If you’ve never experienced a Pennsylvania winter, it’s something you don’t want to miss out on in your lifetime. It truly turns the landscape into a winter wonderland with lots to do and see and there’s tons of fun to be had. Here’s our collection of the top five things to do in Central Pennsylvania during the winter.
Ice skate on a frozen lake
You haven’t really ice skated until you’ve done it on a frozen lake. Ice skating at a rink just isn’t the same! The Outlet Pond in Eagles Mere, PA is a location that freezes thick enough in the winter where it’s safe to skate. Weather permitting, you can skate during the day or at night. We recommend going to skate after a fresh snow. It provides a magical backdrop. While skates and skills aren’t included, you’re sure to create some new memories and have a wonderful time.
Take a ride on the Eagles Mere toboggan slide
The toboggan slide in Eagles Mere is a winter-exclusive activity, and the track runs nearly across Eagles Mere lake. Toboggan speeds can reach up to 60 miles per hour! Created by the Eagles Mere volunteer fire company, the ice toboggan slide has been delighting winter visitors since 1904. Riders can also enjoy a cup of hot cocoa and other refreshments at the site’s snack shack, purchase a souvenir or warm up by the fire.
Go skiing through the Endless Mountains
The Crystal Lake Ski Center located in Hughesville, PA offers over 960 acres of land for cross-country skiing. There’s lots of trails to choose from for the beginner to expert skier. If you’re not from central Pennsylvania, this location offers rentals and lessons to beginners and non-locals. There are other outdoor recreation activities such as their famous snow bowl, hiking trails, lakes to fish and more.
If you’re from the area or consider yourself an expert skier, go where the locals go! Just 1.5 blocks away from the Eagles Mere Conservancy Trails and the Eagles Mere Lake, you can literally ski out your door and hit a trail. If you’re a more adventurous and skilled skier, try the Wyoming State Forest.
Explore the area’s covered bridges
The covered bridges around Central Pennsylvania will take you back in time. During the winter, the fallen leaves and snow-covered branches make for an excellent backdrop. By taking a couple hours out of your day to visit these 100-year-old structures that span various creeks and rivers, you’ll get a magnificent look at the area and the winter wonderland it is during this time of year.
Spend the night
To truly experience a Pennsylvania winter, you should stay the night. There’s nothing more nostalgic than curling up with a hot cup of cocoa or tea after a long day outdoors and getting a perfect night’s sleep in a quilt covered bed. If you’re looking to fully experience the winter lifestyle Central Pennsylvania has to offer, stay at the Eagles Mere Inn.
The Eagles Mere Inn has 17 uniquely themed, cozy rooms designed to mirror the country life that surrounds them. It’s the perfect place to spend the night after experiencing all the winter treasures Central Pennsylvania has to offer and it’s located in the heart of this region, near all the exciting activities listed above. For more information, visit eaglesmereinn.com.