Where to Find the Best Snowmobiling in Northeast PA
The backcountry around Carbondale provides some of the best snowmobiling in Northeast PA. Groomed trails through rolling landscapes and dense forests make this part of Pennsylvania a haven for sledders. Hotel Anthracite offers the accessibility and convenience of an urban setting that is within a few miles of some of the best snowmobiling in Northeast PA.
Plan a winter getaway to make tracks in scenic surroundings. Download our free Northeastern Pennsylvania Destination Guide to be in the know on all the things to see and do while you’re in the area.
D & H RAIL TRAIL
This 38-mile recreational system has a trailhead in nearby Simpson. Visitors will enjoy a wide trail that travels north to Lanesboro at the New York State border. Along the route riders will pass through the towns of Vandling, Forest City, Union Dale, Herrick Center, Burnwood, Ararat, Thompson, Starrucca and Stevens Point.
O & W RAIL TRAIL
Another railroad bed turned recreational system also begins in the town of Simpson. The trail runs parallel to the D&H for eight miles often with the Lackawanna River between the two. Towns along the O&W include Vandling, Browndale, Union Dale, Herrick Center and Orson. The trail continues east to Hancock, NY and the Delaware River. While the Rail Trail Council controls the first eight-miles of the O&W from Simpson to Stillwater Dam, the mid-section is privately owned and allows ATVs with trail passes. From Poyntelle north the trail is owned and regulated as low-maintenance roads by Preston and Buckingham Townships.
ENDLESS MOUNTAINS TRAIL
Although this 10-mile trail has the distinction of being one of the first rail trails in the country, it is very rugged in spots. The route extends from Alford to Montrose. Work is underway by the Rail Trail Council of Northeast PA to preserve the system. During winter, Susquehanna County Snowmobilers Association grooms and maintains the Endless Mountains Trail. The trailhead is located at Locust Street in Montrose Borough. The trail continues through Bridgewater Township paralleling Route 706 and on to the Heart Lake Area.
NEP SNO TRAILS
One of the largest snowmobile trail systems in Pennsylvania is operated and maintained by a private organization. The members-only group oversees 200 miles of trails through a lease agreement with over 200 landowners. NEP Sno Trails, a PA State Snowmobile Association member, grooms the D & H and O & W Trails each winter. The arrangement links trails on private lands to the public system, regulates snowmobilers and opens up countless miles of trails for recreational use. Riders must have insurance and secure a pass from NEP Sno Trails before venturing on to private trails. Visitors are also asked to follow all the safety and courtesy rules put in place by the organization.
STATE GAME LANDS 159
There are over 9,000 acres set aside in this part of Wayne County, west of Rileyville. The rolling terrain is mostly wooded and divided by Dyberry Creek. Snowmobiling is permitted in specially designated areas.
PINCHOT STATE FOREST
At the southern end of Lackawanna County in Thornhurst, sledders may enjoy and extensive 24-mile trail for snowmobiling. The system is well-marked and open for snowmobiling at the end of deer hunting season when weather conditions permit. Pinchot State Forest is comprised of 50,000 forested acres in mountainous terrain near the confluence of the Susquehanna and Lackawanna Rivers. Snowmobilers may offload at Manny Gordon Picnic Area as well as the parking area at the intersection of Pittston Road and Bear Lake Road.
SUSQUEHANNA COUNTY SNOWMOBILERS’ ASSOCIATION
This members-only group maintains trails in Montrose, New Milford, Harford and surrounding areas. The trail system is comprised almost entirely of private land throughout Susquehanna County operated under strict landowner approval and enforcement of association rules. In order to maintain the integrity of the land, no wheeled vehicles are permitted on the trails. During winter, member volunteers groom and maintain the trails. Each December the group offers a free snowmobile safety course. Although it’s geared for youth riders, the course is available for everyone.
SNOWMOBILE SAFETY
Before snowmobiling in Northeast PA, here are a few safety measures and rules to keep in mind.
- Helmets are required for the driver and passengers.
- No one under the age of 10 may operate a snowmobile.
- Riders between the age of 10 and 16 must complete a safety education course and receive a snowmobile safety training certificate in order to ride on public lands.
- All snowmobiles must be registered with Pennsylvania’s Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR). A two year registration fee is $20.
- Liability insurance coverage is required for all registered snowmobiles. The operator should carry proof of coverage.
- All snowmobiles in Pennsylvania must have a title issued by DCNR. The cost of a title is $22.50.
- When operating a snowmobile at night or with visibility below 500 feet, headlights and taillights are required.
MAKE TRACKS
Snowmobiling in Northeast PA is an exciting way to enjoy the great outdoors during winter. Plan a getaway to ride the trails near Hotel Anthracite. Our covered garage offers plenty of space for trailer parking. After a day of thrills and chills, return to a wonderful meal at our own Kol Grill and a good night’s rest in guest rooms that are spacious, ultra-comfortable and modern. Check availability and book a stay today.
