Things to do in the winter in the poconos

Although these are uncertain times, it’s still safe to come out and play. Check out these 7 winter activities in the Pocono Mountains for social distancing. Bundle up and head outdoors to take advantage of the avalanche of things to do during the colder months.

1. Skiing

Ski Big Bear at Masthope Mountain is the closest ski area to Silver Birches. There are 26 skiable acres, 18 trails and six lifts, not to mention a terrain park for snowboarding. The elevation at the top is 1,250 feet and skiers can enjoy a 650-foot vertical drop on the slopes. There are six trails classified as beginner, five intermediate and seven advanced runs.

2. Ice Skating

For a sense of nostalgia and exhilaration, there’s nothing quite like skating atop a frozen lake or pond. When conditions permit, you can glide right outside your door here at Silver Birches. Lake Wallenpaupack makes for a rink like no other and gives you a unique experience atop the water. Ice skating is also possible at nearby Promised Land State Park. With a smaller surface area and shallower depth, Promised Land Lake may freeze over to the proper thickness even sooner.

3. Snowtubing

The experience of spinning and sliding down a mountainside is a thrill at any age. Ski Big Bear at Masthope Mountain offers two tubing lanes that each run 500 feet. A Magic Carpet transports riders back to the top for another slide.

4. Snowmobiling

Those looking for high octane winter fun will find it in snowmobiling. Promised Land State Park boasts over 23 miles of groomed, designated snowmobile trails. Riders may traverse through state park and state forest lands on specially marked orange trails beginning in late December. The adjacent Delaware State Forest maintains 115 miles of snowmobile trails. There are plenty of options for long or short rides on the trails system. Snowmobiles must be registered and insured.

5. Ice Fishing

Frigid temperatures don’t have to put your fishing hobby on ice. Lake Wallenpaupack is a popular destination for anglers year-round. Stake a claim on your own corner of ice and drop a line for bass, trout, perch, and varieties of panfish. Experience the serenity and beauty of your frozen surroundings.

6. Sledding

Toboggan, flexible flyer or snow saucer- whatever your preferred mode of transportation- sledding is the quintessential wintertime activity. As expected, the Pocono Mountains offer plenty of sledding hills. The trick is to find an open incline with an ample landing pad. Prompton State Park offers a few spaces that match that description. The 2,000-acre park is just off of Route 6 between Honesdale and Hawley.

7. Snowshoeing

Not only will you feel like a real explorer making tracks in untrodden snow, it’s also a great cardio workout. Snowshoeing burn more calories than simply walking and it’s a low impact exercise. McDade Trail runs the length of Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area. Unspoiled vistas and frozen features make for an ideal day spent snowshoeing here. Bruce Lake Natural Area at Promised Land State Park is one of the best spots for cross-country skiing in the region. The park also offers a snowshoe loaner program. Visit the park office with a photo ID and you’ll be able to rent a pair for a day of trekking.

Wonders of Winter

After a day of winter activities in the Pocono Mountains, return for hot cocoa by the fire. Accommodations at Silver Birches are comfortable and cozy. Plan a winter getaway to stay lakeside. Enjoy the quiet, calm of a frozen landscape and welcoming warmth of our signature hospitality. Take a look at the resort specials, check availability and book your stay.