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MATPRA is a cohesive unit of regional tourism partners encompassing Delaware, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Washington D.C. and West Virginia.

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8 Things to Do in Winter at Presque Isle

Though known for its beaches and water activities in the summer, Presque Isle State Park is magic all year round. Visit Presque Isle in the winter to experience all the splendor of the season and get a dose of fresh air at Pennsylvania’s most visited state park.

Take a Winter Walk

Though the paved multipurpose trail is the natural place to walk year-round, there are many more places to explore Presque Isle. If the ice is thick enough, venture out onto Presque Isle Bay to catch a unique view of the park and the city of Erie that you can only get once a year. On the lake side of the peninsula, taking a walk on the beach is a new experience in the winter, with ice dunes visible from the shore.

Please view the ice dunes from afar. It is never safe to step onto the dunes. 

Go Birding

Presque Isle State Park is known to be one of the top birding spots in the country, and that continues in winter. A wide variety of waterfowl can be seen from shore, as well as gull species on the shoreline, and owls high in the trees. The waterfowl migration over the peninsula happens during late November through December, and large concentrations of diving ducks can be seen off shore until ice closes over. Stop at any of the bay side vista lots to get a good view, or head to Leo’s Landing and Thompson Bay for the best diversity. Snowy Owls are a stunner to see in person, and the best place to see them is at Gull Point from the designated observation platform and trail.

Cross Country Ski on Fox Trail

The half-mile Fox Trail is across from the Presque Isle Lighthouse, winding through wooded swamps and oak-maple trees, providing a picturesque, forested byway between the Sidewalk Trail and a portion of the Karl Boyes Multi-Purpose Trail. Other trails that are great for cross-country skiing include the Sidewalk Trail and Dead Pond Trail.

Snowshoe on Long Pond Trail

This one-mile trail follows the shoreline of Long Pond, one of the ponds within the park’s lagoon, near the entrance to the East Pier. The trail is ideal for snowshoe exploration and has great opportunities to see some of the park’s wildlife population, including some very active beavers that typically cut a noticeable path through the trail near the eastern trailhead. Other snowshoe trails at the park include Pine Tree Trail and Ridge Trail.

Go Ice Fishing

With its many ponds and sheltered bays, as well as wide array of fish species, Presque Isle State Park is well regarded as a top ice fishing destination in Pennsylvania. Some of the most popular locations are Presque Isle Bay, Misery Bay, Horseshoe Pond, and Presque Isle Marina. Common catches are yellow perch, panfish, northern pike, walleye, and the occasional steelhead. When ice fishing, exercise caution and think safety first: test ice thickness with an auger, always carry safety equipment, and know how to use it. Ice should be at least four inches thick for a single person, and seven inches thick for a small group.

Watch a Winter Sunset

Presque Isle is known for its world-class sunsets, and when the sun sets on the horizon between the snow-dusted sand and the frozen lake, it’s simply breathtaking. The best spot to watch is at Sunset Point, also known as Kite Beach, but any location on the lake side of Presque Isle will give viewers a great vantage point. Bring blankets and some hot cocoa and really make it an experience.

Attend an Event

Events don’t end in the winter, especially when there’s so much to explore. The Presque Isle Partnership hosts an annual Winter Discovery Day at Presque Isle, that’s all about getting outside. The event features ice fishing, sled dog demonstrations, crafts, and more. The 2026 event is planned for Saturday, February 7. Park officials host events like guided hikes and wildlife seminars year-round.

Go Sightseeing

Though many favorite summer attractions aren’t open in the same way in winter, it’s fun to see them in a new light. Check out staple attractions like the Perry Monument, the Presque Isle Lighthouse, and the North Pier Light on a snowy backdrop. They make for great photo ops all year round.

Know Before You Go

Presque Isle State Park is open daily from 5 a.m. to sunset. After dusk, driving is allowed until 9 p.m. Keep the following in mind while you plan your trip: 

  • The park is dog-friendly in all areas! Please keep your dog on a leash and always pick up after them. 
  • The Tom Ridge Environmental Center is located at the entrance to Presque Isle State Park and not only houses its own collection of interesting information and exhibits about Presque Isle, but it’s also home to the Erie Visitor Center. 
    Both are open Tuesday through Saturday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. during the winter months. 
  • Though many park restrooms are closed during the winter, those at the Rotary Pavilion, Public Safety Building, Perry Monument, the Niagara Boat Launch, Lighthouse Beach, and North Pier Light are open year-round. 
  • Roads at Presque Isle are plowed, but never treated with salt or other chemicals, in order to protect wildlife. 

Five Places to Explore the Outdoors in Erie this Winter

Erie gets a lot of snow – and does it better than anyone. Visit Erie for a true snow day and embrace the snowy season. Grab your gear, bundle up, and make plans to play in the snow at one of these snowy spots this winter.

Presque Isle State Park

Presque Isle isn’t just a summer destination – it’s a peaceful, and still destination in the winter months. The trails at Presque Isle are open for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, in addition to hiking and birdwatching. The paved Karl Boyes Multi-Purpose Trail is plowed from the main park entrance to the Public Safety Building, allowing visitors to navigate the path with ease. The trail is left snow covered from the Public Safety Building to Perry Monument. Beyond the park, winter is a great time to get out on the ice of Presque Isle Bay when it’s thick enough to safely do so (the general rule is 4″ for a single angler, 6″ for ice boating, and 7″ for a small group). Presque Isle Bay and Misery Bay are popular for skating, pond hockey, and ice fishing.  On the lake side, walk the beaches to admire the ice dunes, but don’t climb on them. Their instability makes walking on them extremely dangerous.

Asbury Woods

Throughout winter, as long as there are at least six inches of snow on the ground, Asbury Woods allows visitors to snowshoe or cross-country ski across five trails that wind through its scenic 216-acre property of native species, old-growth forests, and sprawling terrain. Visitors can bring their own gear or rent equipment inside the Nature Center. For those new to either sport or looking to refine their technique, Asbury Woods offers basic skills clinics on weekends during the winter months, weather permitting. When there isn’t enough snow, visitors can still enjoy outdoor fun with various nature hikes.

Peek’n Peak

The region’s biggest ski resort is at Peek’n Peak, just over the New York line in Clymer, NY. Featuring 26 trails and slopes of varying difficulty levels, as well as three terrain parks for those looking to get creative, the Peek offers a complete winter getaway experience, so you never have to leave the resort. Rentals and lessons are available on site. Skiing isn’t a prerequisite for visiting: the seven-lane tubing hill includes a “Magic Carpet” lift to take tubers to the top, and is colorfully lit up at night for “Lunar Lights.” Between runs, warm up at the lodge, where a full restaurant and bar are available, as well as a pool, spa, and lodging.

Mount Pleasant of Edinboro

Nestled among the rolling hills of Edinboro, just south of Erie, Mount Pleasant of Edinboro is a small ski resort with a big family atmosphere. Mount Pleasant features 15 distinct trails with difficulties ranging from beginner to advanced, including six trails that are supported with snowmaking and lights for night skiing. Additionally, the eight-lane, 600-foot tubing hill features a tube tow to take visitors back to the top. The resort also offers a covered conveyor lift, tubing tow, clubhouse, equipment rentals, and a tuning shop.

Wilderness Lodge

In the heart of the snowbelt on the Pennsylvania State Line, you’ll find Wilderness Lodge: a woodsy haven for snow lovers, with more than 18 miles of groomed trails for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Wilderness Lodge sits on the southwest edge of the Chautauqua Ridge, benefiting from the area’s frequent lake effect snow. Ski and snowshoe rentals are available for both classic and skate skiing.

The Ultimate Long Winter Weekend in Erie, PA

A two or three-day winter weekend escape to Erie promises unforgettable memories for the whole family. While it’s impossible to experience everything the region offers, a few must-visit spots will ensure a memorable trip. From plunging down water slides at Splash Lagoon to exploring the history of Presque Isle State Park, your two or three-day getaway awaits. Here are some fun suggestions to help you plan.

Day 1

Morning: Fuel up with a hearty homestyle breakfast at Avanti’s, a local favorite since 1975. Breakfast is available all day, including a wide selection of omelets, a classic choice.
Mid-Morning: The Tom Ridge Environmental Center is a free attraction that details the formation and inhabitants of Presque Isle State Park, Erie’s top attraction, through two floors of interactive exhibits. There’s also a 75-foot observation tower with panoramic views of Lake Erie.
Lunch: Everyone is part of the family and welcomed with open arms at Roma’s Italian Kitchen. Known for its fresh ingredients, authentic flavors, and more than generous portions, this family-forward restaurant offers traditional Italian fare, family-style options, and delicious house specialties such as the lasagna, one of Erie’s best.
Afternoon: Spark your family’s creativity with a hands-on pottery class at Allen Stoneware Gallery. This interactive experience is perfect for groups up to 16 and appropriate for ages 8 and up, offering step-by-step guidance to help everyone craft two functional take-home pieces.
Dinner: Enjoy outdoor winter waterfront dining from the comfort of a fully heated igloo at Two45 Waterfront Grille! The igloos accommodate up to eight guests and offer stunning views of Erie’s Bayfront in all its winter splendor.

Day 2

Morning: Give a Crepe/La Creperie adds a delicious twist to breakfast with homemade savory and sweet crepes crafted from locally sourced ingredients. A fan favorite is the Fosters Banana Caramel, featuring your choice of an orange or vanilla crepe filled with sliced bananas and house-made cinnamon caramel sauce. Gluten-free and vegan options are available.
Mid-Morning: Indulge in Erie’s iconic sponge candy at Romolo Chocolates—a crispy honeycomb toffee coated in milk or dark chocolate. Pair it with handcrafted cocoa from the Cocoa Café, served warm and creamy or icy and refreshing.
Lunch: Quaker Steak & Lube is a hit with families thanks to its fun atmosphere, flavorful wings, and kid-friendly menu. The added bonus of duckpin bowling makes it an ideal dining and entertainment spot.
Afternoon/Evening: Consistently ranked as one of the “Top 10 Water Park Resorts” in the country by USA Today’s 10Best Readers’ Choice, Splash Lagoon Indoor Water Park has excitement for every age with tropical island vibes, towering slides, gentle splash zones, endless amenities, and the largest indoor wave pool in the Eastern U.S. In addition, Splash Lagoon has an arcade, tree tops ropes course, on-site dining, and is conveniently connected to three hotels.

 

Day 3 Add-On

Morning: The day begins with breakfast at The Bakery on 5th, where American and Turkish flavors come together in a tempting array of sweet treats, coffees, hot chocolates, and teas. From muffins and shortcakes to Midye Baklava, a nutty, buttery Turkish delight, there’s something for everyone.
Mid-Morning: Create, explore, imagine, and play at the expERIEnce Children’s Museum. Fresh off a multi-million dollar renovation and expansion, the museum now features three floors of immersive exhibits, including Lake Life, an Erie-themed interactive water play delight.
Lunch: Even the pickiest of eaters will find something they love at The Flagship City Food Hall. This family-friendly community dining hub showcases all local vendors, such as ippa Pizza, Cheeserie, Noodlelove, and Taco Cantina.
Afternoon: Five Iron Golf seamlessly blends indoor golf and entertainment for a fun family experience.  State-of-the-art simulators allow you to play on renowned golf courses from around the world or enjoy interactive video games that are suitable for all ages.
Dinner: You can’t help but smile at the cheerful robots delivering meals at Noods Station 3 & Tsaocaa Bubble Tea. These friendly robots (with human helpers) bring flavorful dishes of Asian fusion cuisine, including steaming bowls of ramen and pho, perfect for a chilly winter day. Don’t miss the Tsaocaa bubble tea, a fruity fun drink with chewy tapioca pearls.

Lodging

  • Elevate your Erie getaway by staying in a luxurious treehouse. Nestled in the woods just outside the city, Lake Erie Treehouses feature modern amenities set amidst a peaceful winter landscape.
  • Three hotels directly connect to Splash Lagoon, a convenient benefit, especially during colder weather.
  • Click here for a complete list of Erie County lodging options.

Know Before You Go

  • Call ahead to reserve igloo space at Two45 Waterfront Grille: 814-240-7263.
  • Splash Lagoon offers a variety of family-friendly overnight packages.
  • Parking in Downtown Erie is easy to find with ample street and ramp options.
  • Make sure to order your free copy of the 2025 Erie Visitor Guide for more trip inspiration!

Winter, Walk This Way: A Guide to Snowshoeing in Erie, PA

Guest Contributor: Heather Cass

Erie receives an average of more than 100 inches of snow each year, making it a winter lover’s playground. From skiing to ice fishing to snowmobiling, there is no shortage of outdoor fun to be found in the area. If you’d like to have some fun in the flakes, one of the easiest and most pleasurable ways to do so is to strap on a pair of snowshoes and start exploring.

Where to go

You can find miles of trails to snowshoe at Presque Isle State Park, Asbury Woods, and Peek’n Peak Resort.

However, the joy of snowshoeing is that you can do it anywhere you find snow—even off-trail, through public game lands, along the waterfront, or, for a unique Erie experience, on the frozen waters of Presque Isle Bay! (Note that the ice should be at least seven inches thick to walk on the bay. Check ice reports here).

Snowshoeing at Presque Isle State Park at sunset is an awe-inspiring trek. Some of Erie’s most beautiful evening skies are in the winter when the colors overhead are offset by a blanket of sparkling white snow on the landscape and the breathtaking ice dunes that hug and protect the Lake Erie shoreline from sand erosion. Just remember to admire the ice dunes from a distance and avoid walking on them, as they are hollow and dangerous.

Asbury Woods provides a peaceful escape where the only sounds are the crunch of fresh powder beneath your feet and the whisper of the wind through the trees. “Snowshoeing is a great way to get outside and get some fresh air and exercise in the colder months,” said Sarah Bennett, director of education and community programs at Asbury Woods Nature Center. “Physically, it is a little more rigorous than walking, but it doesn’t require any special skills.”

At Peek’n Peak Resort, rolling hills and snow-draped trees create a breathtaking backdrop for your snowshoeing adventure. With each step through the crisp, powdery trails, it’s an invigorating rush of fresh mountain air.

What to know

“If you can walk, you can snowshoe,” Bennett said. The key is to remain aware of how large your feet are with snowshoes on. Clown-shoe-size feet require extra care when turning or changing direction and when following others. “You want to stay a foot or two away from the person in front of you so you don’t accidentally step on the back of their snowshoe, which will trip you both up,” she said.

Bennett said that snowshoeing does require some balance, but trekking poles can help provide stability for those who may need it. Most snowshoes come with poles, whether purchased or rented.

Where to find shoes

Both Asbury Woods and Peek’n Peak Resort rent snowshoes for use on their trails, provided there is at least six inches or more of snow. Another option is to invest in your own snowshoes. A set of entry-level, recreational shoes sells for as little as $60 online and at mass retailers.

What to wear

You will work up a sweat from the effort of snowshoeing. This is what makes snowshoeing such a pleasurable wintertime activity. You can be outdoors enjoying the winter wonderland while generating more than enough heat to stay warm.

“We suggest that people dress the same as they would if they were going cross-country skiing,” Bennett said. “It’s best to dress in layers, so you can take some clothing off if you start to overheat and put it back on if you get chilled.”

Suggested attire:

  • Waterproof winter boots
  • Long, warm socks
  • Gloves (add mittens on top on very cold days)
  • Warm hat
  • Scarf or gaiter
  • Fleece-lined tights or snow pants
  • Moisture-wicking, long-sleeve top
  • Fleece pullover or light sweatshirt
  • Jacket, coat, or windbreaker, depending on temperature/windchill
  • Sunglasses (daytime) or headlamp (evening)

Heather Cass is Publications Manager at Penn State Behrend.

Five Great Places to Hike in Erie, Pennsylvania

Fifty-seven percent of Pennsylvania is forested. In fact, the state’s name translates into “Penn’s Woods,” Penn referring to William Penn who established the first colony, and “Sylvania,” which means woods or forest in Latin.  For those who like to hike and spend time in nature, there are numerous places to do so in the Erie area. There is a trail suitable for nearly any age or ability and most are just a short drive from the city.

Here are five great hiking spots to explore in Erie County:

Presque Isle State Park

Presque Isle State Park has several trails, ranging from very short connector trails to a 13-mile paved multipurpose trail that encircles the park. There are three good middle-of-the-road options for those who want to get off the beaten path and walk in nature a mile or so: Dead Pond Trail, 2 miles; Long Pond Trail, 1 mile; and the Sidewalk Trail, 1.25 miles. All three are out-and-back trails near the top of the park that are marked with signage and are easily accessible from the road/multipurpose trail. See a PISP trail map here.

Erie Bluffs State Park

Erie Bluffs State Park, 17 miles west of Erie, in Lake City, is Erie’s other state park. This 587-acre park is a wilder, less-developed area with a mile of shoreline and 90-foot bluffs overlooking Lake Erie.  The park has a total of 5.16 miles of trails that are made up of several short trails that connect at various points, so you can easily string several small trails together for a longer hike. The trails are well marked. There is ample parking at the main entrance and portable toilets and lake access at the nearby Elk Creek access entrance. See an Erie Bluffs trail map here.

Tip: Pennsylvania State Park Rangers offer several free programs, hikes, and activities at both parks.

Asbury Woods

Asbury Woods is a 234-acre nature center west of Erie, with acres of fields, forests, wetlands, and more than 5 miles of wooded and well-maintained trails that traverse through them. The longest, The Greenway Trail, 2.2 miles, connects a series of land parcels, with Asbury Woods Nature Center and Brown’s Farm anchoring each end. A highlight of this trail is a scenic steel walking bridge over Walnut Creek that offers access to the creek where you can cool your heels.  Asbury Woods Nature Center offers animal exhibits, information, restrooms, and a gift shop. There are also picnic pavilions and play areas for children.  See an Asbury Woods trail map here.

Headwaters Park

Headwaters Park is a hidden gem, an oasis of nature on thirty-five acres tucked into an industrial park in Millcreek. So named because it is the start of the headwaters of Mill Creek, you’ll find nearly three miles of trails on this parcel of nature covered with mature hardwoods, native grasses, wildflowers, and more.  There is interpretive signage, a boardwalk over the wetlands, an accessible stream for fossil hunting, ample parking, picnic tables, and portable toilets. See a map of Headwaters Park trails here.

Wintergreen Gorge

The Wintergreen Gorge is a 4,000-foot long, 250-foot-wide chasm on the edge of the campus of Penn State University Behrend Campus that is estimated to have been formed more than 11,000 years ago at the end of the last ice age, as melting water formed a meandering path to Lake Erie. Wintergreen Gorge Trail is a 2.3-mile out-and-back trail that travels along Fourmile Creek in the gorge for the first half mile and then up through the woods for the second half mile before summitting at a picturesque overlook, known locally as the Devil’s Backbone. Though the trail is not blazed, it’s easy to follow the wide, main path. There are no restrooms, but there is interpretive signage and plenty of parking at the Cooper Road entrance. See a map of Wintergreen Gorge Trail here.

Trail Talk
A few terms that are helpful to know when choosing a trail:

Blaze: A colored mark, usually painted or nailed to a tree, to help you follow the trail.
Easy/Moderate/Strenuous: Trail descriptions that refer to difficulty. Easy is usually flat and grassy. Moderate includes some hills, roots, and rocks. Strenuous means serious uphills, rough terrain, and sometimes climbing.
Loop: The trail starts and finishes in the same spot.
Out-and-back: Trail goes to a certain point, and then you turn around and take the same trail back to the start.
Point-to-Point: The trail starts at one point and ends at another.

Nine Must-Try Fall Bites and Beverages in Erie, PA

Fall in Erie is full of flavor, and local chefs, bakers, and brewers are serving up the season in the most delicious ways. From cozy pumpkin curries to spiced cocktails and apple wines, these bites and beverages showcase the best of Erie’s fall food scene. Here’s what’s new this season.

Bites

Bar Ronin
Roasted Savory Pumpkin Curry (V/GF/DF)
A feast for the eyes and the tastebuds, this curry is filled with roasted fall vegetables, miso pepitas, and warm koshihikari rice, a short-grain rice developed in Japan after World War II, known for its sticky, chewy, and sweet taste.
Flip Café
Franken-toast
Known for their creative breakfast entrees, Flip Café is leaning into spooky season with Franken-toast. This brioche French toast is topped with a pistachio fluff, puff pastry and drizzled with ginger-honey syrup.
Tipsy Bean Café
Pumpkin Maple Glaze Cookie (V/GF)
The epitome of fall flavors is this soft, spiced pumpkin cookie drizzled with a sweet maple glaze that melts into every bite. It pairs perfectly with their Count Dracula Cayenne Mocha, a classic, rich mocha topped with a sprinkling of cayenne spice for a spooky twist.
Lucky Louie’s Beer & Wieners
Bratty German Kid
Lucky Louie’s always brings the flavor. Their seasonal dog, Bratty German Kid, is made with Boski Cheesy Brat, topped with kraut, Swiss cheese, spicy brown mustard, and bacon all piled high on a pretzel bun.

Beverages

Jade Winery
Apple Wine
Enjoy the sweetness of a Gala, the crispness of an Empire, and the tartness of a Cortland apple in Jade’s special apple wine blend made with locally grown apples from Burch Farms. Pair with sharp cheddar, blue cheese, or apple pie. Don’t forget to serve chilled.
Werner Books & Coffee
Maple Cold Brew with Pumpkin Cold Foam and Cinnamon
Maple, pumpkin, and cinnamon – the ultimate fall trio. This drink is best enjoyed once settled into a quiet nook of the bookstore. Be sure to browse the shelves featuring Erie’s own authors, which makes for the perfect companion to your seasonal sip.
The Brewerie at Union Station
Apparition Amber
Named after a ghost who has taken up residency at The Brewerie, this beer packs a spicy punch. Filled with hot chilis and fresh jalapenos, try this beer if you dare.
Voodoo Brewery Company – Erie Pub
Classic Cinnamon Toast Crunch Old Fashioned
Voodoo uses their own Spirits Bourbon Whiskey that has been infused with copious amounts of Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal, creating a mouthwatering fusion of smooth whiskey with bold cinnamon, sugar, and graham cracker flavors. Want to take it up a notch? Try it smoked with cinnamon wood chips for an aromatic finish.
Before the Barrel Distillery
Salted Caramel Pecan
Made in small batches, the Salted Caramel Pecan Moonshine is a number one seller. The first sip is a strong caramel flavor followed by a butter pecan finish. Sip this on its own or mixed with apple cider.