When you think of ski destinations, Philadelphia might not be the first place that comes to mind. However, Pennsylvania and its neighboring states in the mid-Atlantic and Northeast do offer some fantastic ski resorts. If you’re not familiar with the options, you might miss out on some great skiing spots. To help you get started, here’s our list of the top ski areas near Philadelphia.
Blue Mountain
Blue Mountain boasts the highest vertical drop among the listed mountains and is one of the closest and largest ski resorts near Philadelphia. The lift tickets are reasonably priced compared to many other resorts, and night skiing is available on numerous trails.
– Location: 1660 Blue Mountain Drive, Palmerton, PA
– Stats: 39 Trails / 16 Lifts / 1082 ft vertical
– Ticket Prices: $50 – $65
– Website: Ski Blue Mountain
Camelback Ski Area
Camelback was my go-to mountain in my childhood, and despite my bias, it’s genuinely one of the largest mountains in the Poconos. Located about 90 minutes from Philadelphia, Camelback features 38 trails serviced by 16 lifts, offering a good range of terrain from beginner to expert.
– Location: 301 Resort Dr., Tannersville, PA
– Stats: 39 Trails / 16 Lifts / 800 ft vertical
– Tickets: $40 – $70
– Website: Ski Camelback
Shawnee Mountain
Often overshadowed by its larger neighbors, Shawnee Mountain offers a variety of terrain without the crowded slopes. It’s a great option for mixing up your ski trips, and its longest trail stretches nearly a mile.
– Location: 401 Hollow Rd, East Stroudsburg, PA
– Stats: 23 Trails / 11 Lifts / 650 ft vertical
– Tickets: $55 – $65
– Website: Shawnee Mountain
Elk Mountain
Elk Mountain, one of my personal favorites, is the furthest from Philly on this list. Nestled in the Endless Mountain Range, north of the Poconos, Elk often has better snow conditions than its competitors and maintains a more locally run feel.
– Location: 344 Elk Mountain Rd, Union Dale, PA
– Stats: 27 Trails / 6 Lifts / 1000 ft vertical
– Tickets: Visit the website for the latest pricing
– Website: Elk Mountain
Jack Frost / Big Boulder
Jack Frost and Big Boulder are two separate mountains but are covered by the same ticket. Together, they offer 36 trails, although traveling between the two is necessary. Big Boulder is known for its night skiing, so you can extend your day on the slopes.
– Location: 434 Jack Frost Mountain Rd, White Haven, PA (JF) | 357 Big Boulder Drive, Lake Harmony, PA (BB)
– Stats: 20 JF / 15 BB Trails / 12 JF / 10 BB Lifts / 475 ft (BB) | 600 ft (JF) vertical
– Tickets: $50 – $65
– Website: Jack Frost / Big Boulder
Montage Mountain
Montage Mountain is a bit farther than some other options (though closer than Elk), but it offers extensive terrain and excellent vertical drops. Its proximity to Scranton means there are plenty of activities and accommodations if you choose to spend the night. They also offer discounted tickets for those skiing Monday to Wednesday (excluding holidays).
– Location: 1000 Montage Mountain Rd, Scranton, PA
– Stats: 26 Trails / 7 Lifts / 1000 ft vertical
– Tickets: $58 – $67
– Website: Montage Mountain Resorts
Do you have a favorite ski resort in Pennsylvania or New Jersey that’s a short drive from Philadelphia? Are there any other spots you would recommend or have opinions on the ones listed above? We’d love to hear from you!
