Punderson State Park (Winter)

Nestled in the heart of Ohio’s snow belt, Punderson State Park provides winter thrills for those who enjoy sledding, snowmobiling and cross-country skiing. Ice fishing, hiking and sitting by a cozy fire at the lodge are other cold weather options. Located east of Cleveland, Punderson is known for getting tons of snow when winter squalls roar in off Lake Erie and dump snowy treasures. Snowmobile trails, cross-county ski trails and a lighted luge-fast sled hill are great reasons to bundle up and get outside for some exciting exercise. Named for the area’s first permanent settler in 1808, Punderson State Park honors Lemuel Punderson. The ...

Nestled in the heart of Ohio’s snow belt, Punderson State Park provides winter thrills for those who enjoy sledding, snowmobiling and cross-country skiing. Ice fishing, hiking and sitting by a cozy fire at the lodge are other cold weather options. Located east of Cleveland, Punderson is known for getting tons of snow when winter squalls roar in off Lake Erie and dump snowy treasures. Snowmobile trails, cross-county ski trails and a lighted luge-fast sled hill are great reasons to bundle up and get outside for some exciting exercise. Named for the area’s first permanent settler in 1808, Punderson State Park honors Lemuel Punderson. The enterprising land agent built a small dam on the south side of the lake and opened a gristmill. Before long, the beautiful area surrounding Punderson Lake had become a popular resort for folks wanting to get away from industrial Cleveland. The largest and deepest “kettle” lake in Ohio, Punderson Lake was created when a large block of a massive ice sheet broke off during the glacial age about 12,000 years ago. The ice created a deep depression which filled with melt water and a lake was born. A winter sports chalet at Punderson is heated for a quick warm-up. For a wintry treat, watch the dogsleds on Mushers Trail or maybe do it yourself.

About the Expert

Jackie Sheckler Finch has written several guidebooks, including The Unofficial Guide to Campgrounds in the Great Lakes States, and four times she was named Travel Writer of the Year by Midwest Travel Writers Association.