How to enjoy the Alleghenies’ great outdoors this winter
By Sarah Taylor
When the temperature drops, the PA Alleghenies has you covered. Whether you’re an avid snowshoer, a passionate cross-country skier, an ice fishing aficionado or someone who simply loves to ice skate, there’s fun for everyone. Not only is this area a haven for winter sports, but it also boasts local businesses ready to outfit you with the gear you need to enjoy the great outdoors.
Snowshoeing: A way to escape into nature
Snowshoeing is one of the simplest and most rewarding ways to explore the snowy landscapes of the Alleghenies. This low-impact aerobic activity allows you to traverse pristine trails, take in the breathtaking views and enjoy the tranquility of the winter woods all at your own pace.
With a variety of trails ranging from beginner to advanced levels, snowshoeing is perfect for families, couples or solo adventurers looking to reconnect with nature.
Where should you go?
Some popular snowshoeing spots include:
- Blue Knob State Park in Bedford County features a variety of trails with stunning vistas. The annual snowfall here averages roughly 12 feet, so you’ll never have to worry about snowshoeing on the grassy ground.
- Trough Creek State Park in Huntingdon County offers serene trails that meander through beautiful, snow-covered landscapes. With 541 acres to explore, you’ll never be bored.
- Bald Eagle State Park in Centre County is a network of 14.5 miles of hiking trail. The Butterfly Trail, Hunter Run East Trail and the Skyline Drive Trail are all recommended for snowshoeing adventures.
Where can you buy gear locally?
For those looking to rent or purchase snowshoeing equipment, Appalachian Outdoors in State College offers a range of snowshoes and gear for all levels. Additionally, DICK’S Sporting Goods provides a broad selection of snowshoeing equipment, ensuring you find the right fit for your adventures.
Cross-country skiing: Glide through the naturally diverse terrain
Cross-country skiing combines the thrill of skiing with the beauty of the natural winter landscape. With countless trails winding through the woods and alongside rivers, the PA Alleghenies provide an exceptional backdrop for both novice and seasoned skiers.
Cross-country skiing is not only exhilarating but also a great workout, with the cardiovascular fitness allowing you to enjoy the crisp winter air.
Where should you go?
Consider these excellent cross-country skiing locations:
- Laurel Mountain State Park spans four counties, including Cambria and Somerset County. This park features groomed trails that are perfect for all skill levels.
- Rothrock State Forest covers 95,975 acres across three counties: Huntingdon, Centre and Mifflin. With all the trails open to cross-country skiing, this forest offers a vast terrain for adventure.
- Cowans Gap State Park in Fulton County encourages cross-country enthusiasts to ski on closed park roads and some hiking trails. Be sure to check the Winter Report for information about ice and snow depths.
Where can you buy gear locally?
For purchasing or renting cross-country skiing equipment, Ski Den Sports in Johnstown is a fantastic option, offering a variety of skis, poles and boots. Additionally, Spokes N Skis in Altoona has a wide range of cross-country gear, from beginner to advanced levels.
Ice Fishing: A Tranquil Winter Pursuit
For those who find solace in quiet lakes and in waiting for a catch, ice fishing is the ultimate winter experience. The PA Alleghenies are home to numerous lakes and ponds that freeze over in winter. This activity allows you to connect with nature and test your resilient spirit by enjoying the peace of the outdoors. Perhaps you’ll even bring home a fresh meal.
Where should you go?
The rules and regulations for each place differ, so be sure to look them up before you arrive. Popular ice fishing locations include:
- Raystown Lake in Huntingdon County spans over 8,000 acres and hosts over 100 miles of shoreline. Its diverse fish population makes it an ample fishing spot.
- Whipple Dam State Park also in Huntingdon County offers ample fishing opportunities on its 22-acre lake and scenic views.
- Greenwood Furnace State Park’s Greenwood Lake in Huntingdon County is regularly stocked with trout.
Make sure to test ice thickness before beginning your fun. Four inches of solid ice is the minimum recommended thickness for a single person.
Where can you buy gear locally?
For all your ice fishing needs, Pcola’s Lures in St. Michael is a small family business dedicated to the designing, manufacturing and selling of fishing lures. Ebensburg Fishing & Hunting provides a wide selection of fishing equipment and local expertise.
Skiing: The fun goes beyond the slopes
For those who want to learn or those who love the thrill, the PA Alleghenies has numerous ski resorts just for you. Make memories that will last a lifetime against the snowy backdrop of the mountainous terrain.
After a hard day of adventure, guests can relax in the resorts’ lounges or grab something to eat at a small restaurant nearby.
Where should you go?
Popular skiing resorts include:
- Blue Knob All Seasons Resort in Blair County is best known as being the highest skiable mountain in Pennsylvania.
- Laurel Mountain Ski Area in Somerset County hosts the famous adrenaline racing, double diamond Lower Wildcast Slope.
- Tussey Mountain Ski and Recreation in Centre County’s well-groomed trails have gentle slopes for beginners and exciting runs for experts.
Where can you buy gear locally?
Hidden Valley Ski Shop just outside of Somerset is a great resource for all kinds of high quality skiing gear. Appalachian Outdoors in State College is also stacked with various skiing equipment.
Ice skating: Fun for the whole family
Ice skating is a classic winter activity that brings people of all ages together. Whether you’re gracefully gliding across a frozen pond or enjoying the fun of a local rink, ice skating is an enjoyable way to embrace the winter season. The PA Alleghenies offer a variety of venues for both outdoor and indoor skating.
Where should you go?
Consider these ice skating venues:
- Canoe Creek State Park in Blair County is the perfect outdoor excursion. Visitors can skate on the lake and the park’s two ponds; however, they should note that the ice thickness is not monitored.
- Pegula Ice Arena at Penn State in Centre County offers public skating sessions every month.
- Black Moshannon State Park is also in Centre County and maintains a section of the lake near Boating Area #1 for ice skaters.
If you’re skating outdoors, make sure to test the thickness of the ice.
Where can you buy gear locally?
Durham’s Sports in Lewistown or State College features ice skates, along with protective gear. Visitors at Pegula Ice Arena can rent ice skates.
Sarah Taylor is a communications professional studying telecommunications at Penn State University. She can be reached at sarah.st.taylor@gmail.com.
