Shawnee Mountain Ski Area, Ski resort in Middle Smithfield Township, Pennsylvania.
Shawnee Mountain Ski Area is a ski resort in the Pocono Mountains of northeastern Pennsylvania, roughly 2 hours (about 160 km) from New York City. It offers trails for all levels, from gentle beginner slopes to steeper runs, along with a terrain park and several lifts.
The resort opened in the late 1950s and gradually grew as demand for winter sports increased in the northeastern United States. Over the decades, new trails and snowmaking systems were added to extend the season and handle more visitors.
The ski area is a popular winter destination for families and school groups from nearby cities like New York and Philadelphia. On weekends, the slopes fill with first-time skiers learning together, giving the place a communal, approachable feel that keeps many returning year after year.
Visiting on weekdays tends to mean shorter lift lines and a more relaxed experience than on weekends or school holidays. Beginners should head to the dedicated learning area near the base, which is separate from the main trails.
Shawnee Mountain has one of the most extensive snowmaking systems in Pennsylvania, covering nearly the entire ski area. This allows the resort to open early in the season and stay open even when natural snowfall is low, which is common in the Poconos.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
