When winter settles over Pennsylvania’s Laurel Highlands, the region transforms into a snow-covered playground where rolling ridge lines, crisp mountain air, and welcoming resorts create the perfect setting for cold-weather adventure. With four unique alpine destinations, expansive Nordic trails, and cozy après-ski experiences, the Laurel Highlands offers a winter escape for every style of snow lover—from first-timers to seasoned shredders.
Five Regional Resorts and Ski Areas
At the heart of the region’s ski scene is Seven Springs Mountain Resort in Champion, the largest and most varied ski area in the state. Typically opening in early to mid-December, Seven Springs sets the tone for the season with 285 acres of skiable terrain. Its diverse terrain breakdown—34% beginner, 44% intermediate, and 22% advanced—makes it an ideal destination for families and mixed-skill groups. After a full day on the mountain, guests can unwind slopeside with standout lodging options or head straight to Foggy Goggle, consistently ranked among North America’s top après-ski bars and a perennial favorite on USA Today’s annual list.
Just down the road, Hidden Valley Resort offers a quieter, family-friendly alpine experience with 110 acres of skiable terrain. Hidden Valley is known for its welcoming vibe and highly regarded ski instruction program which is recognized as one of North America’s best. With terrain balanced between beginner, intermediate, and advanced runs, it’s the perfect place to build skills, make memories, and enjoy Laurel Highlands snowfall.
For skiers seeking a classic mountain experience, Laurel Mountain Ski Resort in Boswell is steeped in history and character. Once a retreat for WWII aviator training and later restored with modern lift and snowmaking upgrades, Laurel Mountain is beloved for its authentic feel and challenging terrain. The standout attraction is Lower Wildcat, a double black diamond boasting nearly a 60% slope—one of the steepest runs in Pennsylvania and a thrilling rite of passage for advanced skiers.
For those who prefer exclusivity paired with luxury, Nemacolin in Farmington redefines the winter resort experience. As an overnight guest or member, you can access six slopes across 25 acres, ranging from mellow beginner runs to expert terrain. Nemacolin also invites guests to try Sno-Go ski bikes, Skiskates, cross-country skiing, and even dogsledding—perfect for adventurers looking to elevate their alpine stay.
Nordic enthusiasts will find their winter haven at the Laurel Ridge Cross Country Ski Center in Laurel Ridge State Park. With roughly 35 miles of groomed trails (permit required), it’s a serene setting for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. The nearby 120-mile Laurel Highlands Snowmobile Trail System winds through state parks and forests, adding even more winter mileage for motorized explorers.
Whether you’re carving steep alpine terrain, gliding through snow-draped forests, or sipping a warm drink beside a slopeside fire, the Laurel Highlands offers endless ways to embrace the magic of winter. Let the mountains welcome you—your perfect winter escape is waiting.
Winter by the Numbers
- Highest elevation: 2,994 feet
- Base elevation: 2,240 feet
- Skiable terrain: 285 acres
- Lifts: 10
- Average snowfall: 135 inches
- Terrain parks: 7
- Trails: 33
- Beginner terrain 34%
- Intermediate terrain: 44%
- Advanced terrain: 22%
- Lodging: 414 slopeside rooms plus chalets and mountaintop condos
- Apres-ski: The Foggy Goggle has been voted the top apres-ski bar in North America (2023) and the 2nd best apres-ski bar of 2025 by USA Today.
- Highest elevation: 2,875 feet
- Base elevation: 2,405 feet
- Skiable terrain: 110 acres
- Lifts: 8
- Average snowfall: 135 inches
- Terrain parks: 2
- Trails: 26
- Beginner terrain: 28%
- Intermediate terrain: 41%
- Advanced terrain: 32%
- Ski school: Named the 2nd top ski school in North America by USA Today in 2025.
- Highest elevation: 2,766 feet
- Base elevation: 2,005 feet
- Skiable terrain: 70 acres
- Lifts: 1
- Trails: 19
- Beginner terrain: 52%
- Intermediate terrain: 36%
- Advanced terrain: 16%
- Iconic slope: The double black diamond Lower Wildcat, which averages nearly 60% slope, is one of the steepest runs in Pennsylvania.
- Ultra-luxury resort that hosted the 25th season of “The Bachelor”
- Must be an overnight resort guest or member to partake in any of these
- 25 acres of skiing and snowboarding terrain
- Six slopes ranging from beginner to expert
- Features Sno-Go ski bikes as well as Skiskates
- Cross country skiing and dogsledding experiences are also available
- Permit required for the Laurel Ridge Cross Country Ski Center
- About 35 miles of trails are available for cross country skiing
- Snowshoeing is permitted on park trails
- The 120-mile Laurel Highlands Snowmobile Trail System traverses state park and forest lands.
