Winter is a magical time. The cold, the snow, the fuzzy sweaters, the peppermint hot chocolate with a hint of something stronger for the grownups … no? Just us? Well, in any case, everyone can appreciate walking in a winter wonderland. Or better yet, skiing in it.
The Poconos is the perfect destination for anyone who loves to combine the majesty of the outdoors with some good old-fashioned exercise. And if you’re looking for fun the whole family can enjoy, even if you’ve never set ski on a bunny slope before, Skytop Lodge is the perfect place to stay.
You can’t go wrong with perfection all around, now can you? Read on to learn more about the best skiing in the Poconos, where to go for beginners, cost and other FAQs, and more.
The Pocono Mountains are rightly considered one of America’s most beautiful playgrounds. With more than 2,200 square miles of mountains, beaches, waterfalls, lakes, trails and bridges, you can’t go wrong planning a vacation here any time of year. In the winter, though, it is especially enchanting.
Skytop Lodge is nestled right in the heart of the mountains, with 5,500 acres of lush Northeastern forestland and snow-covered vista after snow-covered vista. In addition to a range of lodging, dining and adventure options, we also offer skiing rentals and classes for those who want to indulge in this most wintertime of sports.
While Skytop sees its share of advanced skiers, most of our guests are novices who want the experience without the expertise … and we deliver! Our Ski Hill is located a beautiful 15-minute walk or short shuttle ride away, with a lift and a gentle slope that’s ideal for beginners and the whole family.
Have more questions? We have more answers.
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions we get from Skytop lodge guests and other visitors from out of town.
Q: How much does it cost?
A: Lift tickets are required if you want to ski or snowboard. They cost $10 each for guests and $20 for those who aren’t staying at Skytop. If you take a skiing or snowboarding lesson, the fee is included in the cost of the lesson.
Q: How much is a lesson?
A: Private lessons cost $100 per person and group lessons for 2-6 people cost $85 per person. If you opt for a group lesson, you must choose one sport or the other; you cannot combine them.
Q: Is gear rental included?
A: No, gear rental is separate both from the lift ticket and from the cost of private lessons. Please arrive an hour before you intend to begin skiing or snowboarding so you can get fitted. Gear costs $30 per day for guests and $45 for those who aren’t staying at Skytop.
Q: Are there age restrictions?
A: Yes. Skiing lessons start at age 4 and snowboarding at age 7. There is no maximum age for lessons, so as long as you’re young enough at heart, come on down!
Q: What if we don’t want to ski?
A: No problem! We also offer snow tubing, a sport that requires absolutely no training! Guests only pay $15 per person ($20 for those not staying at Skytop) for an hour, so you’ll have plenty of time to zip down the hill and eat some snow.
Additionally, Skytop Lodge offers a variety of winter activities off the slopes, discussed below.
Wondering how many ski mountains there are in the Poconos? Wonder no longer. This craggy area has plenty of options for the more advanced skier. Some of the best ski resort Poconos options include:
Not a ski fan? Here are a few other activities to consider for your winter trip.
Skiing isn’t the only option for the adventurous at heart. If you’re looking for other playful outdoor activities in winter, you’ll find them here at Skytop Lodge. Our perfect cold-weather escape not only includes plenty of places to kick back at the end of a long day – like our grand inn or the Library Lounge – but you’ll find lots of things to fill that day as well!
Here are some of the best winter activities to try at our premier family resort.
Who doesn’t love tramping through the snow on a giant pair of tennis rackets? No one doesn’t, which is why Skytop Lodge is proud to offer this ancient pastime. Gear is complimentary for resort guests.
Hiking is fun, classic and free. Enjoy our miles of trails year round, but note that trails may be limited in winter. Make sure to check which trails are open before embarking on a hike, and always bring plenty of food and water, even if you don’t think you’ll be out very long.
Want to make like the pioneers and learn to throw an axe? This activity is safe, fun and great for a crowd. Participants must be 14 years of age or older and close-toed shoes are required. The cost is $30 for an hour, including gear and coaching.
What’s this? More pioneer skills? Yep, this time it’s rifle shooting, another excellent way to test your old-school abilities. Sessions are also $30 per person and include eight shots, though you can purchase additional ammo if you’re having too much fun to leave.
Warm indoor sports more your thing? Check out the indoor pool at Skytop lodge, with a lap lane, general swim area, hot tub and kiddie pool. Whether you sit poolside and read a book or jump in, it’s fun for the whole family!
Ready to enjoy some skiing, show your family a wonderful time and make the most of what winter has to offer? Then it’s time to book your stay in the Poconos today! Here at Skytop, we offer numerous lodging and dining options on our 5,500 acres of pristine winter playground. No matter what you want your vacation to look like, we would be honored to help make your dreams a reality.
To book your family vacation to the Poconos, call us at 855-345-7759 or check availability online. We’d love to see you!