The Coldest Lake in Pennsylvania Will Surprise You

Those scorching days of summer often mean hiding away in air conditioning or seeking solace in the cool waters of a swimming pool or a nearby lake, like one of our favorites, Laurel Lake in Pennsylvania. In fact, not only is this lake absolutely lovely, but it's shockingly cold, too! For a really spine-tingling, chilling swim, head to this beautiful state park that boasts a beautiful and cold mountain lake. It is the coldest lake in Pennsylvania. Even on the hottest days in Pennsylvania, getting outside is well worth it after a dip in this cold lake.

Why Laurel Lake Is the Coldest Lake in Pennsylvania

Laurel Lake is cold. There is no secret about that. The reason for its consistently chill temperatures is underneath us. The 25-acre lake, located in Pine Grove Furnace State Park, is fed by springs underground that are very deep and very cold. As a result, Laurel Lake is cold no matter the time of year.

What It Feels Like To Swim in Laurel Lake

Laurel Lake's temperatures generally hover around 50 degrees, so cold that the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) warns swimmers about the mountain lake's low temperatures.

What To Do at Pine Grove Furnace State Park

Start your adventure at the sprawling state park with a stop at the General Store to stock up on everything you need for an afternoon picnic. Spread your favorite beach towel on the sandy beach, which features a concession stand that leads to the cold water of Laurel Lake. If Laurel Lake's water is too cold for you, explore the lake by boat or kayak. The lake, which is open daily from dawn until dusk, does not have lifeguards on duty.

Once you've thoroughly cooled off, slip on your hiking shoes and hit one of the hiking trails that wind through the park or go fishing, biking, or wildlife watching. There are four miles of trails here, and even connections to the famed Appalachian Trail. Plan a visit for the cold winter months to ice skate on Laurel Lake, snowmobile, or cross-country ski along the park's trails.

Best Time To Visit This Pennsylvania Lake

June to August are the best times to visit the coldest lake in Pennsylvania, as it's the warmest season. That said, visiting during late September into early October is fantastic for taking in the changing leaves.

What To Know Before You Go

For swimming, the beach is open from May 1 through September 30. The hours are 8 a.m. until sunset. You'll find a concessions stand, restrooms, and boat rentals. Plus, fishing is allowed, and you'll find pickerel, perch, and stocked trout swimming in the lake.

Other Beautiful Lakes To Visit in Pennsylvania

As you know by now, Pennsylvania is filled with many stunning bodies of water. Some other great ones to check out are Lake Wallenpaupack, Raystown Lake, and Lake Jean. In fact, Raystown Lake is considered the clearest lake in Pennsylvania. Each of these is one of the best lakes in Pennsylvania. Actually, Pennsylvania has more than 75 natural lakes.

Of course, our favorite is snuggled in Pine Grove Furnace State Park. This shimmering mountain lake, Laurel Lake, has kept generations of Pennsylvanians chilled on hot summer days. Ready to dive into what just might be the coldest lake in Pennsylvania? Let's go!