Shawnee Mountain, located in the Poconos, is the closest major Pennsylvania ski area to metropolitan New York and New Jersey.

Shawnee's 23 slopes and trails, variety of beginner and intermediate runs, tremendous lift capacity (12,600 per hour) and commitment to snowmaking and grooming make it a great family destination.

Shawnee Mountain is always among the earliest Pocono ski areas to open, usually for Thanksgiving weekend. A powerful snowmaking system covers 100 percent of all slopes and trails, and 95 percent of the slopes are illuminated for night skiing.

Groups and senior citizens can take advantage of discounts as well as many other affordable packages.

The towns of Stroudsburg and East Stroudsburg also offer a wide range of lodging accommodations, restaurants and shopping.

To get to Shawnee Mountain from points east or west, take I-80 to Exit 52. Head north on Route 209 and follow the signs.