The Poconos Mountains are a beautiful and diverse region located in northeastern Pennsylvania. The area is home to a variety of attractions, including stunning natural scenery, charming small towns, and world-class resorts. Travel and Leisure Magazine calls it one of the most beautiful mountain destinations in the United States. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway, an adventurous vacation, or a romantic escape, the Poconos Mountains have something to offer everyone. However, to enjoy a great vacation in this place, you need to plan ahead. If you are traveling from a faraway place, you need to arrange the transportation, accommodation, and perhaps the best places to visit to optimize your time in the Poconos. To help you plan your trip, here are nine of the top things to do in the Poconos Mountains in 2024:
1. Hiking
The Poconos Mountains are home to miles of hiking trails, ranging from easy nature walks to challenging ascents. Some of the most popular trails include the Appalachian Trail, the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Trail, and the Lehigh Gorge Trail. Regardless of your hiking experience or fitness levels, you can find a trail that suits your needs and interests.
2. Biking
The Poconos Mountains are also a great place to go biking. There are miles of bike paths and trails, suitable for both road biking and mountain biking. Some of the most popular biking trails include the Delaware and Lehigh National Heritage Corridor, the Lackawanna River Heritage Trail, and the Pocono Bike Trail. Whether you are a casual or serious cyclist, you can find a biking tour that fits your needs and interests.
3. Fishing
The Poconos Mountains are home to a variety of lakes, rivers, and streams, making it a great place to go fishing. Some of the most popular fishing spots include the Delaware River, the Lehigh River, and Lake Wallenpaupack. Anglers can catch a variety of fish, such as trout, bass, and walleye. You can also find plenty of places to rent fishing gear if you don’t have your own. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or just starting out, you can enjoy a day of fishing in the Poconos Mountains.
4. Camping
The Poconos Mountains are a great place to go camping. There are a variety of campgrounds, ranging from primitive campsites to RV parks. Some of the most popular campgrounds include the Hickory Run State Park Campground, the Promised Land State Park Campground, and the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area Campground. Whether you are looking for a rustic camping experience or a more comfortable stay, you can find a campground that suits your needs. Hiking to a backcountry campsite is also a great option for those who want to get away from it all.
5. Swimming
The Poconos Mountains are home to a variety of lakes, rivers, and streams, making it a great place to go swimming. Some of the most popular swimming spots include Lake Wallenpaupack, the Delaware River, and the Lehigh River. You can also find a variety of indoor and outdoor swimming pools in the area. Whether you are looking to cool off on a hot summer day or just relax and enjoy the scenery, you can find a great place to swim in the Poconos Mountains.
6. Boating
The Poconos Mountains are home to a variety of lakes, rivers, and streams, making it a great place to go boating. Some of the most popular boating spots include Lake Wallenpaupack, the Delaware River, and the Lehigh River. You can rent a variety of boats, such as kayaks, canoes, and motorboats. Whether you are looking for a leisurely paddle or a thrilling ride, you can find a great place to boat in the Poconos Mountains.
7. Skiing
The Poconos Mountains are a great place to go skiing. There are a variety of ski resorts, ranging from small family-friendly resorts to large resorts with a variety of terrain. Some of the most popular resorts include Camelback Mountain Resort, Blue Mountain Resort, and Jack Frost Big Boulder. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced skier, you can find a ski resort that suits your needs and interests.
8. Snowtubing
The Poconos Mountains are a great place to go snow tubing. There are a variety of tubing parks, ranging from small hills to large resorts with a variety of tubing lanes. Some of the most popular tubing parks include Camelback Mountain Resort, Blue Mountain Resort, and Jack Frost Big Boulder. Whether you are looking for a fun and relaxing activity or a thrilling ride, you can find a tubing park that suits your needs and interests.
9. Shopping
The Poconos Mountains are home to a variety of shops and boutiques, making it a great place to go shopping. Some of the most popular shopping destinations include the Crossings Premium Outlets, the Stroud Mall, and the Pocono Marketplace. You can find a variety of stores, ranging from national retailers to local boutiques. Whether you are looking to buy souvenirs, clothing, or gifts, you can find a great place to shop in the Poconos Mountains.
The Poconos Mountains offer a variety of cultural experiences, such as live music, theater, and art exhibits. The area is also home to a number of museums, including the Pocono Environmental Education Center, the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area Visitors Center, and the Wayne County Historical Society Museum. Whether you are interested in history, art, or music, you can find something to enjoy in the Poconos Mountains.
The Poconos Mountains are a great place to visit year-round, but the best months to visit are during the shoulder seasons (April-May and September-October). During these months, you can avoid the crowds and enjoy the mild weather. However, summer is the best time for swimming and other water activities, while winter is the best time for skiing and snow tubing. No matter what time of year you visit, you can find something to enjoy in the Poconos Mountains.
Getting to the Poconos Mountains is easy. The region is accessible by car, train, and plane. The nearest airport is Lehigh Valley International Airport (ABE), which is located about 30 miles from the Poconos Mountains. Once you arrive in the Poconos Mountains, you can get around by car or public transportation. There are a number of bus routes that connect the major towns and cities in the region.
The Poconos Mountains are home to a variety of restaurants, serving everything from classic American fare to international cuisine. Some of the most popular restaurants include The Frogtown Inn, The Settlers Inn, and The Water Gap Diner. Whether you are looking for a fine dining experience or a casual meal, you can find a great place to eat in the Poconos Mountains.
There are a variety of hotels and resorts in the Poconos Mountains, ranging from budget-friendly options to luxury resorts. Some of the most popular hotels and resorts include The Lodge at Mountain Springs Lake Resort, The Pocono Palace Resort, and The Shawnee Inn and Golf Resort. Whether you are looking for a romantic getaway or a family vacation, you can find a hotel or resort that suits your needs and interests.
The Poconos Mountains are a beautiful and diverse region with something to offer everyone. Whether you are looking for a relaxing getaway, an adventurous vacation, or a romantic escape, you can find something to enjoy in the Poconos Mountains. So start planning your trip today and experience all that the Poconos Mountains have to offer!