For many skiers in the tri-state area, the allure of larger resorts further away is undeniable. Long weekends in Vermont, Utah, Colorado and beyond often provide adventures with memories that last a lifetime. However, there are also those moments when life kicks in making longer trips less and less attainable. That’s when a quick day trip or weekend getaway to a local resort is exactly what’s needed. With Camelback Ski Resort and Blue Mountain Ski Resort now on their second season on the Ikon Pass, the opportunity to enjoy convenient, quality skiing close to home is better than even better.
Convenient, Close and Perfect for Quick Getaways
Photo Credit: Camelback Resort
Both Camelback Resort and Blue Mountain offer proximity to major cities like Philadelphia and New York City, making them ideal for a quick day trip or short weekend getaway. For anyone living in New Jersey, New York or Pennsylvania, these resorts are easily reachable thereby reducing travel time and increasing your time on the slopes
- Camelback is located in the Poconos and is about 1.5 hours from Philadelphia and just under 2 hours from New York City. It’s perfect for those spontaneous weekend trips where you don’t want to spend all your time on the road.
- Blue Mountain, located in the Lehigh Valley, is just under 2 hours from Philadelphia and slightly over 2 hours from New York—a bit further, but still totally manageable for a weekend day trip.
Short drives like these allow maximum time on the slopes making them a perfect option for parents juggling busy schedules while trying to fit in some skiing or snowboarding.
A Resort for Every Skill Level
Photo Credit: Camelback Resort
Beyond their convenient location near major tri-state area cities, both Camelback Resort and Blue Mountain offer something for every skier and snowboarder, from first-timers to seasoned pros. Camelback is especially known for its family-friendly atmosphere. The newer Black Bear Six lift quickly whisks skiers and riders up the mountain, where beginners and intermediates can enjoy wide, gentle slopes perfect for building confidence.
Meanwhile, more advanced skiers will appreciate the uncrowded, challenging runs across the top. For families with younger kids, Camelback’s massive snow tubing park and indoor waterpark at Camelback Lodge provide plenty of off-mountain fun when little legs need a break.Â
Photo Credit: Blue Mountain
On the other hand, Blue Mountain offers more of a big mountain feel and has earned a reputation for its challenging terrain and snowboard parks. Advanced skiers and snowboarders will enjoy their steep runs and impressive drop-offs. It’s like the perfect mix of adrenaline and technical skiing. The terrain park at Blue Mountain is also a huge draw for those in the area who like to hit some jumps and rails, making it a great spot for groups of freestyle skiers and snowboarders.
Either way, if you’re looking for family-friendly slopes or adrenaline-pumping runs, both resorts have you covered.
Après-Ski and Dining: More Than Just the Slopes
For many, après-ski is as important as the skiing itself. Both Camelback and Blue Mountain offer fun après-ski options that make them perfect spots for hanging out after a day on the slopes.
Photo Credit: Camelback Resort
- Camelback has a laid-back, family-friendly après scene with bars and restaurants where you can unwind with a warm drink or a cold local brew. They also have a lot of fun events and the aforementioned snow tubing and Aquatopia water park, making it a great place to hang after skiing.
- Blue Mountain offers a more relaxed après-ski scene, with many eateries dispersed throughout the mountain that make it easy to grab a drink and enjoy hanging with friends. The view from the top of the mountain at the outdoor Trail’s End Pub is always amazing and perfect for sitting by their monster outdoor firepit and watching the sun go down, beer in hand.
Whether you’re craving a hearty meal, a cozy drink or just some time to unwind, these resorts have plenty to offer once you’re off the slopes.
Why the Ikon Pass Is a Game-Changer for East Coast Skiers
Photo Credit: Camelback Resort
With Camelback and Blue Mountain now on the Ikon Pass, enjoying the best of East Coast skiing has never been easier. For skiers and riders who frequent larger, more distant resorts, the flexibility of the Ikon Pass is a game-changer. Now, tri-state area locals can hit the slopes close to home without missing out on the perks of a multi-resort pass.
- Camelback Ski Resort is known for its consistent snow conditions, a variety of terrain and a family-friendly atmosphere that is worth exploring any time of the winter.
- Blue Mountain is a top-notch East Coast ski resort with a reputation for challenging runs, great snow parks and stellar snow conditions thanks to their new and improved snow making system.
Photo Credit: Blue Mountain
Having these two resorts in Pennsylvania as part of the Ikon Pass opens up even more skiing opportunities without needing to leave the tri-state area ultimately allowing busy skiers and riders the opportunity to squeeze in a day amidst a hectic schedule.Â
The Best of Both Worlds: Local Skiing and Big Resort Adventures
Photo Credit: Blue Mountain
If you’re a tri-state area skier, Camelback and Blue Mountain are excellent additions to the Ikon Pass. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly escape or challenging terrain, both resorts offer something for everyone. And with the added convenience of being close to home, you can squeeze in a day or weekend of skiing without the long drive. With the Ikon Pass, you get easy access to these fantastic resorts, plus a ton of other amazing mountains across the East Coast and beyond. If you’re looking to balance those big trips with local, easy-to-access ski destinations, Camelback and Blue Mountain should definitely be on your radar.
About the Author
Rich Stoner is the founder of the après-ski lifestyle clothing and media brand, All About Après. He is also the co-host of the Beyond the Après podcast. No stranger to the ski and après-ski scene, Rich has been a long time contributor for many publications on topics like skiing, gear, beer and food. However, his passion is on the slopes and enjoying good times with good people. You can find him perfecting his craft carving turns and drinking beers in the Green Mountains of Vermont. @allaboutapres