Shawnee Mountain Skiing in the Poconos
Set in the middle of the Pocono Mountains, Shawnee Mountain offers one of the most welcoming and family-oriented experiences for skiing in Pennsylvania. Just about two hours from New York City and under two hours from Philadelphia, this independently owned resort stands out as a go-to destination for beginners, families, and anyone seeking a relaxed East Coast ski trip. With 125 acres of skiable terrain, reliable snowmaking, and a focus on fun over intensity, Shawnee Mountain skiing provides an approachable alternative to the steeper or more crowded resorts across Pennsylvania and the broader Northeast.
What truly sets Shawnee Mountain skiing apart is its family-focused ethos. As a family-owned operation since its founding in the 1970s, the resort prioritizes a supportive environment for all skill levels, especially newcomers and children. Unlike larger corporate-run mountains in the region—such as Blue Mountain with its more challenging vertical drops or Camelback with its busier vibe and additional attractions—Shawnee emphasizes ease, shorter lift lines, and a low-pressure atmosphere. Its 100% snowmaking coverage ensures consistent conditions even during variable East Coast winters, and extensive night skiing extends the fun well into the evening.
Let’s dig a little deeper and uncover why Shawnee Mountain skiing is truly a diamond in the rough.
Terrain and Trails
The mountain features a 700-foot vertical drop, from a base elevation of around 650 feet to a summit of 1,350 feet. This compact layout includes 23 trails spread across 125 acres, making navigation straightforward for families and groups.
Trail difficulty breaks down as approximately 43% beginner, 30% intermediate, and 26% advanced. Beginners benefit from gentle, wide-open slopes in the learning areas, ideal for building confidence without overwhelming terrain. Intermediates enjoy cruisy runs that allow for progression, while advanced skiers and riders find enough steeper pitches and challenges to keep things interesting—though the resort avoids extreme expert-only blacks found at places like Blue Mountain.
Blue Mountain: Everything You Need to Know
Freestyle enthusiasts appreciate the two terrain parks: the Delaware Park (a 3,000-foot setup with jumps, tabletops, spines, rails, and jib features) and the Country Club Park. These parks offer progressive features in a safe, family-friendly setting. The longest run stretches about a mile, and with most of the mountain lit for night skiing, you can extend your day on the slopes.
Ski Lifts and Mountain Operations
Shawnee operates nine lifts, headlined by the Tomahawk Express high-speed quad for quick access to upper terrain. Additional lifts include a regular quad, a double chair, and several surface lifts (including carpet lifts) dedicated to beginners and the snow tubing area. This mix keeps things efficient, with shorter wait times compared to busier Pennsylvania resorts.
Snowmaking covers 100% of the trails, paired with daily grooming to maintain smooth surfaces. Night skiing, typically available on weekends and select weekdays, lights up around 120 acres, making it easy for after-work or evening sessions—a big plus for visitors from nearby cities.
The compact mountain design contributes to a user-friendly experience, perfect for Shawnee Mountain skiing when you’re keeping an eye on kids or groups.
Shawnee Mountain lift ticket deals
Ski Season and Best Times to Visit
Shawnee Mountain skiing generally runs from late November (often post-Thanksgiving) through late March, depending on weather. The core season hits December through February for the most reliable snow and conditions. Average annual snowfall sits around 40 inches, but snowmaking fills in gaps during milder spells.
Typical operating hours include 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on weekdays (with limited nights) and 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. on weekends and holidays for full night access. Midweek visits often mean fewer crowds and more personal attention from instructors.
Where to Stay
While Shawnee Mountain lacks on-site lodging, excellent options sit just minutes away in the Poconos. The Shawnee Inn & Golf Resort, a historic property nearby, offers rooms, an indoor pool, spa services, firepits, and even on-site brewery experiences with live music—ideal for blending relaxation with your ski trip.
Other popular choices include chain hotels like Hampton Inn & Suites Stroudsburg (about 10-15 minutes away) for modern comforts and free breakfast, or cozy cottages and vacation rentals such as Echo Valley Cottages or Ridge Top Village at Shawnee for group stays with kitchens and privacy. Stroudsmoor Country Inn and various Airbnb-style homes provide scenic, peaceful bases.
Proximity to Interstate 80 makes access straightforward, and many properties offer easy drives to the mountain. Booking early for holidays ensures availability for your Shawnee Mountain skiing getaway.
Where to Eat
On-mountain dining keeps things convenient and casual. Hope Lodge Cafeteria serves hearty quick options like burgers, soups, and sandwiches. Trepp Lodge Food Court offers grab-and-go fare, while the Summit Lodge Bar provides drinks and light bites with panoramic views. The Greenhouse Café handles coffee and snacks, and Groomers Grill & Bar rounds out the lineup with American classics and cocktails.
The resort is cashless, and tailgating is permitted in parking lots for those who prefer bringing their own meals. For après-ski or off-mountain dining, nearby spots in East Stroudsburg or Stroudsburg include local favorites for pizza, Thai, Mexican, or pub fare.
These options complement Shawnee Mountain skiing with straightforward, family-friendly fuel-ups.
Renting Ski Gear
One of the resort’s standout features is its large rental facility—one of the biggest in the country—offering skis, snowboards, boots, poles, helmets, and even clothing. This makes it easy for travelers or beginners to arrive without gear.
Rentals include fittings, and daily packages cover essentials. Children’s programs often bundle rentals with lessons and lift tickets. Reserving ahead online streamlines the process, especially during peak times.
The extensive inventory minimizes waits, a real advantage for Shawnee Mountain skiing compared to smaller rental setups at other hills.
Activities Beyond Skiing
When you’re ready for a break from the slopes, Shawnee offers plenty to keep the fun going. The seven-lane snow tubing park delivers thrilling rides for all ages. Mini Monster Mountain provides a safe play area for young kids.
Nearby in the Poconos, winter options abound: snowshoeing or cross-country skiing on local trails, ice skating, horseback riding, or winter hikes in Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area. Indoor pools and spas at nearby resorts offer relaxation, while arcades, escape rooms, or brewery visits add variety.
These extras make Shawnee Mountain skiing trips versatile, blending mountain action with broader Poconos winter adventures.
Shawnee Mountain Ski Deals
Shawnee Mountain skiing excels as an accessible, enjoyable Pennsylvania destination—perfect for families introducing kids to the sport, groups seeking variety, or anyone wanting reliable East Coast conditions without overwhelming crowds. Pack layers, monitor snow reports and webcams, and consider lessons to maximize your time.
For ways to save on lift tickets, lodging, rentals, and more for your Shawnee Mountain trip, browse our current Shawnee Mountain ski deals.
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