As winter blankets Lackawanna County with a pristine layer of snow, it's the perfect time to explore the outdoor wonders that the season brings. From exhilarating sledding to the grace of ice skating, Lackawanna County offers a myriad of winter activities that will make your heart race with excitement.
Escape to Montage Mountain Resorts
Experience the ultimate winter getaway at Montage Mountain Resorts, Lackawanna County's premier destination for winter sports and outdoor adventures. Conveniently located in Scranton and nestled in the scenic slopes surrounding Lackawanna County, Montage Mountain Resorts offers a variety of exciting activities for visitors of all ages.
Hit the slopes on 26 exhilarating trails with 1,000 vertical feet of Pennsylvania’s finest terrain. Whether you’re a seasoned skier or a first-time snowboarder, there’s something for everyone, including a brand-new terrain park set to kick off early in the season and ready to deliver thrills. Expert ski instructors offer ski lessons for both kids and adults, ensuring everyone can enjoy their time on the mountain. Plus, with fully lit trails for night skiing and snowboarding, the adventure doesn’t stop when the sun sets. Open daily, Montage Mountain Resorts is your go-to winter destination for action, excitement, and unforgettable memories!
Joyful Sleigh Riding
If sledding is more your speed, Lackawanna County offers an unforgettable sledding experience with hills for every skill level.
Aylesworth Park, nestled amidst the tranquil landscapes, provides families and friends with ample slopes and open spaces perfect for sledding adventures. The rolling hills and scenic vistas make every run down the snow-covered slopes thrilling and memorable. In Lackawanna State Park, the snowy terrain transforms into a winter wonderland, offering both gentle slopes for beginners and more challenging runs for thrill-seekers. With its sprawling woodlands and frozen lakes, Lackawanna State Park becomes a haven for sleigh riders of all ages. McDade Park, with its expansive fields and winding trails, provides the perfect canvas for sledding escapades.
Or embrace the thrill of snow tubing as you take on the snow-covered slopes of Lackawanna County for an exhilarating ride!
Aylesworth Park / Photo by IG User @goproherodad
Graceful Ice Skating
Lace up your skates and twirl across the ice at Lackawanna County's charming parks.
Hillside Park stands out as a unique destination, offering not only the joy of ice skating but also a commitment to safety. It is the only park in Lackawanna County that actively checks the ice thickness and diligently maintains the ice for a secure and enjoyable experience.
For those seeking a more rustic and natural setting, Lackawanna State Park provides a section cleared specifically for ice skating. While the park doesn't actively monitor ice thickness, it offers a serene environment where skaters can revel in the joys of gliding over the frozen surface, surrounded by the peaceful winter landscape.
Hillside Park / Photo by Nicole Krewson
Frosty Off-Roading
Experience the thrill of winter at The Lost Trails ATV Adventures in Dunmore, where snow-dusted trails and frosty landscapes set the stage for the ultimate off-road adventure. Ride to the breathtaking Top of the World scenic vista for stunning panoramic views that make the journey unforgettable. Whether you bring your own ATV, UTV, or dirt bike, or schedule a guided tour, Lost Trails offers well-maintained routes that wind through snow-covered forests and rugged hillsides. Perfect for both first-time riders and seasoned off-roaders, this winter adventure promises an exhilarating ride and spectacular scenery you won’t want to miss!
The Lost Trail ATV Adventures / Photo by IG User @lrussophoto
Ice Fishing Tranquility
Experience the serenity of ice fishing in Lackawanna County. Lackawanna State Park and Merli-Sarnoski Park are two prime Lackawanna County locations that offer exceptional ice fishing opportunities.
These frozen landscapes provide the perfect setting for anglers to enjoy the solitude and beauty of winter while trying their luck at catching fish beneath the icy surface. Before embarking on your ice fishing adventure, be sure to check local regulations and safety guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Lackawanna State Park / Photo by B Jacob Reddock
Snowshoeing, Cross-Country Skiing, and Hiking Serenity
Embrace the serene beauty of winter in Lackawanna County by exploring our scenic trails and parks. Whether you enjoy hiking, snowshoeing, or cross-country skiing, the region offers a variety of outdoor experiences perfect for all skill levels. From snow-covered paths to tranquil wooded landscapes, there’s a winter trail waiting for you.
Try snowshoeing across the peaceful, snow-blanketed terrain. If you don’t have gear, Lackawanna State Park makes it easy with free snowshoe loaners when there are 6 inches or more of snow on the ground. Or purchase snowshoes and cross-country skis at the Ski Shack on Montage Mountain to gear up for your next adventure. The Pinchot Trail at Pinchot State Forest also provides a scenic escape, perfect for snowshoeing through quiet forests.
Cross-country skiers can glide through winter’s beauty on trails that deliver both relaxation and adventure. After fresh snowfall, the Lackawanna River Heritage Trail offers smooth, gentle terrain ideal for beginners and seasoned skiers alike. Additional options include Lackawanna State Park and the four Lackawanna County Parks, where a mix of open fields and wooded paths promises a rewarding winter outing.
No matter how you choose to explore—on foot, on skis, or with snowshoes—Lackawanna County’s parks and trails offer the perfect escape to embrace the season and enjoy the frosty beauty of the great outdoors.
Merli-Sarnoski Park
Winter Events Extravaganza
Don't miss out on the vibrant winter events that bring the community together. The Clarks Summit Festival of Ice transforms the town into a frozen wonderland with intricately carved ice sculptures. The event also features live bands, games, horse-drawn carriage rides, and a spectacular parade.
Downtown on Ice offers a unique experience in the heart of the Downtown Scranton Business District. With yearly themes, it promises a family-friendly spectacle with creative ice carving displays, a curling rink, live entertainment, selfie stations, and delectable eats and drinks at downtown businesses.
Wrap up the season with Mountainfest at Montage Mountain Resorts, a thrilling two-day festival packed with excitement. Highlights include high-energy live concerts, the always-entertaining Cardboard Classic, daring pond skimming, and a breathtaking fireworks finale that lights up the winter sky.
Clarks Summit Festival of Ice
Lackawanna County invites you to embrace the winter chill with open arms and experience the joy of outdoor activities. Check out all of our seasonal events to plan your winter escapades and make the most of the season in Lackawanna County.
