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Top 24 Hotels Near Elk Mountain SKI Area
344 Elk Mountain Rd Union Dale, PA
Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Gibson by IHG
Guests at Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Gibson by IHG can rely on it as a convenient base for the easy regional drive to Elk Mountain SKI Area.
Soft seating in Holiday Inn Express lobbies offers travelers comfort and decompression while companions complete check-in formalities. Guest rooms are designed with ergonomic chairs, large desks, and strong Wi-Fi, providing work setups that support productivity away. Fitness facilities containing cardio machines, weights, and stretching mats help travelers maintain energy and balance on the road.
Free breakfast, fitness centers, and Wi-Fi pair with indoor pools and meeting rooms, covering both leisure and professional goals.
Hotel Anthracite
Elk Mountain SKI Area is a simple commute from Hotel Anthracite, a convenience that makes the hotel a sensible and well-placed choice.
Hotel Anthracite typically provides quick desk service, modest lobby space, and complimentary parking that sustain easy travel routines. Rooms may feature compact desks, ergonomic chairs, and Wi-Fi, supporting work routines while maintaining comfort during travel. Public areas typically include breakfast counters, vending access, and compact seating that create practical support during visits.
Accommodations often highlight Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, vending corners, and parking, sustaining functional routines across stays.
Gravity Inn Motel
Guests at Gravity Inn Motel can depend on it as a sensible base for the easy regional drive to Elk Mountain SKI Area.
At Gravity Inn Motel, arrivals may include modest reception, exterior parking, and vending areas that maintain straightforward guest routines. Accommodations often include modest bedding, Wi-Fi, and compact bathrooms, reflecting practical routines in budget properties. Facilities often feature compact breakfast spaces, vending machines, and modest seating that maintain clear daily consistency.
Guests may enjoy Wi-Fi, pet-friendly policies, vending machines, and parking, maintaining clear consistency throughout budget motel visits.
Days Inn by Wyndham Scranton PA
In the Union Dale region, Days Inn by Wyndham Scranton PA boasts a accessible location, serving as a practical base for visiting Elk Mountain SKI Area.
From curb to desk, Days Inn maintains open sightlines so new arrivals identify staff and next steps at a glance day or night. All guest rooms add a chair by the window for reading, while window coverings temper glare so downtime stays relaxed and comfortable. Outdoor pool areas set loungers, umbrellas, and rinse stations so open hours become relaxed breaks when weather and schedules allow.
With desk space, Wi-Fi, and printers plus a meeting table and coffee, sign-ins and quick edits complete cleanly before departure.
Hampton Inn Clarks Summit
The hotel's location is a strategic choice, acting as a practical base with Elk Mountain SKI Area within driving reach.
Community-style tables in Hampton Inn lobbies support group interaction, letting travelers connect casually after long journeys. Suites contain microwaves, refrigerators, and counter space, helping travelers prepare meals or refreshments with practical convenience. Meeting rooms with audiovisual gear, flexible seating, and internet access provide practical spaces for group collaboration and focus.
Complimentary Wi-Fi, breakfast buffets, business centers, outdoor pools, and laundry service create balance for both work and leisure stays.
Best Western Plus Clarks Summit Scranton
From Best Western Plus Clarks Summit Scranton, the easy regional drive to Elk Mountain SKI Area is a welcome feature to the main event for travelers.
Best Western posts concise wayfinding—arrows, placards, and floor decals—so newcomers find elevators, restrooms, and meeting points without backtracking. Guest rooms, with pillow variety, breathable linens, and steady climate, help muscles recover so wake-ups feel steadier across consecutive nights. Breakfast corners seat families at café-height tables, maintaining routines while maps load and schedules are reviewed together.
Between EV charging where offered, valet or self-parking, Wi-Fi, and vending, late arrivals resolve needs quickly with movement kept simple.
Spark by Hilton Clarks Summit
From Spark by Hilton Clarks Summit, the easy regional drive to Elk Mountain SKI Area is a core benefit before the day begins.
Hilton emphasizes consistency with polished reception counters, ensuring arrivals feel both organized and reliable worldwide. Guest rooms combine Serenity Beds, blackout curtains, and climate control, ensuring restful nights and refreshed mornings reliably. At the indoor pool, loungers, towels, and warm lighting provide spaces where travelers can refresh and recharge between busy days.
Amenities such as breakfast buffets, parking access, fitness equipment, and 24/7 markets deliver flexibility and comfort to travelers.
Holiday Inn Express Hotel and Suites Scranton by IHG
The simple regional drive from Holiday Inn Express Hotel and Suites Scranton by IHG to Elk Mountain SKI Area in Union Dale ensures guests can enjoy local convenience before the hotel experience.
Complimentary coffee stations at Holiday Inn Express provide small courtesy details that show care and help guests settle comfortably. Each guest room includes mini-fridges, coffee makers, and ample outlets, helping travelers maintain everyday routines easily. Pools with indoor lanes, loungers, and towel service create leisure areas where families and solo travelers can recharge together.
Pet-friendly policies, breakfast buffets, and Wi-Fi join with laundry and parking, offering guests care and predictability daily.
Econo Lodge Clarks Summit - Scranton
In Union Dale, Econo Lodge Clarks Summit - Scranton is situated as a practical base, which lets for simple daily travel.
Econo often situates a coffee or tea station near reception, giving arriving guests a warm pause before they head upstairs to rooms. Each suite supplies a sofa seating area, a large desk, a refrigerator and a microwave so small groups can balance work and downtime. Breakfast areas include hot buffet items, grab-and-go packs and mixed seating with outlets so early departures and remote work stay efficient.
With free Wi-Fi, hot breakfast, business services, EV charging at select hotels, laundry and a small marketplace, mornings and meetings align smoothly.
Hotel Wayne
Because Hotel Wayne is a convenient base, guests can choose to start their day with a moment of quiet reflection.
At Hotel Wayne, guests are typically greeted with boutique décor, personalized attention, and complimentary refreshments. Accommodations may include unique design, premium bedding, and boutique bathrooms that emphasize a refined and creative stay. Amenities may feature curated cocktail bars, artisanal cafés, and eclectic lounges that contribute to a creative boutique retreat.
A visit may highlight complimentary Wi-Fi, artisanal breakfast, EV charging, and laundry service, supporting consistency for travelers.
Home2 Suites by Hilton Dickson City Scranton
For those making an easy regional drive, Home2 Suites by Hilton Dickson City Scranton is a sensible base for accessing Elk Mountain SKI Area and the surrounding area.
In Home2 Suites spaces, bright finishes, playful décor, and flexible seating establish a welcoming environment that feels consistent. Every suite supplies dishwashers, fridges, and microwaves, providing dependable meal prep resources for families or long-stay travelers. The fitness center with ellipticals, bikes, and resistance equipment helps travelers keep wellness balanced while away from home.
With pet-friendly policies, outdoor seating, free Wi-Fi, and 24/7 markets, travelers maintain flexibility and balance throughout stays.
Residence Inn by Marriott Scranton
The hotel's spot as a convenient base gives Residence Inn by Marriott Scranton guests a direct way to transition into their day of travel.
Lobby coffee setups at Residence Inn highlight consistent courtesy, ensuring arrivals feel welcomed with a simple, familiar refreshment. Suites offer ergonomic desks, high-speed Wi-Fi, and task lighting, helping business travelers stay productive with comfortable work setups. Evening gathering spaces with small plates, wine service, and social seating create relaxed connection points that balance daily rhythms.
Business lounges, complimentary Wi-Fi, breakfast service, fitness centers, and event spaces deliver consistency for groups and solo travelers.
Fairfield Inn by Marriott Scranton
In the Union Dale region, Fairfield Inn by Marriott Scranton offers a strategic location, acting as a convenient base for visiting Elk Mountain SKI Area.
Fairfield Inn positions staff near the desk to direct guests toward market and seating, simplifying first steps when walking in from the curb. All guest rooms feature plush bedding, blackout drapes, and quiet HVAC, ensuring restful conditions that help travelers feel refreshed each morning. Fitness centers highlight treadmills, ellipticals, and free weights, ensuring travelers can maintain energy and balance while away from home.
Guests enjoy indoor pools, hot breakfast service, market snacks, and free Wi-Fi, providing dependable balance between comfort and convenience.
Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Dickson City / Scranton
The easy regional drive from Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Dickson City / Scranton to Elk Mountain SKI Area in Union Dale guarantees guests have a pleasant option for their daily travel.
Microtel groups seating and charging near reception, enabling quick map checks or messages and short confirmations while companions wait for keys. Every guest room includes an HDTV opposite the bed with channels, making unwind time easy after long highway miles each night. Fitness centers combine cardio machines and free weights with towel and water stations, keeping routines intact even on busy travel days.
With EV charging or ample parking at select sites, Wi-Fi, and breakfast, arrivals feel clear and departures stay reliably on schedule.
Colonial Brick Inn & Suites
For guests in the Union Dale area, Colonial Brick Inn & Suites is a practical base, a location that supports an efficient and enjoyable itinerary.
Arrivals at Colonial Brick Inn & Suites may feature vending access, efficient reception, and accessible parking to reinforce guest convenience. Each guest room typically highlights tasteful décor, climate control, and in-room coffee, creating a practical yet polished stay. Shared spaces may present vending corners, modest lobbies, and laundry rooms that reinforce straightforward consistency for travelers.
A visit may provide Wi-Fi, continental breakfast, vending areas, and guest laundry, reinforcing simple travel support for all visitors.
Lake Wanoka Resort
Because Lake Wanoka Resort is a convenient base, guests can opt to start their day with a moment of quiet reflection.
Lake Wanoka Resort often highlights practical desk service, nearby parking stalls, and compact lobby areas for smooth and direct arrivals. Guest rooms may include blackout curtains, plush bedding, and hardwood finishes, offering privacy and comfort for restful overnight stays. Facilities often provide vending access, compact breakfast areas, and laundry spaces that maintain clarity and reliability for guests.
Guests may encounter Wi-Fi, modest breakfast, vending access, and laundry support, helping create reliable balance during overnight stays.
Dunmore Inn
From Dunmore Inn, Elk Mountain SKI Area is a simple commute, a choice that makes for a smooth transition from hotel to event.
At Dunmore Inn, arrivals may include modest furnishings, complimentary parking, and vending services for daily guest accessibility. Accommodations often provide streaming-enabled TVs, climate control, and compact seating, balancing entertainment with guest comfort. Shared spaces typically feature modest lobbies, vending machines, and breakfast rooms that help sustain functional daily guest routines.
A stay often includes Wi-Fi, laundry rooms, breakfast counters, and parking, maintaining straightforward guest routines on the road.
Rodeway Inn Dunmore
Guests at Rodeway Inn Dunmore can utilize it as a practical base, a perk that adds a relaxing touch to the stay.
Design elements at Rodeway Inn are straightforward — neutral colors, simple tilework, and overhead lighting support utility-first flow. Suites may offer an added workspace, second television, or zoned lighting to suit different tasks without disturbing other guests. Shared microwaves and ice machines are positioned near elevators or markets, making small food routines or refills straightforward.
Amenities include public vending, mini‑fridges, Wi‑Fi, on‑site laundry, coffee stations, and climate-controlled in-room comfort.
Baymont by Wyndham Scranton Dunmore
In the Union Dale region, Baymont by Wyndham Scranton Dunmore offers a accessible location, acting as a practical base for visiting Elk Mountain SKI Area.
Baymont aligns front-desk counters with a low-height segment, keeping paperwork comfortable and the path to elevators unobstructed. All guest rooms provide a work desk, task lamp, and desk-height power plus Wi-Fi, letting emails and confirmations wrap without errand runs. Patio seating frames durable tables and wind screens, offering a comfortable outdoor option close to lobby entries and sightlines.
Free Wi-Fi, an HDTV area, and coffee join with breakfast and a fitness room, balancing downtime, starts, and movement under one roof.
Sleep Inn & Suites Dunmore
Elk Mountain SKI Area is within driving reach from Sleep Inn & Suites Dunmore, a layout that ensures travel logistics are never a concern.
Sleep Inn places luggage racks and storage near reception at many sites, allowing travelers to stow bags and explore common areas freely. All guest rooms feature blackout curtains, a work desk, a flat-screen TV and a mini-fridge to support sleep and basic meal prep. Meeting rooms include AV setups, modular tables and on-site support staff to streamline small meetings and local gatherings.
With free Wi-Fi, hot breakfast, pool access, business services, EV charging at select hotels and laundry, travel days flow more smoothly.
Upper Delaware Inn
The benefit of using Upper Delaware Inn as a sensible base turns it into a great hub before the main experience begins.
Guests at Upper Delaware Inn may encounter a simple desk, quick parking options, and vending access arranged for reliable budget arrivals. Rooms may highlight premium linens, rainfall showers, and curated décor, reinforcing a comfortable and modern environment for stays. Facilities may highlight vending corners, guest laundries, and compact seating zones that reinforce practical ease for each visit.
Accommodations may present Wi-Fi, vending machines, compact breakfast spaces, and laundry facilities, supporting consistent daily ease.
Green Acres Retreat
The benefit of using Green Acres Retreat as a sensible base renders it into a great anchor point before the main experience.
Green Acres Retreat typically offers efficient check-in, modest lobby chairs, and self-serve coffee that emphasize budget-style convenience. Each guest room often includes ergonomic seating, compact work surfaces, and Wi-Fi, helping maintain productivity while away from home. Public areas may include vending machines, compact breakfast rooms, and modest lobbies that support consistent convenience for guests.
A visit may highlight Wi-Fi, modest breakfast, vending access, and parking, reinforcing clear and functional travel routines daily.
Holiday Inn Scranton East - Dunmore by IHG
The easy regional drive from Holiday Inn Scranton East - Dunmore by IHG to Elk Mountain SKI Area in Union Dale ensures the commute is always efficient.
Lobby spaces at Holiday Inn & Suites include lounge bars with soft lighting, providing casual hubs for connection and relaxation. Each guest room provides ergonomic desks, supportive chairs, and strong Wi-Fi, giving professionals reliable setups for productivity. Business corners featuring desktop computers, printers, and internet access provide clarity and convenience for quick work tasks.
Free breakfast, pet policies, and Wi-Fi connect with laundry and parking, simplifying routines for extended or family travel.
Radisson Lackawanna Station Hotel Scranton
Elk Mountain SKI Area is an easy regional drive away from Radisson Lackawanna Station Hotel Scranton, a location that offers a simple way to get there.
With a visible grab-and-go case beside the desk, Radisson lets late arrivals secure snacks and drinks without wandering the property. Each guest room offers a mini-fridge, coffee kit, and reachable outlets so breakfasts and quick meals fit neatly into busy itineraries. Lobby workspaces merge communal tables, individual nooks, and abundant outlets, making quick email checks and map reviews straightforward on site.
From business center and modular meetings to a fitness room, laundry, market counters, and parking, travelers stay productive.
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Elk Mountain SKI Area Local Area Guide
Welcome to Elk Mountain Ski Area, a beloved winter destination nestled in the rolling hills of Northeast Pennsylvania. This guide is designed for skiers, snowboarders, and families looking to make the most of their mountain experience, offering practical advice on navigating the area, planning your day, and enjoying the surrounding local charm. Discover essential tips for a smooth visit, from understanding the mountain's layout to finding great places to eat and relax after hitting the slopes. Get ready for an unforgettable winter getaway at Elk Mountain.
Area contextNeighborhood Overview – Elk Mountain SKI Area (Union Dale, PA)
Elk Mountain Ski Area is situated in a scenic, rural setting within Union Dale, Pennsylvania, a community known for its natural beauty and quiet charm. The ski area is accessed via PA Route 374, a well-maintained road that offers picturesque views as you approach the mountain. Major access routes to the region include Interstate 81 and Interstate 84, which connect to smaller state highways leading to Union Dale. The nearest significant airport is Wilkes-Barre/Scranton International Airport (AVP), located about an hour's drive southeast. Driving is the primary mode of transportation here, so plan your travel accordingly. During peak winter season, especially on weekends and holidays, traffic on the local roads leading to the mountain can increase. It's advisable to arrive earlier in the day, particularly on Saturdays, to secure convenient parking and avoid potential delays at the ticket windows and rental shop. Consider checking local road conditions before your departure, as winter weather can impact travel times. Rideshare services are generally not a reliable option directly to the ski area due to its remote location.
Lodging contextWhere to Stay Near Elk Mountain SKI Area
Accommodation options for visitors to Elk Mountain are primarily found in the surrounding towns and communities within a 10- to 30-minute driving radius, rather than directly adjacent to the ski area. These areas include Pleasant Mount, Forest City, Susquehanna, and parts of Carbondale. Lodging often consists of charming inns, motels, and vacation rental homes, offering a quieter, more rustic experience compared to bustling ski resort towns. While there isn't a dense cluster of hotels directly at the mountain's base, the dispersed nature of accommodations means that booking well in advance is crucial, especially for weekend trips or during holiday periods. Visitors often find that booking a vacation rental provides more space and amenities for families or groups of skiers. Utilizing map filters to search within a 15-mile radius of the ski area is a practical approach to finding suitable lodging. Be prepared for a short, scenic drive to the mountain each day, as most hotels and rental properties are not within easy walking distance.
View nearby hotels Quick Plan EssentialsQuick-Plan Overview
- Wilkes-Barre/Scranton International Airport is approximately a 60-minute drive from the ski area.
- Arrive by 8:00 AM on weekends for optimal parking and minimal wait times at the base area.
- Explore the charming towns of Forest City or Susquehanna for local dining and shops.
- Visit the Wayne County Historical Society Museum in Honesdale for a historical indoor option.
- Regroup at the Mountain View Inn for a cozy meal or the Elk Mountain cafeteria for on-mountain convenience.
Game Day Flow
Check-In & Warm-Up
Plan to arrive early, especially on peak days, to ensure the best parking and shortest lines for tickets and rentals. Aim to be at the base area by 8:00 AM on weekends and holidays. Once you have your gear, head to the designated warm-up areas or gentle beginner slopes to get your legs accustomed to the snow conditions. This initial period allows you to assess your readiness and ensure all equipment is functioning correctly before tackling more challenging terrain. Familiarize yourself with the ski area map to orient yourself to the lift locations and trail difficulties.
Mid-Day Regroup
Consider a mid-morning break for hot chocolate or coffee at the on-mountain cafeteria to warm up and regroup. Lunchtime can be busy; either pack your own snacks and drinks to enjoy on a picnic bench (weather permitting) or plan to eat slightly before or after the main lunch rush to avoid long queues. This is also a good time for families or groups to check in with each other, assess energy levels, and decide on the afternoon’s activities. Some visitors might opt for a short rest in their car or a leisurely walk around the base area.
Wrap-Up & Departure
As the afternoon winds down, take advantage of the last runs while lifts are still operating. Begin your departure process by returning rental equipment promptly to avoid any last-minute rushes. Allow ample time for packing up your gear and walking back to your vehicle. Be prepared for potential traffic congestion on the access roads as many visitors leave simultaneously. If you plan to dine off-mountain, consider visiting a local restaurant after you've returned your gear and changed, to enjoy a meal in a more relaxed setting.
Things to Do Near Elk Mountain SKI Area
Walkable
Elk Mountain Ski Area Slopes
Elk Mountain is the primary attraction, offering a diverse range of terrain for all skill levels. From gentle beginner slopes perfect for learning to challenging expert runs and glades, there's ample opportunity for a full day of skiing and snowboarding. The area features multiple lifts servicing various sections of the mountain, ensuring efficient access to the slopes. The base lodge provides essential amenities including ticket sales, rentals, a cafeteria, and restrooms, serving as the central hub for visitors. It's an ideal spot for families and groups to spend an entire day enjoying winter sports.
On siteElk Mountain Base Lodge
The heart of the Elk Mountain experience is its base lodge, offering a warm and convenient spot for visitors to prepare for their day on the slopes. Here, you can purchase lift tickets, rent skis, snowboards, and boots, or simply gather with your group before heading out. The lodge also houses a cafeteria providing hot meals and beverages, perfect for a quick refuel or a warm-up break between runs. Restrooms and limited seating are available, making it a practical starting and ending point for your mountain adventures.
On site5–15 Minutes Away
Pleasant Mount
Pleasant Mount is a small, rural community located a short drive from Elk Mountain. It offers a glimpse into the quiet charm of the Endless Mountains region. While there are limited commercial establishments, its peaceful atmosphere provides a stark contrast to the energy of the ski slopes. It’s a place where visitors might find local antique shops or simply enjoy the serene countryside views. Its proximity makes it a convenient point for a brief scenic drive or a quick stop if you're looking for a tranquil detour.
Pleasant Mount, PA · 5.3 miForest City
Forest City is a slightly larger town accessible within a short drive from Elk Mountain, offering more amenities than Pleasant Mount. Here, visitors can find local diners, convenience stores, and a few small shops. It provides a more developed local experience, where you can grab a casual meal or pick up any last-minute supplies needed for your ski trip. The town has a historical feel, reflecting its past as a mining community. It serves as a practical stop for basic needs before or after a day on the mountain.
Forest City, PA · 7.8 miBeyond the Event: For those seeking more extensive activities or historical insights, consider venturing slightly further. Honesdale, about a 30-minute drive, offers charming downtown shopping, antique stores, and the Wayne County Historical Society Museum. This provides a great option for a less active day or for partners not skiing. Additionally, the region is dotted with state parks and natural areas that, while less accessible in deep winter, offer beautiful scenery for those looking to explore the broader natural landscape.
Dining & nightlifeFood & Drink Near Elk Mountain SKI Area
Inside & Adjacent
Elk Mountain Cafeteria
The Elk Mountain Cafeteria is your convenient, on-site dining solution for a quick and warm meal during your ski day. Located within the main base lodge, it offers classic comfort foods and hearty options designed to refuel skiers and snowboarders. Expect typical mountain fare like burgers, sandwiches, soups, and chili. It’s the perfect spot for a no-fuss lunch break, allowing you to maximize your time on the slopes with minimal travel. Seating is available, offering a warm respite from the cold.
On siteElk Mountain Lounge
The Elk Mountain Lounge provides a more relaxed atmosphere for après-ski enjoyment or a mid-day break. Situated within the main lodge, it offers a selection of beverages, including hot drinks and adult options, alongside a menu of casual food items. It’s an ideal place to gather with friends or family to recount the day's adventures, warm up by the fire, or simply enjoy a scenic view of the mountain. The lounge is a popular spot for those looking to unwind after a few hours on the slopes.
On siteNearby Gathering Spots
Mountain View Inn
The Mountain View Inn, located a short drive from Elk Mountain in Pleasant Mount, offers a cozy and traditional dining experience. This establishment is known for its welcoming atmosphere and classic American cuisine, often featuring hearty dishes suitable for a winter appetite. It’s a popular stop for skiers looking for a comfortable meal after a day on the mountain, providing a taste of local hospitality. The inn is a good choice for families or groups seeking a sit-down meal in a relaxed, rural setting away from the immediate ski area crowds.
Pleasant Mount, PA · 5.3 miThe Corner Restaurant
Nestled in Forest City, The Corner Restaurant offers a casual and friendly dining option for visitors coming from or going to Elk Mountain. This local eatery typically serves a variety of American comfort foods, often including breakfast items, sandwiches, and homestyle dinners. It's a go-to spot for a satisfying and affordable meal, providing a genuine slice of small-town Pennsylvania life. The Corner Restaurant is a practical choice for grabbing a bite without venturing too far off the direct route to or from the ski area.
Forest City, PA · 7.8 miLocal & Elevated Picks
The Stauffer House
The Stauffer House in Forest City offers a more refined dining experience within the local area, often celebrated for its quality American cuisine and pleasant ambiance. While still maintaining a down-to-earth feel fitting for the region, it provides a step up in culinary presentation and a diverse menu that might include seafood, steaks, and seasonal specials. It's an excellent choice for those seeking a memorable meal to cap off a day of skiing, offering a more intimate setting than the on-mountain cafeteria or typical diner. Reservations might be advisable, especially on busy weekends.
Forest City, PA · 7.8 miHonesdale Restaurants (e.g., The Silver Horn)
Honesdale, a charming county seat about a 20-minute drive from Elk Mountain, boasts a more varied culinary scene. Establishments like The Silver Horn offer a sophisticated dining experience with creative American dishes, often utilizing local ingredients. The downtown area also features quaint cafes, bakeries, and pubs that provide diverse options for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Exploring Honesdale allows for a wider selection of flavors and atmospheres, making it a worthwhile destination for those looking to enjoy a broader range of dining experiences beyond the immediate vicinity of the ski resort.
Honesdale, PA · 19.5 miLocal Tips & Year-Round Info
- Weekend mornings see increased traffic on PA-374, so early arrival is key to snagging prime parking spots.
- Be aware that cell service can be spotty in the rural areas surrounding the ski area; download offline maps.
- Local restaurants may have limited hours outside of peak ski season, so check ahead before making a special trip.
- Cash is useful for smaller, local establishments or for tipping ski lift operators and rental staff.
- Winter weather can change rapidly; always check forecasts and road conditions before and during your visit.
Weather & Seasons at Elk Mountain SKI Area
- Winter: Winter at Elk Mountain means cold temperatures, often hovering in the teens and twenties Fahrenheit, with regular snowfall. Dressing in layers is essential: thermal base layers, insulating mid-layers like fleece, and a waterproof and windproof outer shell for both your upper body and legs. Waterproof gloves, a warm hat, and goggles are crucial for comfort and visibility. Expect the need for a sturdy winter coat and insulated boots for time spent off the slopes.
- Spring & early summer: As winter transitions into spring, temperatures gradually warm up, typically ranging from the 40s to 60s Fahrenheit. Snow melts away, revealing the green landscape. Visitors might still need a light jacket or sweater in the evenings, but daytime is comfortable for outdoor activities. Layering remains a good strategy for variable conditions. Waterproof footwear may still be useful in early spring due to lingering dampness or mud.
- Mid-summer: Mid-summer brings the warmest weather, with daytime temperatures often reaching the 70s and 80s Fahrenheit. Light, breathable clothing is ideal. Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are highly recommended for prolonged outdoor exposure. Evenings can still be slightly cooler, so a light jacket or sweatshirt might be comfortable. Hydration is important during warmer months.
- Fall season: Fall offers crisp, cool air, with temperatures ranging from the 50s to 70s Fahrenheit in early fall, dropping into the 30s and 40s by late autumn. It’s a beautiful time for scenic drives and enjoying the foliage. Layers are key, including long-sleeved shirts, sweaters, and a medium-weight jacket. Waterproof outerwear might be needed for occasional rain showers.
- Rain & snow: Snow is common and expected during the winter months, contributing to the ski area's primary function. Ski resorts are generally equipped to handle snow, with grooming and snowmaking. Rain can occur during any season but is most frequent in spring and fall. During winter, rain can mix with snow or lead to icy conditions, impacting slope safety and travel. Always check road conditions and have appropriate traction for your vehicle if winter travel is necessary.
Venue Facts & Trip Essentials
Venue facts
- Primary purpose: Skiing and snowboarding
- Neighborhood: Rural countryside of Union Dale
- Nearest airport: Wilkes-Barre/Scranton International Airport (AVP)
- Parking: Ample on-site lots, fills early on peak days
- Walkable district: Limited to the ski area base lodge
Trip essentials
- Groceries & supplies: Available in nearby towns like Forest City
- Pharmacy: Located in Forest City or Honesdale
- Urgent care: Closest facilities in Carbondale or Honesdale
- Downtime: Cozy inns, local diners, scenic drives
- Pro tip: Arrive before 8 AM on weekends for the best parking and rental experience.

