Fun in the Snow at Black Mo

By CONNER GOETZ
[email protected]

PHILIPSBURG — Despite sub-zero temperatures, more than cold-weather recreation seekers bundled up to take part in the annual Fun in the Snow at Black Mo event on Jan. 28.

The event, held on the frozen surface of Black Moshannon Lake in Black Moshannon State Park, offered ski and ice skate rentals and a packed program of winter events throughout the day.

Park rangers carved out patches of fresh, fallen snow to set up stations for ice bowling, sled riding, mini-golf, broom ball, ice skating and curling.

Later in the afternoon, rangers led winter wildlife walks through the park and educated attendees about how the different species of flora and fauna native to Black Moshannon State Park adapt to winter weather.

Park Manager Rachel Eckman gave an ice fishing demonstration, using a handheld electric auger to drill through the lake’s frozen crust, before showcasing tipup and jigging ice fishing rods.

Afterward, attendees were encouraged to take up a rod to try their hand at ice fishing.

According to Eckman, this was her first “official” Fun in the Snow at Black Mo event since the first iteration was postponed due to inclement weather, and last year’s run was disrupted by the pandemic.

“Today’s turnout is great,” said Eckman. “It’s nice seeing so many people come out.

Sarah Cunningham came with her husband and two daughters, and said she was looking forward to going skiing with her family.

“It’s been really fun so far,” she said.