Set your sights on the Pocono Mountains this winter for a cross-country skiing and snowshoeing adventure. There’s nothing like the freshly fallen snow on the trails, the crisp cool wind nipping at your nose and an open trail just ready to be explored. No matter your skill level, you’ll be able to experience this wonderful activity that has been around for many years. Pennsylvania is home to lots of great spots to experience cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
Check out a few of our favorite places to go cross-country skiing and snowshoeing!
The excitement of planning a trip is just the beginning. Once you’ve decided to join us for a getaway, be sure to download our free Delaware Highlands Vacation Guide. In addition to cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, this guide is packed with helpful tips on what to do and see once you arrive!
Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area
Perfect for a day trip from Hawley is the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area. The McDade Recreation Trail is a great location to enjoy cross-country skiing. The trail runs the length of the park and is mostly flat. The scenery is worth the trip as most of the waterfalls freeze during the wintertime. It’s a beautiful area.
The Adventure Center at Skytop Lodge
Skytop Lodge is a short 40-minute drive from Hawley, PA. Once there, you will find over 5,500 acres of winter recreation. If you are a beginner, Skytop Lodge offers the Trout Stream Trail for easy and flat cross-country skiing. Once you have reached the end, you will see the breathtaking 3 level waterfall: Indian Level Falls.
Promised Land State Park
At less than 20 miles from Hawley, PA, you will find both snowshoeing and cross-country skiing at Promised Land State Park. Weather permitting, the Bruce Lake Natural Area at Promised Land State Park is one of the best spots for cross-country skiing. No snowshoes? No problem. Simply visit their office with a photo ID and you’ll be able to rent a pair and start exploring!
Gouldsboro State Park
Gouldsboro State Park is another quick day trip from The Settlers Inn. The park offers 2,800 acres of land. Once there, check out the park’s 5.7-mile Gouldsboro State Park Trail. The trail can be accessed year-round and is a great location for cross-country skiing. While there, you should also check out Old Route 611 for an easy 1.25-mile hike. The trail is perfect for cross-country skiing because of its flat terrain.
Return to The Settlers Inn to warm up, relax and unwind.
After a day spent out on the trails, warm up by the crackling fire right here at The Settlers Inn in Hawley, PA. Our Inn offers 23 spacious and beautifully decorated guest rooms with private bathroom. Most rooms feature a seasonal fireplace and Jacuzzi tub ideal for warming up and soaking after a day out and about. There’s no need to leave the property for dinner as we have an award-winning farm to table restaurant on site. Our Executive Chef creates seasonal, mouth-watering menus using local ingredients.
Here at The Settlers Inn, there is no shortage of events to partake in while you’re here. December is a wonderful time to visit as we will be having our Candlelight Dinner, Winterfest Brunch and our New Year’s Eve event. We would love to host you and your family on your Pocono Mountains getaway.