With the busy holiday season over, you may find yourself with extra time in your schedule. There’s no need to hibernate in your home all winter long when you can get outside to try a new snow sport or reacquaint yourself with winter activities you’ve previously enjoyed. Why not explore winter fun in Pennsylvania's Americana Region?
Berks County offers adventure seekers, nature lovers, and sport enthusiasts the perfect spot to enjoy your favorite winter activities.
For the Thrill Seekers: Ski, Snowboard, and Tube at Bear Creek
Shred fresh powder on the 86 acres of slopes, trails, and terrain parks at Bear Creek Mountain Resort. Families travel from far and wide to ski, snowboard, and tube at this premier winter vacation spot, and with lights on the slopes, your fun doesn’t have to end at sunset.
Bear Creek welcomes all level of expertise on their slopes, from beginners in need of instruction to experienced riders who prefer the resort’s terrain parks and black diamond trails. You’ll feel your adrenaline rush this winter as you cruise down the side of the mountain on skis, snowboard, or snow tube. For the Active Families: Skate at Body Zone
Head to Body Zone Sports and Wellness Complex this winter and take a spin at ice skating! Body Zone hosts public ice skating at their rink and offers skate rentals for those who don’t own a pair themselves. You can also enroll in skate lessons to learn professional techniques, as well as training for figure skating, speed skating, and hockey clinics.
If gliding around the ice is not for you, Body Zone houses an award-winning and state-of-the-art wellness and aquatics center, two synthetic grass sports fields, basketball/volleyball court, and much more at the facility.
For the Trail Explorers: Hike the Trails at Hawk Mountain
If you’re experiencing cabin fever this winter, bundle up and get outside. Try hiking the trails at Hawk Mountain Sanctuary. With more than eight miles of hiking trails that vary in length and difficulty, you can choose the adventure that fits your experience level. Hawk Mountain also offers an ADA compliant trail, making this beautiful destination accessible for everyone.
During your trek, you’ll most likely come across breathtaking views of snow-covered scenery, and beautiful wildlife, such as winter songbirds, in their natural habitats. Clear your mind and enjoy a peaceful outing when you visit the Sanctuary.
For the Sport Fanatics: Watch a Reading Royals Game
So you tried your skill at ice skating, and now you want to watch professionals compete in the rink? Attend a Reading Royals ice hockey game at the Santander Arena. Each home game throughout the season has a unique theme including Pink in the Rink, Wine Wednesday, First Responders Night, and Marvel Superhero Night with coinciding specials, games, giveaways, and food.
The games will continue until the end of March, and you’re guaranteed to have a good time regardless of how competitive you are!
For the Downhill Riders: Mountain Bike with BAMBA
BAMBA, or the Berks Area Mountain Biking Association, stays active during the entire year with planned rides, events, and group meetings. The non-profit educational association organizes group rides for cyclists at every skill level — from beginner to expert — and prioritizes the feeling of inclusiveness.
If you’re looking to get outdoors and stay active this winter, not familiar with the nearby biking trails, joining BAMBA is a great opportunity to meet new people and explore new places.
For the Outdoor Enthusiasts: Ice Fish at Ontelaunee Lake
You might consider fishing a summer activity, but how about ice fishing? Pack up your bait and tackle and visit Ontelaunee Lake this winter to hook your big catch! Remember that all anglers age 16 and older must have a valid Pennsylvania fishing license and you can read important safety information on the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation & Natural Resources’ website.
Some safety tips include testing the thickness of the ice before fishing, leaving plenty of space between yourself and another fisher, always wearing a life jacket, and being alert for cracks or logs in the ice. Ice fishing can be a great outdoor activity to do with the whole family, as long as you follow state regulations and safety tips!
Get Outside This Winter
Whether you’re a local to Pennsylvania’s Americana Region or you’re looking for a seasonal getaway, winter fun awaits you in Berks County! The area offers snow sports, indoor recreation, and nature activities that will cure anyone’s cabin fever!