The Park In Pennsylvania That Transforms Into An Ice Palace In The Winter
By Beth Price-Williams|Published February 16, 2023
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Beth Price-Williams
Author
A professional writer for more than two decades, Beth has lived in nearly a dozen states – from Missouri and Virginia to Connecticut and Vermont – and Toronto, Canada. In addition to traveling extensively in the U.S. and the U.K., she has a BA in Journalism from Point Park University (PA), a MA in Holocaust & Genocide Studies from Stockton University (NJ), and a Master of Professional Writing from Chatham University (PA). A writer and editor for Only In Your State since 2016, Beth grew up in and currently lives outside of Pittsburgh and when she’s not writing or hanging out with her bunnies, budgies, and chinchilla, she and her daughter are out chasing waterfalls.
Cabin fever often sets in for most of us at least one time during the winter. While the quiet of a fresh snowfall looks so peaceful as we curl up under a blanket, sometimes we just yearn for the longer, warmer, sunnier days of spring. Fortunately, we have quite a few fun ways to bust that cabin fever – or stop it in its tracks – including by visiting this park in Pennsylvania that’s simply spellbinding during the winter. You might even say it transforms into an ice palace of sorts.
Bundle up for a day of wintertime fun at McConnells Mill State Park in Portersville, a 2,546-acre natural oasis that draws visitors all year round.
McConnells Mill State Park is usually busiest during the summertime, but you really have to visit during the wintertime, too, especially after it snows.
Perhaps best known for its covered bridge, McConnells Mill State Park is also home to a grist mill of the same name. It's open for tours at select times.
The grist mill dates back to 1852. That's when the original building was built. Unfortunately, a fire destroyed it, and it was rebuilt in 1868.
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While the grist mill may not be open when you visit, make sure you still stop by the covered bridge. Stroll through it. It's also an idyllic backdrop for selfies and photos.
The sprawling state park offers a full menu of fun during the winter. If you've never gone kayaking on a cold winter day, for example, you're in for a one-of-a-kind adventure.
The park boasts nearly half a dozen trails, including the short but sweet half-mile Hells Hollow Trail. It leads to a breathtaking waterfall that's even more striking when frozen in mid-tumble.
Have you been to McConnells Mill State Park in Pennsylvania during the winter? Did it look like an ice palace? Share your experience in the comments. For a fast-paced winter adventure, make your way to this snow tubing park in Pennsylvania. It boasts 14 lanes.
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