Ready or not, winter is in full effect in our area, but those low temps, however, do not mean that there is no fun to be had. For us New Jersey residents, we really do have it all: close proximity to major cities, world-class beaches, and yes — ski resorts. When a trip out West just isn’t in your budget or time off allotment, consider heading to one of these local ski areas for some winter fun. Here are some ski resorts within two hours of Hoboken and Jersey City:
Camelback Mountain — 301 Resort Drive, Tannersville, PA {1.5 hour drive}
With 38 ski trails with 16 lifts, Camelback has been voted the #1 resort for skiing and snowboarding in Pennsylvania for a reason. Whether a beginner or an advanced skier, there’s something for everyone to get that adrenaline racing. Tired of just going downhill? Hit up the terrain park and show off those skills. Or, if someone in your group isn’t into skiing or snowboarding, rest assured — some time on the mountain is still possible with snow tubing. The best part is that all of the trails are lit and fully equipped for night skiing/snowboarding and galactic snow tubing. No snow, no problem! Camelback is fully equipped with 1200 snowmaking guns that can produce one foot of snow in one hour. When it’s time to get out of the cold, hit up the lodge’s indoor waterpark or one of three ski-in/ski-out restaurants. The lodge itself boasts 453 rooms at the base of the mountain and offers a spa to soothe those aching muscles after being out on the slopes all day.
Mountain Creek — 123 Route 94, Vernon, NJ {1 hour 15-minute drive}
As New Jersey’s largest ski area, Mountain Creek is truly a destination. 46 trails await skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels and even those who can’t ski and prefer to snow tube. 167 skiable acres on four mountain peaks means there is no shortage of fun. When snow isn’t in the forecast, Mountain Creek has it covered with the most extensive snowmaking capabilities in the region. A slew of lodging options boasts a wide array of amenities for those looking to unwind after a day on the slopes.
Shawnee Mountain Ski Area — 401 Hollow Road, East Stroudsburg, PA {1.5 hour drive}
Terrain parks, snow tubing, and 23 slopes and trails make up the Shawnee ski area and allow for endless hours of fun. The mountain is fully equipped with snowmaking machines and a full snow tubing park which means the fun never has to ends. Numerous condo options and hotels in the area allow visitors to make a full weekend of it.
Blue Mountain Resort — 1660 Blue Mountain Drive, Palmerton, PA {2 hour drive}
Blue Mountain Resort has all the amenities that the other mountains have like 39 slopes, terrain parks, and snow tubing runs. What sets it apart, however, is the fact that it is the state’s highest vertical which makes for longer runs. When everyone’s tired out from a day on the slopes, grab a bite at one of the many local restaurants before calling it a night at a nearby condo.
READ: Watergrasshill Bead & Breakfast {A Weekend Getaway to New Paltz}
Bear Creek Mountain Resort — 101 Doe Mountain Lane, Lehigh Valley, PA {2 hour drive}
Check in to a guest room at Bear Creek Mountain Resort before hitting one of their 23 trails and three terrain parks. Morning, noon, or night, it doesn’t matter when you ski, snowboard or tube as the mountain is fully equipped with lights on the trails. The mountain has full snowmaking capabilities, which means the fun does not have to end! Kick back at the end of the day at the hotel before heading out to the slopes again in the morning.
Jack Frost – Big Boulder Mountain {two ski areas combined into one} — 357 Big Boulder Drive, Lake Harmony, PA + 434 Jack Frost Mountain Road, White Haven, PA {2 hour drive}
When Big Boulder first opened in the 1940s, it was the first commercial ski resort in Pennsylvania. They were also pioneers in snowmaking, having been the first mountain to successfully manufacture snow for public use. Over the years, the owners of Big Boulder learned a lot about how to improve their ski area and it was from these learnings that Jack Frost came to be in the 1970s. Today, these two companion ski areas have combined to form JFBB. A combined 35 slopes make up the areas that are the first ski resorts to open in the entire state year after year. Because of their relation, visitors can use the same lift ticket on both mountains at a discounted rate. This means that you can ski, snowboard, and snow tube in a new setting whenever wanting a change of scenery.
Ski Big Bear at Masthope Mountain — 192 Karl Hope Boulevard, Lackawaxen, PA {2 hour drive}
Beginner trails to double black diamonds make up the 18 trails that Big Bear has to offer. Snowmakers kick into full swing when winter just doesn’t cooperate, allowing skiers and snowboarders to sail down the slopes without a hitch. For those who don’t have the need for speed, consider trekking on Masthope Mountain’s cross-country ski trails.
There is clearly no shortage of winter fun to be had nearby. Head out and get some fresh air in the mountains and take in the beautiful scenery. You won’t believe that it’s just a short drive away from the city.
Where’s your favorite place to ski/snowboard in the winter? Share with us in the comments below!
See More: A Winter Getaway to Lake Placid, New York
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