchase prepaid punch cards by December 1st and save 30-50% on lift tickets
15. Tussey Mountain
Boalsburg
8 trails | 4 lifts | 500 ft. vertical | 1 terrain park
Known as “a small mountain with a large heart,” Tussey Mountain offers skiing on 38 acres with eight trails ranging from beginner to advanced. A short drive from Penn State’s University Park, Tussey’s terrain park features boxes, rails, pipes, and assorted jumps. All trails are lit for night skiing, and guests 21 and over can warm up at the Mountainside Bar after hitting the slopes. The intimate atmosphere and proximity to State College make this a local favorite.
Best for: Penn State families and alumni | Intimate learning environment
Season: December through March
Budget tip: Check for college student discounts and family packages
Western Pennsylvania Ski Resorts
Western Pennsylvania is home to some of the state’s largest and most comprehensive ski destinations, perfect for families planning extended winter vacations or seeking world-class amenities alongside great skiing.
16. Laurel Mountain Ski Resort
Boswell
20 trails | 2 lifts | 761 ft. vertical
Nestled in Laurel Mountain State Park, Laurel Mountain Ski Resort is an iconic and revered skiers’ mountain. Boasting the highest vertical drop on the Laurel Ridge at 761 feet, the mountain is famous for its double diamond Lower Wildcat Slope, the steepest in the state with a nearly 60 percent slope. The slopes were originally designed by European skiing legend Johann “Hannes” Schneider, the renowned Austrian ski guide and inventor of the Arlberg Method, the basis of modern alpine ski technique. The resort opened in 1940 and some of the original structures still grace the property.
Best for: Advanced skiers seeking challenges | Ski history enthusiasts
Season: December through March
Budget tip: This smaller resort often has lower ticket prices than larger Western PA destinations
17. Mount Pleasant of Edinboro
Cambridge Springs
10 trails | 2 lifts | 340 ft. vertical
Nestled in the snowbelt region of northwestern Pennsylvania, Mount Pleasant of Edinboro offers family-friendly winter fun for all ages. With 40 skiable acres, 10 trail runs, and a 600-foot, eight-lane snow tubing hill, this resort welcomes everyone from the beginning first timer to the experts. Many trails are lit at night to allow for safe night skiing and snowboarding. Mount Pleasant also offers cross country skiing and snowshoeing with groomed trails of natural snow, with each “trail access pass” including a chairlift ride up and down from the trails.
Best for: Families in Northwestern PA | Night skiing | Natural snow enthusiasts
Season: December through March
Budget tip: Snowbelt location often means natural snow coverage, reducing need for expensive snowmaking
18. Hidden Valley Resort
Hidden Valley
28 trails | 8 lifts | 470 ft. vertical | 2 terrain parks
Don’t be fooled by its name! Located in the Laurel Highlands about an hour southeast of Pittsburgh, Hidden Valley Resort is easy to find. With 28 trails, eight lifts, and two terrain parks, the mountain promises fun-filled skiing and snowboarding from first-timers to experienced skiers. Boasting inches of skiable snow each year on 110 acres, Hidden Valley Resort offers the complete package with gear rentals and lessons for those just starting out or wanting to upgrade their skills.
Best for: Pittsburgh-area families | First-timers needing comprehensive services
Season: December through March
Budget tip: Look for Pittsburgh-area resident specials and mid-week packages
19. Seven Springs Mountain Resort
Champion
33 trails | 14 lifts | 750 ft. vertical | 7 terrain parks
Seven Springs Mountain Resort is Pennsylvania’s largest ski resort boasting 285 acres of skiable terrain, 33 trails, and 14 lifts. For freestyle enthusiasts, seven terrain parks offer a progressive range of difficulty — beginners can start at North Park with small features, while The Alley’s provides top-to-bottom thrills for experienced riders. Seven Springs has expanded lesson offerings to include full and half-day children’s group lessons. The resort offers on-site lodging, an indoor pool, arcade, bowling, and snow tubing — everything you need for a complete family vacation. Seven Springs also features some of the best bike trails in PA during warmer months.
Best for: Multi-day family vacations | All skill levels | Resort amenities seekers
Season: December through March
Budget tip: Multi-day lodging packages include lift tickets and often provide the best overall value
20. Boyce Park Ski Area
Pittsburgh
10 trails | 5 lifts | 180 ft. vertical | 1 terrain park
Just outside Pittsburgh, Boyce Park Ski Area delivers winter fun with big energy and easy city access. With 10 slopes, snowboarding terrain, cross-country trails, and snow tubing, it’s the only place in the Allegheny County Parks system offering downhill skiing and tubing. Night skiing keeps the action going after dark, with the Four Seasons Lodge serving as your warm-up hub. Set across 1,096 acres in Monroeville and Plum Townships, the park is named for William D. Boyce, founder of the Boy Scouts of America. When the snow melts, hiking trails, sports fields, a wave pool, skate park, and archery range keep the adventure rolling year-round.
Best for: Pittsburgh-area families | Affordable ski experiences
Season: December through March
Budget tip: LIft tickets for children under the age of 5 are free
Looking for more outdoor adventure inspiration this season? Explore our website for winter activities both the kids and parents will enjoy.