Mountain Creek Resort, Vernon / credit: Christopher Vanderyajt

Let It Snow: Enjoy Outdoor Winter Fun

In New Jersey, the cool temperatures and onset of snow mean that winter fun abounds! Our variety of outdoor winter activities will keep you busy all season long. Will NJ have a snowy winter? Time will tell. In the meantime, get your gloves and hats ready and check out these six amazing adventures.

 

  1. Enjoy the mountain lifestyle at a luxurious ski resort.

    New Jersey is home to the popular Mountain Creek Resort in Vernon, located about 50 miles from New York City. With over 167 acres of skiable terrain, Mountain Creek spans four peaks with vertical heights reaching over 1,000 feet. Known for its multiple freestyle parks, snow-making capabilities and even night skiing, the venue offers something for everyone.

    Try skiing and snowboarding down dozens of trails for all skill levels, a snow tubing park and the latest in winter thrills—Sno-Go! After a day on the slopes, stay the night at The Appalachian or Black Creek Sanctuary to unwind in a steaming hot tub or around the fire pit.
     
  2. Get a thrill by tubing down the slopes.

    Campgaw Mountain, located in Mahwah, is another great choice for fast-paced tubing. Grab your inner tube, fly down the hill, take a leisurely ride back up—and then do it all over again. Stay nearby at Homewood Suites by Hilton Mahwah for a whole weekend of snow tubing, skiing and snowboarding adventures for every level.
     
  3. Savor some solitude on cross-country skis.

    If cross-country skiing is more your style, head for the High Point Cross Country Ski Center in Sussex. With opportunities to purchase season, all-day or half-day passes, there’s no limit to how often you can swish your way across acres of trails that scenically weave through alpine lakes, beautiful vistas and snow-covered trees. Book a room at Rolling Hills Motel in Wantage, conveniently located near High Point State Park and the Appalachian Trail.
     
  4. Explore tranquil trails on snowshoes.

    Another wonderful way to explore the great outdoors? Snowshoeing! Very little equipment is needed, and snowshoes can be easily rented at any major outdoor store or outfitter.

    Some of the best snowshoeing trails throughout the state are located up north, including the Ramapo Mountain State Forest in Oakland. Get away for the weekend and stay at the Holiday Inn Express Haskell-Wayne Area hotel for a close option. Allamuchy Mountain State Park in Stanhope also promises picturesque scenery for snowshoeing, and the Residence Inn Mt. Olive at International Trade Center is the perfect spot for a home base.
     
  5. Gather the family outdoors for a day of sledding.

    Sledding is a timeless, family-favorite winter sport that can be enjoyed all over the state. Pick up a plastic disk or a classic sled and bring it to any of New Jersey’s parks or recreation areas. Consider sledding in Courtyard Rockaway Mt. Arlington.
     
  6. Gracefully glide along the ice at a skating rink.

    You’ll find outdoor ice-skating rinks across New Jersey’s map. One possibility: Newport Skates, which sits on the Hudson River waterfront in Jersey City and also offers private and group lessons. Afterward, cozy up in your room at The Westin Jersey City Newport, a chic hotel with Manhattan skyline views, providing an indoor heated pool and whirlpool, elegant restaurants and plush accommodations.
     

There are many fun activities to experience this winter in New Jersey, so don’t let the cold weather keep you indoors! Just remember to check the official website or social media channels of your destination BEFORE your visit to get the latest details. For even more trip ideas, download a free NJ travel guide or sign up for the e-newsletter.