Ridley Creek in Winter

Ridley Creek State Park stays open every day in winter, sunrise to sunset. When snow falls, the big grassy slope by the park office at Hunting Hill Mansion is the park's sledding hill, and the trails open to cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. DCNR's guide recommends the Bridle Trail for skiing, and the paved multi-use trail is designated for skiers too. The restrooms in Picnic Areas 7 and 17 stay open all year. Check DCNR's Winter Report for snow depth before you drive out.

Sledding

DCNR names one sledding spot: the large grassy slope by the park office. Park in the mansion lot. There is no lift, lighting or staff at the hill, so sled in daylight and check the run for obstacles first.

Cross-Country Skiing

Skiers may use the hiking trails and the paved multi-use trail when there is enough snow. DCNR's printed guide recommends the Bridle Trail, with its two loops in the north of the park. The multi-use trail along Sycamore Mills Road is the gentlest option. Check each trail's difficulty rating first; all the blazed trails are rated "more difficult" (All trails).

Snowshoeing

All park trails are open for snowshoeing. The White Trail loop brings you back to your car without retracing your steps.

Before You Go

• Read DCNR's Winter Report, which lists ice and snow depth for state parks.
• The park is closed to the public on December 3 and December 10, 2026 for controlled deer hunts (Hunting).
• DCNR names the restrooms in Areas 7 and 17 as open every day.
• Bring local firewood only if you plan to use a grill; Pennsylvania has a firewood quarantine.

Winter Wildlife

With the leaves down, it is easier to spot white-tailed deer and the great blue herons that work Ridley Creek (Wildlife).