10 Places in Pennsylvania That Will Make You Feel as Though You’ve Entered a Winter Wonderland

One of the most beautiful times of the year is upon us. Even if we aren't fans of winter, we will likely admit it's a stunning season. While the Pennsylvania landscape is spellbinding at any time of the year, add snow-capped mountains and trees and the glow of freshly fallen snow in the moonlight, and it transforms into an awe-inspiring winter wonderland. Embrace the season's magic by visiting the best winter wonderland places in Pennsylvania.

1. Bellefonte

Discover picture-perfect scenes, especially in the winter, all over the charming town of Bellefonte. Enjoy a winter stroll around Talleyrand Park to kick off your visit. Bellefonte also features a vibrant downtown dotted with quaint shops and restaurants. It's one of the best places to visit in Pennsylvania in winter, especially after a fresh snowfall. For several days every December, Bellefonte hosts a magical Victorian Christmas, a beloved holiday tradition with a full menu of activities, including a cookie crawl, a festival of trees, a gingerbread house contest display, and special events with Santa Claus.

2. Eagle's Mere

The enchanting village of Eagles Mere looks like it belongs on an old-fashioned postcard, especially when blanketed with snow. Join a long-held tradition in the village on the Eagles Mere Toboggan. Zip down a hill in the middle of the village on a toboggan for an epic adrenaline rush. (Check before visiting as the toboggan has been canceled in recent years due to warm temperatures.) Afterward, enjoy a cup of hot chocolate before sliding down again. One of the best winter wonderland places in Pennsylvania, Eagles Mere is bucket list worthy.

3. McConnells Mill State Park

Jaw-dropping winter views await at McConnells Mill State Park. Breathe in the fresh air by hiking along one of the park's trails. Go kayaking in the icy waters, or spend a few hours snowshoeing on one of the trails, which total more than nine miles. Bring your camera along, too, so you can capture some of the splendor of winter in Pennsylvania.

4. Valley Forge National Historical Park

Winter provides the perfect backdrop for visiting Valley Forge National Historical Park, one of the most magical winter wonderland places in Pennsylvania. The site of the Continental Army's winter encampment in 1777, the park is open year-round and transforms into a winter wonderland when the snow falls. Hike some of the 30 miles of trails before warming up indoors at the visitor center. Wear a sturdy pair of hiking shoes and carry poles, especially if you plan to explore after it has snowed.

5. Ohiopyle State Park

Ohiopyle State Park, one of the most breathtaking winter wonderland places in Pennsylvania, is home to several waterfalls, including Cucumber Falls and Ohiopyle Falls, which turn into iced artwork during the coldest days of winter. I've visited both waterfalls in the summer and fall. Park in the lot near the Visitor Center to see Ohiopyle Falls. The parking lot is just a short stroll to two viewing platforms that overlook the waterfall, and you can go into the Visitor Center for another view. Cucumber Falls is a one-mile drive from Ohiopyle Falls. We walked to a small overlook from the tiny parking lot for an overhead view of Cucumber Falls. If you want to see it up close, go down a long staircase. Be careful, though, as it will likely be icy and slippery in the winter. Ohiopyle State Park promises plenty of fun outdoor activities. Cross-country skiing trails total more than 33 miles. Sled riding and snowmobiling are also popular winter activities.

6. Gouldsboro State Park

Spanning 2,800 acres, Gouldsboro State Park, home to one of the best lakes in Pennsylvania, beckons outdoor lovers all year round with its many activities. Once the snow falls, it becomes one of the most enchanting winter wonderland places in Pennsylvania. Lace up your ice skates, and glide around an acre of the 250-acre Gouldsboro Lake. Or, slip on your skis for a morning or afternoon of cross-country skiing along the park's 10 miles of hiking trails.

7. Powdermill Nature Reserve

Powdermill Nature Reserve's spellbinding beauty is illuminated against the winter background. An extension of the Carnegie Museum of Natural History, the sprawling nature reserve is an idyllic way to spend a few hours on a winter day. Go hiking and view local wildlife. Programs are held in the evenings and on the weekends throughout the year. If you've not been to Powdermill Nature Reserve, add it to your must-visit list.

8. Gettysburg

Embrace tranquility and drink in the seasonal beauty with a visit to Gettysburg in the winter. Start by exploring Gettysburg National Military Park, one of the most haunted places in Pennsylvania. Go skiing or snow tubing at Gettysburg Liberty Mountain Resort. A stroll around downtown Gettysburg also offers plenty of picture-perfect moments. While in town, grab a delicious bite at the oldest restaurant in Pennsylvania or check into this haunted Pennsylvania hotel.

9. Delaware State Forest

Sprawled across nearly 84,000 acres, Delaware State Forest promises plenty of family-friendly fun all winter. Drink in the stunning beauty of the winter wonderland as you explore on a scenic hike or go cross-country skiing. Snowmobiling is also a popular winter activity. Save time to visit one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Pennsylvania, too.

10. Renovo

One of the most remote towns in Pennsylvania, Renovo beckons outdoor lovers and nature enthusiasts with its natural beauty. Explore the breathtaking winter wonderland with a visit to Eagle Branch Swamp Natural Area, or take a scenic drive along the High Plateau Scenic Byway (Route 144) after it has snowed.

How lucky are we to live in a state that turns into a winter wonderland when the seasons change? Let us know your favorite winter wonderland places in Pennsylvania by nominating them.

On the lookout for more wintertime fun? Make the most of the winter wonderland by adding these fun winter activities in Pennsylvania to your bucket list.