Snow tubing, Skiing, Things to Do in the Poconos in January

Start 2023 off on the right foot: January is the perfect time to get away to the Pocono Mountains! Our region offers an abundance of wonderful winter experiences, from snow activities to indoor fun.

Take to the ski slopes, lace up your skates and glide across a frozen lake, warm up with hearty and delicious fare from unique local restaurants, and so much more: there are lots of fun things to do during the month of January in the Poconos. Check out these ten activities to try during your winter trip in the new year.

Skiing
Snowboarding
Snow Tubing
Ice Skating
Snowshoeing
Winter Paintball
Ethnic Dining
Small Town Shopping
Indoor Family Fun Parks
Indoor Waterparks

Skiing

It’s time to gear up and hit the ski slopes! The Poconos has been a top destination for snow sports since the 1940s. With six major ski areas and over 155 trails, this is the perfect place to enjoy a day of skiing, whether you're brand new or a downhill expert. Local mountains offer equipment rentals and first-time lessons for all ages. Ski Big Bear at Masthope Mountain is a great place to learn the ropes, from putting on your ski boots to boarding the chairlift. Shawnee Mountain and Ski Area offers ski programs for kids as well as developmental classes for adults. Whether your group wants to learn skiing or snowboarding, everybody can learn together during a Family & Friends Beginner Lesson at Camelback Mountain.

Snowboarding

Snowboarders will find some of the best terrain parks on the East Coast in the Pocono Mountains. Big Boulder Ski Area and Jack Frost Mountain both boast sensational terrain parks; 50% of Boulder's mountain encompasses park features, recently reconfigured to allow for better progression, especially for beginner and intermediate guests. Riders can enjoy five terrain parks at Blue Mountain Resort, including 22 jumps and rails at the Dreamweaver Park.

Snow Tubing

Perfect for first timers and thrill seekers alike, snow tubing is an activity the entire family can enjoy together. The two largest snow tubing parks in the country are located in the Poconos! Blue Mountain Resort is home to three magic carpet lifts to whisk you to the top of the hill and 46 lanes to fly down, plus new after-dark sonic tubing. The 42 lanes at Camelback Mountain glow in neon after sunset for an out-of-this world galactic snow tubing experience.

Big Boulder Ski Area - Snow Tubing

A favorite family activity in the Pocono Mountains! Bring your family out for a day of snow tubing…

Blue Mountain Resort - Snow Tubing

With up to 46 lanes over 1,000 feet long and three lifts to take you back to the top, the thrills…

Camelback Mountain - Snow Tubing

Camelback Mountain is home to one of the biggest Snow Tubing Parks in the USA! With up to 42 snow…

Shawnee Mountain Ski Area - Snow Tubing

Updated: Reservations are required and must be purchased in advance online. Snow tubing is a great…

Ski Big Bear at Masthope Mountain - Snow Tubing

Ski Big Bear at Masthope Mountain offers snow tubing in individual tubes. Snow tubing chutes are…

Adventure Center at Skytop Lodge - Snow Tubing

Updated: Open weather dependent. Call 855-345-7759 to book your session. Set out for snowy fun the…

White Lightning Snowtubing

Experience the thrill of snow tubing in the Poconos! When the temperatures drop, the excitement…

CLOSED: Jack Frost Mountain - Snow Tubing

Updated: Currently closed. Treat your whole family to a snow tubing adventure at Jack Frost…

Ice Skating

Whether you like to carve up the ice in hockey blades, or you need a toe pick to gracefully execute turns and jumps, the beauty of the Poconos is an idyllic backdrop for ice skating. When the temperature drops and the lakes freeze over, state parks including Gouldsboro, Tobyhanna, Hickory Run and Promised Land are open for outdoor, unmonitored ice skating. The lake ice must be at least four inches thick before skating, so be sure to use your best judgment and stay safe!

Snowshoeing

Another way to witness the undisturbed beauty of the Pocono Mountains is by snowshoeing. Journey through pristine and serene ;snow-covered woodlands. The Delaware State Forest allows non-groomed snowshoeing in the Bruce Lake Natural Area. Promised Land State Park permits snowshoeing on all trails throughout the entire park. Get in touch with local outfitter Naturfi for snowshoe rentals and guided tours!

Winter Paintball

Suit up for paintball! With or without snow, winter is a great time to enjoy a game on the many different battlefields at Skirmish Paintball. Team up with family and friends or challenge other players in an activity that is sure to get the adrenaline running and warm you up on a chilly day. Don't forget to keep an eye out for Skirmish's special offers and events!

Ethnic Dining

The new year is the perfect time to branch out and discover new flavors! Explore ethnic dining in the Poconos: feast on authentic Mexican cuisines at Del Tacos, warm up with Portugese BBQ at Churrasqueria La Morena BBQ or discover authentic Puerto Rican, Dominican and Cuban cuisine at Don Pedro's Cafe and Pizza. Looking for sushi and Hibachi? Experience a scrumptious show at desaki or stop by MYST Restaurant in Jim Thorpe. Spice Route and Tandoor Palace both feature the vibrant flavors of India.

Churrasqueria La Morena BBQ

Churrasqueria La Morena BBQ specializes in Portuguese BBQ and dishes with a Latin flair. Enjoy…

Cinco Ninos

Cinco Niños is a signature restaurant at Kalahari Resort & Conventions in the Poconos. Enjoy the…

Coco's Fresh Fish Market

Coco's Fresh Fish Market is a pay as you weigh fish market! Offering takeout fresh steamed fish with…

Del Tacos

Serving up authentic Mexican food with delicious flavors and spices. Del Tacos provides a friendly…

desaki

desaki Japanese Restaurant is the Pocono Mountains' foremost destination for sizzling Hibachi and…

Don Pedro's Cafe & Pizza 2

Don Pedro's Cafe offers authentic Puerto Rican, Dominican and Cuban cuisine. Serving our award…

Emilio's Place Restaurant

Emilio's Place offers a wide variety of Latin food to eat in, takeout and catering orders. Enjoy…

La Posada & Felix's Cantina

La Posada is a Mexican restaurant concept that features cuisine from the Yucatan peninsula and…

Los Tres Amigos

Homestyle Mexican and Spanish food made to order! Some of the selections of the menu involve the…

Lucky 8

Experience all that Pan-Asian cuisine has to offer now including a full sushi bar! Take a seat in…

MYST Restaurant

Visit Jim Thorpe's only full-scale sushi-hibachi-gastropub! Offering Asian cuisine, fresh sushi and…

Spice Route

Spice Route is a specialty restaurant in the Poconos known for taste, ambiance, and hospitality. The…

Tandoor Palace

Don’t just taste Indian cuisine... experience it! Tandoor Palace is the only AAA certified Train…

Small Town Shopping

Treat yourself to a new year's gift or two while shopping in the Pocono Mountains! Our small towns are filled with character and charm and one-of-a-kind specialty shops and boutiques. Hunt for treasures in the downtown districts in Milford, Honesdale, Stroudsburg or Jim Thorpe, and don't forget to stop in a cafe or coffee shop for a pick-me-up!

American Candle

American Candle is more than just great candles, it is a destination! Shop candles made on site, let…

American Ribbon Craft and Fabric

American Ribbon Manufacturers has been manufacturing quality ribbon since 1913. Still family owned…

The Apple Tree

A Pocono Destination Boutique specializing in personal service and styling. The Apple Tree team of…

The Artisan Exchange

The Artisan Exchange is a family-run gift gallery that represents more than 275 American artists. If…

Asparagus Sunshine

Asparagus Sunshine is a unique antique store located in the Historic Appalachian town of Delaware…

BetterWorld Store & Cafe

Better for you. Better for the earth. And better for humanity. BetterWorld Store & Cafe has…

Blue Ridge Flea Market

Located at the site of the old Blue Ridge Drive-In Theater, the Blue Ridge Flea Market has been in…

Bulldog Liquidators - Brodheadsville

Updated: Temporarily closed. Please visit their Mount Pocono location at 3430 Route 940, Mount…

Bulldog Liquidators - Mount Pocono

Bulldog Liquidators is a general merchandise store that sells everything. Woman owned and family…

Callie's Candy Kitchen

Updated: Callie's Candy Kitchen will be closed from January 2 through February 3. You can still shop…

The Candle Shoppe of the Poconos

The Candle Shoppe of the Poconos is your one stop shop for candles and gifts. Offering the…

The Shoppes at Castle Inn

The Shoppes and businesses at the Historic Castle Inn are a unique collection of businesses for you…

Country Junction World's Largest General Store

Country Junction is a place for family fun! Stroll the yellow brick road and embark on an…

Country Kettle

Established in 1986 our unique retail store features candy, candles, collectibles and crafts…

The Crossings Premium Outlets

For shopping that's always worth the trip! The Crossings Premium Outlets features over 100 designer…

Crystal Garden

Crystal Garden Metaphysical Shop and Salt Cave is a sanctuary for the mind, body and soul. Offering…

Der Jaeger Unique Arts

Shop a wide selection of antiques, artwork, fine porcelain, collectibles and militaria at this…

Dunkelberger's Sports Outfitter

Serving the Pocono Mountains for over 40 years! Located in beautiful downtown Stroudsburg and on…

Earthly Treasures

Located at the Historic Upper Mill in lovely Milford, Pennsylvania, Earthly Treasures is a…

Fireworks Outlet - Tannersville Location

Select from a complete line of fireworks. Offering the lowest prices and biggest selections. No…

Fireworks Outlet - Marshalls Creek Location

Select from a complete line of fireworks. Offering the lowest prices and biggest selections. No…

Fireworks Outlet/Pocono Fireworks - Tannersville

Pennsylvania’s Firework Headquarters. Offering the lowest prices and biggest selections! No…

Fireworks Outlet - Marshalls Creek Location

Pennsylvania’s Firework Headquarters. Offering the lowest prices and biggest selections! No…

Gather

Head down to Gather in Honesdale to find fun gifts for everyone on your list. Located in Downtown…

Gorgeous Floral

Gorgeous Floral is thrilled to help you with all your floral needs; whether it is ‘just because’ or…

Grapevine Antiques & Crafts Mall

Find local crafts, decor, antiques and more at the Grapevine Antiques & Crafts Mall. Browse crafts…

Grapevine Antiques & Crafts Mall

Grapevine Antiques & Crafts Mall features over 100 vendors in a 6,000-square-foot location. There's…

Hanna's Farm Market

Hanna's Farm Market is a family owned and operated, full-service farm market. Stop by to browse a…

Hawley Silk Mill

Explore the shops at the Hawley Silk Mill. The ground floor of the landmark Hawley Silk Mill houses…

Homegrown Poconos

The Homegrown Poconos CBD Lounge is your store for the highest quality, all-organic and natural hemp…

James Diamond Jewelry

James Diamond Jewelry is Northeast Pennsylvania’s Bridal Headquarters. With over 2,000 engagement…

Jenny's Sweets & More

Jenny’s is not just a nostalgic candy store. It is a local mom and pop shop where a smile is placed…

Jim Thorpe Guns & Ammo

Stop by Jim Thorpe Guns and Ammo for all your shooting needs. You'll find that Jim Thorpe Guns &…

Jingle Bells Christmas Shoppe

The old Victorian town of Jim Thorpe sets the stage for this cozy Christmas shoppe. From ornaments…

Lake Art

Outfitting your Lake Wallenpaupack lifestyle. Lake Art is owned by a local artist who concepts and…

Matador Cigars

Matador Cigars offers the finest selection of premium cigars for retail and consumption on premises…

Maude & Main

They offer a great selection, from vintage-inspired to a clean, contemporary design aesthetic, with…

Moka Origins

Shop ethically-traded chocolate and coffee that has a positive impact on farmers and the planet. Sip…

Monroe Farmers Market

Monroe Farmers Market has been serving the Stroudsburg-area community since 1979. Offering quality…

North of the Border Fireworks

North of the Border Fireworks is a full-service, consumer-grade fireworks retail outlet that has…

Odd-Lot Outlet - Marshalls Creek Location

Two locations for your shopping convenience. The largest selection of Pocono Mountains' souvenirs…

Odd-Lot Outlet - Tannersville Location

Two locations for your shopping convenience. The largest selection of Pocono Mountains' souvenirs…

Odd-Lot Outlet - Marshalls Creek Location

Two locations for your shopping convenience. The largest selection of Pocono souvenirs, unique gifts…

Odd-Lot Outlet - Tannersville Location

Two locations for your shopping convenience. The largest selection of Pocono Mountains' souvenirs…

Opal's on 5th

Opal’s on 5th is a wellness center combined with a gift and accessories shop. Stop by and treat…

Paradise Lavender Farm

The mission of Paradise Lavender Farm is to create a place of peace and calm surrounded by rows of…

Penny Lane Candies & Candles

Take a stroll down memory lane, visit Penny Lane Candies & Candles to find your favorite candies…

Pieces of the Past

Filling a 60x96-foot shop plus eight outbuildings, Pieces of the Past features all kinds of…

Pocono Cheesecake Factory

Freshly made cheesecakes - "Love at first bite!” At Pocono Cheesecake Factory, the sweets start with…

Pocono Mountain Harley-Davidson

It's better in the mountains! Come by for all of your Harley-Davidson needs! Motorcycles, parts…

Indoor Family Fun Parks

Fight the winter blues: gather your friends and family for an outing to a local family fun park! Try the ninja warrior course and boulder climbing wall at Pocono Rocks!, or let the kids work off some energy on the bounce houses and trampolines at Pocolandia. Sports enthusiasts can give Dropshots Pickleball a try to experience this trendy blend of tennis, ping pong and badminton, while Wake Zone Indoor Golf & Tap Room allows golfers to get in some time on a virtual course regardless of the weather.

Indoor Waterparks

The weather is always guaranteed to be a tropical 84 degrees at indoor waterpark resorts in the Poconos! Conquer the slides, brave the wave pool or relax by the cabanas. Home to America’s largest indoor waterparks, Kalahari Resorts and Conventions boasts a 220,000 square foot enclosed paradise. H2Oooohh! Indoor Waterpark at Split Rock Resort features three four-story slides and a Flow Rider to get your adrenaline pumping, while Great Wolf Lodge offers zero-depth entry pools, play areas and dump buckets with fun for the whole family. After a day on the slopes, spend some time on the slides at Camelback Lodge & Aquatopia Indoor Waterpark Book a day pass, or stay overnight to try all the adventures these resorts have to offer.

Experience the magic of winter in the Pocono Mountains! Check out our ski and snow activities as well as ski specials when planning your trip. For real-time updates, be sure to check snow conditions at our six ski areas. Save on a January stay with special offers, and browse more things to do during your stay.