If winter weather has you wanting to strap on snowshoes or cross-country skis, or try ice fishing for the first time, the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources is unveiling a new online service that points you to the right place — at the right time.
A winter activities map, highlighting seven cold-weather activities and the state parks and forests where they can be found, is the latest addition to DCNR’s “story maps.”
“Locations, directions, snow and ice conditions, it’s all there as visitors to our website take a virtual tour of the many state park and forestlands offering winter fun and excitement,” said DCNR Secretary Ellen Ferretti. “Whether it’s a snowshoeing class next week at Pike County’s Promised Land State Park or an ice-fishing clinic next month at Presque Isle State Park in Erie County, outdoors enthusiasts will find this latest ‘story map’ invaluable.”
Other winter activities featured include downhill skiing, snowmobiling, ice boating, ice skating and sledding. Map visitors also will find easy access to a “winter activities report” listing up-to-date snow and ice conditions.
“Regardless of winter interests, map users can scroll across the state and pick activities and locations where they are offered,” Ferretti said. “This concept has worked so well in the past as we addressed geologic wonders, fall foliage, must-see parks, waterfalls and other special interests of our park and forest visitors.”
The newest map can be accessed here and it works well on both desktop and mobile devices. Users can stay abreast of special winter festivals, clinics and group activities by visiting DCNR’s Activities Calendar and the Get Outdoors Pennsylvania site.