There are few better places than the Pocono Mountains when it comes to East Coast skiing. The Poconos of northeast Pennsylvania offers a winter wonderland of activities for visitors. With more than 185 mountain slopes, hundreds of trails, countless outdoor adventures and natural beauty, there is something for everyone in the Poconos.
We’ve put together a four-day itinerary for the ultimate ski experience. This winter road trip includes some of the best resorts in the area and recommendations for restaurants and lodging. So whether you’re a first-time skier or a seasoned pro, this trip has something for everyone.
If you’re flying into the area, we recommend booking a flight to Wilkes-Barre/Scranton International Airport, located just 30 miles north of our first East Coast ski destination. Arrive the night before—especially if you want to make first chair!
DAY 1 – JACK FROST & BIG BOULDER SKI RESORT
The first day of your trip starts with a visit to Big Boulder Mountain. The Jack Frost Ski Resort offers guests two experiences on the same lift ticket. Visitors can ski or snowboard the trails at Jack Frost or the Big Boulder ski area. Many amenities, including ski schools, equipment rentals and aprés-ski activities, are also available.
Big Boulder is ideal for beginners, with gentle slopes and plenty of beginner-friendly trails. After a few runs down the slopes, you can warm up with a cup of hot cocoa at one of the on-site cafes. Intermediate and advanced skiers will enjoy the lifts at Jack Frost. No matter which trails you choose, stunning views of the Pocono Mountains are guaranteed.
After a long day on the slopes, you’ll be ready for a delicious dinner. Luckily, there are plenty of great restaurants nearby. The Boulder View Tavern is an inviting place to relax and enjoy a cold drink, good food and great views. You can dine on the deck or relax inside, enjoying stunning views of Lake Harmony while savoring every bite of your meal.
Where to Stay Near Big Boulder
For your first night in the Poconos, the Split Rock Resort is conveniently located near Lake Harmony. Not only is it close to the ski trails, but it also has its own indoor waterpark, 8-lane bowling alley, arcade and movie theater. There are three different restaurants on-site, so you’re sure to find something to your taste.
Get a good night’s sleep because tomorrow is going to be exciting!
DAY 2 – BLUE MOUNTAIN RESORT
After breakfast at your hotel, it’s time to hit the slopes again. This time, you’re headed to Blue Mountain Resort. The resort is a short drive from Jack Frost and Big Boulder, and it offers guests a variety of activities to enjoy.
Spend the morning on a few runs down the slopes. Blue Mountain has plenty of trails to choose from, ranging from beginner to expert difficulty levels. And if you’re feeling adventurous, the resort has a terrain park to practice your tricks and jumps. This mountain also boasts the state’s highest vertical drop for the advanced rider—1,082 feet—for a truly thrilling experience.
Once you’ve worked up an appetite, it’s time for lunch. The resort has several on-site restaurants, including the popular Slopeside Pub and Grill. The pub offers a variety of delicious burgers and sandwiches.
In the afternoon, explore the rest of the resort. Blue Mountain offers a wide variety of activities, including sledding, tubing and ice skating. You can also take a scenic chairlift ride to the summit of the mountain to enjoy stunning views of the surrounding area.
When you’re ready to call it a day, The Lodge at Woodstone Country Club is the perfect place to gather with friends and family for dinner. You’ll enjoy the welcoming social atmosphere, delicious food, and beautiful surroundings. The Woodstone team provides exceptional hospitality and ensures that you have a wonderful evening. For a refreshing night, stay at the Filbert Bed & Breakfast, where you’ll experience peak hospitality.
DAY 3 – CAMELBACK RESORT
A Poconos ski trip wouldn’t be complete without a visit to Camelback Resort. This popular resort is located in the heart of the Pocono Mountains and offers guests a wide variety of activities to enjoy.
With the biggest snow tubing park, an 800-foot vertical rise and 100% snow coverage, it’s no wonder this is a top spot for snow sports enthusiasts. With 39 trails to choose from, you’ll have a blast carving lines and finding fresh stashes. If you’re looking for a challenge, there are two terrain parks to test your skills.
When you need a break from the cold, warm up with indoor fun, including laser tag, arcade games, rock climbing and even a water park!
Where to Eat and Stay Near Camelback
After a full day of winter fun, you can relax and unwind at one of Camelback’s restaurants or bars. There are plenty of local restaurants nearby as well, including Zack’s Taco Shack, which offers a variety of Mexican-inspired dishes, including tacos, burritos, quesadillas and nachos. When you’re finally zonked, retire to your cozy room in the luxurious resort lodgings. Camelback has airy rooms and suites to make your night a restful one.
DAY 4 – SKI BIG BEAR
This is the final day of your ski trip, and there’s no better way to end it than with a visit to Ski Big Bear. After breakfast in Camelback, a winding winter drive takes you towards Ski Big Bear at Masthope Mountain. Coasting along the Delaware River that flows like a beautiful blue ribbon through the heart of the Pocono Mountains, the drive takes you through some of the most scenic parts of eastern Pennsylvania. Make sure to take a few stops along the way just for the views!
Ski Big Bear is located in Pike County and offers a wide variety of trails for all abilities, with the steepest vertical drop at nearly 650 feet. In addition to skiing and snowboarding, the resort also offers snow tubing and freestyle skiing. When you need a break from the cold, warm up by the fire with a hot chocolate or coffee.
Spend the evening relaxing in the hot tub or exploring the town of Lackawaxen. For dinner, head to The Summit Restaurant, which is located at the top of the mountain and offers an amazing view of the surrounding area.
Where to Stay Near Ski Big Bear
There are several accommodation options for tonight, ranging from hotels to bed and breakfast inns. The Woodloch Pines Resort is one of the most popular hotels in the area. This all-inclusive resort is known for being one of the best family resorts in America.
With its various trails, activities, and lodgings, the Pocono Mountains are the perfect place to enjoy a winter getaway.
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