The Pocono Mountains, Pennsylvania

Defined by its lush forested peaks, tranquil lakes, and wooded valleys, the Pocono Mountains has long been the destination of choice for nature lovers, honeymooners, adventure seekers, vacationing families, and the all-around tree-huggers. This scenic region in Northeastern Pennsylvania overlooks both the Delaware River and Delaware Water Gap. Additionally it is bordered by Lake Wallenpaupack, Wyoming Valley and the Coal Region, and Lehigh Valley.

Historically, Poconos were part of the infamous ‘1737 agreement’ called The Walking Treaty between the Penn family (then proprietors of Pennsylvania) and the Delaware Indians, the former basically swindling the latter of almost 1,200 square miles of land. Today, it is a popular escape from the hustles and bustles of city life boasting of recreational facilities right in the heart of the mountains.

Things to Do in the Pocono Mountains

Just a few hours’ drive from many residential areas in surrounding cities, the Pocono Mountains offer an array of activities geared towards all types of individuals. Whether you prefer a more laid-back pursuits or an adrenaline pumping outdoor experience, you can be sure there’s always something to keep you busy. Best of all for the shopaholics, you will find a myriad of shopping destinations ranging from premium outlets to flea markets.

Explore Nature

Named after a native American word for “the stream that runs through two mountains”, there are literally endless adventure waiting for you at every turn as you navigate its numerous falls, rivers, gorges, ravines, lakes, and more. Be one with nature and explore the wilderness as you set up camp for the night and walk on scenic trails in the morning.

Biking and Kayaking

Get on a bike or a clear-bottom kayak and wander into uncharted territories. Shoot the rapids or conquer the canyons. Need a breather? There are rivers to swim and streams to wade in. How about some brook and brown trouts for lunch? The lakes and rivers abound in freshwater fishes such as bass, walleye, and trouts. If you’re more into history and culture, fret not, you’re in for a treat too!

During winter, the region turns into a winter wonderland where kids and kids at heart can play various winter sports while in the summer, soak up the sun from its gorgeous lakes and beaches.

Concerts and Arts

The region plays host to a lot of concerts and events and you can check these out at various performance places like The Mauch Chunk Opera House in Jim Thorpe or the F. M. Kirby Center for the Performing Arts in Wilkes-Barre.

If the weather is not ideal for some outdoor excursion, there are museums and historical attractions to visit. The Old Jail Museum, the No. 9 Coal Mine & Museum in Lansford, and Asa Packer Mansion, just to name a few, will surely pique your interest.

Dining

Afterwards, indulge in some gastronomic delight as the region impresses with restaurants specializing in local and international cuisines. As always, a pint of beer in one of the many pubs and grill is a perfect way to end the day.

Family Vacations in the Pocono Mountains

Holidaying in the Poconos presents the family with a multitude of bonding activities that run the gamut from zoos to amusement parks. The children will surely never forget the animal shows nor their interaction with an alligator or a snake. The adults meanwhile will have a field day trying all the rides in the amusement and theme parks. Featuring indoor and outdoor water parks, the region is indeed a big playground for the young and the young at heart.

Weddings in the Pocono Mountains

For nearly two centuries, the Poconos have always been a romantic destination. During the Second World War, soldiers bid farewell to their loved ones in the mountain with many returning after the war for a romantic interlude. Today, its many resorts and inns are popular wedding ceremony and reception venues. Indeed, what could be a more fitting backdrop than the regions’ panoramic views?

Whether you decide to get married inside an Art Deco building, up in the mountain, or by a serene lake, you will be spoilt for choice here. With exceptional facilities and extensive wedding packages, make your dream wedding a reality at the Pocono Mountains.

Seasonal Events in the Poconos

As a year round destination, there is no best or bad time to visit the Pocono Mountains. No matter what the season, there is always something exciting and fun to do. During the autumn season, it is best to check the annual foliage forecast if you wish to be there when color is at its peak. Blessed with more than a hundred indigenous flora, the mountains are ablaze with fiery colors during this time.

Fall

Enjoy the crisp, cool air while you go on a hike, bike rides, horseback riding, fishing or river tubing. Or perhaps, you want to play a round of golf or take a vineyard tour? If you’re hankering for more, you can embark on a scenic train ride through the Lehigh Gorge or get on a haunted hay ride for some spooky fun. The entire region really comes alive as it celebrates the season with food, music, and traditional festivals.

Winter

When the snow starts to fall, the Poconos Mountain looks like a page straight off a fairy tale book. Every winter, ski and snowboard enthusiasts flock the region to take advantage of deep, fresh snow. Besides skiing and snowboarding, you can also enjoy a multitude of winter activities like ice skating, dog sledding, ice fishing, snow tubing, and snow-moiling.

Spring

You know its spring when the flowers begin to bloom and the weather gets warm. The meadows and wooded forests seems to beckon for you to put on your hiking shoes. There are beautiful trails and state parks where you can go bird watching, biking, horseback riding, and camping.

For the more daring souls, conquer the rapids while whitewater rafting or tubing. Take on the beautiful spring view while aboard a kayak or canoe. Various festivals are also on full blast right about this time with fairs and beer fests marking the beloved season.

Summer

With thousands of acres of land, lakes, and streams, the Pocono Mountains become the ultimate playground during the summer. If you wish to see the splendor from above, go on an aerial adventure with skydiving, zip lining, or tree top rope courses. For adrenaline junkies, head over to the Pocono Raceway for your first Stock car racing experience. Or get wet and wild at various water parks both indoor and outdoor. Enjoy diverse musical events from live festivals to more intimate performances. Whatever you decide to do, make sure not to miss out on the quintessential summer activities like campfires and fireworks.

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Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains

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