Winter Adventures: Skiing, Snowboarding, and Cozy Cabins in New Jersey
Nestled in the northwestern corner of New Jersey, the Mountain Creek Resort in Vernon offers a surprisingly robust winter playground just about an hour’s drive from New York City. This resort is home to a variety of ski trails catering to all levels, from gentle beginner slopes to challenging black diamonds like the Deer Run trail. What truly sets Mountain Creek apart is its status as the largest ski and snowboard area in the state, with more than 40 trails spread over three peaks. Visitors can enjoy well-groomed runs, expansive terrain parks, and a dedicated tubing park. The crisp winter air, coupled with views of the Kittatinny Ridge, creates a refreshing alpine atmosphere close to urban hubs, making it ideal for day trips or weekend getaways during the snowy months.
Further west, about 90 minutes from Philadelphia, Campgaw Mountain in Mahwah punches well above its modest elevation with excellent night skiing and a welcoming vibe for beginners and families. The mountain’s compact size belies the quality of its ski school programs and terrain parks, which appeal to snowboarders and skiers honing new skills. Campgaw’s proximity to the NYC metro area makes it a frequently chosen spot for locals seeking after-work slopes or a quick weekend retreat. Evening runs under the lights add a magical touch, transforming the familiar terrain into a shimmering winter playground.
Traveling to Sussex County, the area around High Point State Park, roughly two hours from Newark, offers a quieter, more reflective winter experience. While not a ski resort itself, the park’s snow-covered trails invite snowshoers and cross-country skiers to explore its serene landscape. The park’s namesake, High Point Monument, stands over 1,800 feet above sea level, offering panoramic views of the Pocono Mountains and the Catskills in clear weather. The peacefulness of High Point State Park in winter contrasts sharply with the bustling downhill ski resorts and provides a unique way to engage with New Jersey’s natural beauty during the colder months.
In the heart of the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, about 90 minutes west of New York City, gliding across the snow on cross-country skis along the Dunnfield Creek Trail creates a peaceful escape. The trail runs through a quiet valley, showcasing frost-covered hemlocks and open meadows that come alive with wildlife tracks in winter. The nearby town of Delaware Water Gap makes a charming base, where visitors can cozy up by a fire or explore local craft shops after a day spent in the crisp, wooded terrain. This area offers a blend of outdoor adventure and small-town charm not commonly associated with winter sports in New Jersey.
Venture south toward the foothills of the Kittatinny Ridge near the town of Hardwick, and you’ll find Stokes State Forest’s Mount Mohepinoke Trail. This challenging 5-mile loop rewards winter hikers with sweeping views from the summit, overlooking the forest’s snow-blanketed valleys. About 90 minutes northwest of Newark, the forest features various trails perfect for snowshoeing and winter backpacking. The crisp, quiet woods and the occasional sighting of white-tailed deer or red foxes give visitors a sense of wilderness rarity within reach of the metropolitan area. Winter is the best season here to experience the stark, dramatic beauty of New Jersey’s northern forests.
For those who prefer a cozy retreat after a day of winter sports, the Delaware Water Gap region also boasts the charming lodges and cabins near the Appalachian Trail’s entry points in Walpack Township. Just a short drive from the Pennsylvania border, these rustic cabins offer a warm refuge with wood-burning fireplaces and hearty meals prepared with local ingredients. The area’s proximity to winter trails and the scenic Delaware River makes it an ideal spot for combining outdoor exercise with restful nights surrounded by nature’s quiet.
Near Morristown, about 30 miles west of New York City, the Jockey Hollow section of the Morristown National Historical Park transforms into a snowy wonderland during winter. Though more renowned for its Revolutionary War history, Jockey Hollow’s trails provide gentle terrain perfect for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. The combination of historical markers, old military encampments, and wintry woods creates an immersive experience where visitors can connect with both nature and the past. Winter light filtering through bare trees emphasizes the solemn beauty of the place, making it a distinctive winter outing within easy reach of urban centers.
Finally, the scenic Highlands region along the Ramapo River in Ringwood, about 45 minutes northwest of Manhattan, is home to several inviting cabins and lodges that serve as gateways to winter sports. Ringwood State Park’s network of trails is well-suited for snowshoers and cross-country skiers who want to explore icy streams and frozen waterfalls framed by snow-laden trees. The nearby Ringwood Manor offers a glimpse into colonial life, adding cultural depth to a snowy excursion. This combination of outdoor activity and historical exploration makes the Highlands a multifaceted winter destination, where adventurers can immerse themselves in both natural and human history.
Each of these places offers a distinctive way to embrace New Jersey’s winter months — from adrenaline-pumping downhill runs to serene cross-country trails and snug cabins tucked among snowy hills. The state’s diverse landscapes and proximity to major cities ensure that winter adventurers can find both excitement and comfort, no matter their style or skill level.