Seeking a great adventure for your next winter? Then it is time for you to know about the greatest winter adventure destination, that is Poconos. The Mountains of Poconos also known as the “Winter Wonderland” were always popular for its adverse winter activities and mainly the hiking experience during the cold season. Hiking in the Poconos during the advent season is such a unique experience as the whole landscape covered in snow is a feast for the naked eyes.
Did you know that there are more than 126 trails spread across the region for winter hiking? Yes, you heard it right! There are a multitude of options present for you at Poconos for your next hiking adventure in the winter. Moreover, the region has been home to hiking that ranges from easy to extreme difficulties.
Now, in this blog, I’ll guide you through the various winter hiking trails and how you could conquer them without any worries. So, make sure you stay with me until the end to know more about the fun adventures of Poconos during the snowy season.
Laying The Groundwork For Your Winter Hiking Experience
Hiking in the winter can be extremely amusing yet there are some really important things you should have both in your backpacks and minds before heading out. These are all the very essentials or gears that helped in making my best winter hikes:
- Wool Socks
- Sweater/Jackets
- Softshell Pants
- Waterproof Shell
- Balaclava
- WinterHat
- Winter Hiking Boots
- Liner Gloves
- Ski Goggles
- Backpack
- Emergency Kit
- First Aid Kit
- Flashlight/Headlamp
- Kettle
- Sleeping Bag
- Extra Food
- Navigation
And it doesn’t end with the items, there are some more safety measures to take as every sport has its own dangers, so it is always advised to take the necessary precaution beforehand. Lemme take you through them:
- Check the Weather and trail conditions
- Don’t take risk while hiking in the snow
- Wear something sturdy, waterproof and warm with insulated footwear- always gear up
- Stay hydrated
- Inform someone of your plans and location before heading out
- Try to travel in groups
- Carry all the essentials as listed above especially survival kits
The Distinct Winter Hiking Trails in Poconos
The Mountains of Poconos are filled with several trails for hiking, snowshoeing, running and many other activities. In my recent visit to Poconos, I was able to experience some of the really thrilling and captivating trails in the region with alluring scenery through winter hiking alongside many other winter adventures. Allow me to show you the best trails for winter hiking in Poconos.
1. Hawk Falls Trail
One of the easiest trails in the region which displays fascinating views of nature. Yes, that’s right, Hawk Falls which is situated at the Hickory Run State Park offers the visitors with many options than just winter hiking. The visitors could witness the wildlife, the frozen waterfalls and rivers during the winter. Moreover, you can even bring your dogs alongside on leash. Hawk Falls trail is one of the easy winter hikes near me when I was in Hickory Run State. Here are some of the details of the trail.
| Location | Hickory Run State Park |
| Length | 1.9 km |
| Route Type | Out & Back |
| Difficulty | Easy |
2. Bear Creek Preserve Red Loop Trail
Situated at Wilkes-Barre, this trail is for the ones who are short on time but still want to experience the winter waterfall experience. It took me almost 1h and 8 mins to complete the trail which makes it one of the easiest trails in the region. Moreover, you could even witness many wildlife, rivers and landscape views all around the region.
| Location | Natural Land’s Bear Creek Preserve |
| Length | 4.7 km |
| Route Type | Loop |
| Difficulty | Easy |
3. Mount Minsi Via Appalachian Trail
I came upon this trail when I was seeking great and beautiful winter hikes near me in Delaware. Now this trail might be a moderately challenging one. Located at the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, this trail is popular for hiking in all the seasons and is beautiful to visit anytime.
The region is known as the winter paradise with several gorgeous waterfalls and is considered as the perfect spot for experiencing winter hiking. Moreover, the trail is well marked and groomed throughout the whole year and has many spots for quick breaks and picnics for a perfect family reunion.
| Location | Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area |
| Length | 7.7 km |
| Route Type | Loop |
| Difficulty | Moderate |
4. Tobyhanna State Park Lakeside Loop Trail
One of the popular trails in the region which is generally mentioned as an easy trail and takes almost 1h and 45 mins to complete. The trail is extremely fun for winter hiking, cross country skiing and snowshoeing during winter. I found this trail when I searched for a snowshoe trail near me in Tobyhanna and trust me it is worth visiting at least twice.
| Location | Tobyhanna State Park |
| Length | 8.2 km |
| Route Type | Loop |
| Difficulty | Easy |
5. Ridley Creek State Park White to Yellow Trail Loop
Located near Gradyville in Ridley Creek State Park, this trail is moderately challenging yet can be completed within 2 hours. It is one of the renowned trails in the region which is open all year for the visitors offering beautiful sightseeing opportunities during the winter. If you are visiting the Poconos at Christmas season then this trail is open for winter hiking, cross country skiing, snowshoeing and many others.
| Location | Ridley Creek State Park |
| Length | 7.7 km |
| Route Type | Loop |
| Difficulty | Moderate |
Tips & Tricks for Winter Hiking in Poconos
Hiking during the winter season could be a bit difficult as it was for me at first but after following my guide’s instructions it became much easier. Let me brief you with some tips and tricks to enhance your winter hike experience in Poconos.
- Wear winter clothes to keep you warm
- Carry a map/gps/compass to know where you are going
- Snowshoes and Traction Devices are necessary
- Always keep your legs off of the ice
- In case of emergency contact contact or seek an emergency shelter
- Keeping watching out for the wildlife
Signing Off!
So, now that we have gone through the various hiking trails and tips on how to successfully complete a perfect winter hike, it is time for you to plan your trip to Poconos. I’m sure that you have received a pretty great idea about how amusing the regions of the Poconos are and how thrilling the hiking in the snow during winter is. However, always make sure to follow the instructions I’ve given and take good care of your essentials and respect the environment.
Moreover, before heading out, don’t forget to book an ideal staycation for you. Don’t worry about that because We HolidayKeepers can provide you with the perfect and luxurious rentals for you alongside the ultimate amenities and hospitality in Poconos.
Contact Us for any further queries.
Paul P, Senior Editor and Travel Planner at HolidayKeepers, brings over 10 years of experience from New York. He expertly combines storytelling with extensive knowledge in travel and hospitality. Known for turning vibrant travel experiences into engaging articles, Paul covers everything from hidden gems to the latest in vacation rentals, resonating with adventurers and leisure-seekers alike.
