Woodloch In The Winter

A winter getaway that turns cold days into lasting memories

By: Joseph J. Ranner | Photos Ctsy: Woodloch

Once the holiday glow fades and summer still feels far off, winter can start to drag—especially for travelers itching to get away. But the colder months don’t have to be a season of waiting. In fact, winter can be the perfect time to escape.

Just two hours from Manhattan, Woodloch offers a snow-covered retreat that embraces the season rather than hiding from it. Set in the heart of Pennsylvania’s Pocono Mountains, the resort transforms winter into a playground—welcoming families, couples, and multigenerational groups looking for warmth, energy, and connection when they need it most.

Woodloch Pines Family Resort first opened its doors in 1958 with a simple mantra: to treat each and every guest as if they were company in their own home. Four generations later, that philosophy still defines the experience. Spread across 135 acres of picturesque Pocono Mountains landscape, Woodloch offers comfortable lodging in both hotel-style accommodations and spacious vacation homes, along with hearty family-style meals, nightly entertainment, and a robust activities program designed for guests of all ages.

Winter at Woodloch begins with the roar of the resort’s snow cannons. Regardless of how many natural flakes fall, piles of fresh powder are ready for lakeside tubing fun. Whether you’re a wide-eyed child with endless energy or someone fondly recalling the magic of snow days past, it’s a chilly thrill you’ll want to experience again and again. Outdoor amenities such as go-karts and the archery range remain open year-round, keeping the action going no matter the season. Ice skating is weather proof with a synthetic covered rink. 

One of the things that truly sets Woodloch apart is its spirited sense of competition. The excitement surrounding the resort’s activities—and the pursuit of gold medals—is contagious. Winter’s marquee event is the Family Olympics, where guests tackle six relay-style challenges across a snow-filled battleground, all in pursuit of a coveted medal. It’s energetic, inclusive, and emblematic of what makes Woodloch’s programming so engaging.

When it’s time to warm up, Woodloch offers just as many memorable indoor experiences. Guests can enjoy game-show-style trivia, scavenger hunts, gymnasium athletic contests, kids’ club events, and more. For those seeking pure relaxation, the indoor pool complex is a welcome retreat, complete with hot tubs, a kiddie splash park, and even an indoor waterslide. With more than 30 scheduled activities each day, no two days at the resort ever feel the same.

Evenings bring another layer of entertainment. Each night features family-friendly performances on the theater stage, from live music and magicians to a Broadway-style musical revue. Guests can also unwind with coffee or a seasonal cocktail by one of the outdoor fire pits. As the night goes on, the energy continues with DJ dance parties or karaoke—just be sure to rest up, because the next day promises even more.

 

The surrounding area offers additional opportunities to explore. Beginners and seasoned skiers alike will appreciate nearby Ski Big Bear, located just 15 minutes down the road, where Woodloch guests can take advantage of discounted lift tickets. For those craving peace and quiet, The Lodge at Woodloch provides a serene counterpoint to the family resort. Recognized as one of the world’s premier destination spas, the Lodge offers snowshoeing, classes and lectures, gourmet cuisine, and a full menu of rejuvenating spa treatments. It’s an ideal escape for couples, girlfriends’ getaways, or anyone seeking a tranquil retreat between moments of family fun.

Winter has a way of slowing things down—but at Woodloch, it does the opposite. Days are filled with activity, evenings bring laughter and entertainment, and the season itself becomes part of the experience. Whether you’re racing through the snow, relaxing poolside, or savoring a quiet moment by the fire, a winter stay here offers something rare: a getaway that feels both invigorating and comforting at the same time.

That balance is what keeps guests returning year after year. Winter at Woodloch isn’t about escaping the cold as much as embracing it in ways that feel joyful and effortless. From early morning activities to late-night gatherings, there’s a rhythm to each day that allows guests to be as active—or as relaxed—as they choose. Families move easily between outdoor adventures and indoor comforts, while couples and multigenerational groups find plenty of opportunities to connect without feeling rushed.

Even simple moments take on added warmth during the winter months. A shared laugh during a friendly competition, the quiet satisfaction of warming up after a day outside, or the glow of firelight at the end of the evening all become part of the story guests take home with them. At Woodloch, winter isn’t something to endure until spring arrives—it’s a season that invites participation, presence, and lasting memories long after the snow has melted.

For more information or to plan a winter escape, visit woodloch.com or call 570-685-8000, option 1

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