Looking for a scenic mountain escape with lakes, waterfalls, charming towns, and four-season fun? Head to the Poconos! Nestled in northeastern Pennsylvania, the Pocono Mountains offer a perfect mix of outdoor adventures, cozy resorts, family activities, and romantic retreats. Whether you're hiking through forests, skiing down slopes, or relaxing by a lake, the Poconos deliver year-round excitement and relaxation.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit the Poconos is September through November for brilliant fall foliage, or December through March for snow sports. Summer (June–August) is also popular for lake activities, hiking, and family vacations.
How to Get There
- If you are traveling by car: The Poconos are easily accessed via I-80 and I-476, about 1.5–2 hours from New York City and Philadelphia.
- By Bus: Martz Trailways and Greyhound offer bus service from New York City and Philadelphia to major towns like Stroudsburg and Mount Pocono.
- By Train: Restoration of passenger rail service to the Poconos is underway, but currently no direct trains are available; driving remains the best option.
Where to Stay
- Skytop Lodge – Historic resort offering upscale accommodations, golf, spa services, and seasonal outdoor activities.
- Great Wolf Lodge Poconos – Family-friendly resort featuring a massive indoor water park, arcade, and kid-focused amenities.
- The Shawnee Inn and Golf Resort – Riverside resort with golf, spa, brewery tours, and proximity to the Delaware Water Gap recreation area.
Best Things to Do
Must-see if you are a first-time visitor:
- Ski and snowboard at Camelback Mountain Resort – Enjoy slopes in winter and an adventure park with zip lines and mountain coasters in summer.
- Visit Lake Wallenpaupack – Relax at one of Pennsylvania’s largest lakes offering boating, fishing, beaches, and lakeside dining.
- Tour Jim Thorpe – Wander the charming historic town with Victorian architecture, unique shops, scenic train rides, and museums.
Where to Eat
- Barley Creek Brewing Company – Popular brewpub near Camelback Mountain with craft beers, hearty American food, and a fun atmosphere.
- The Frogtown Chophouse – Upscale dining near Mount Pocono offering prime steaks, fresh seafood, and a cozy lodge ambiance.
- Moya – Creative New American cuisine served in a charming, artful space in downtown Jim Thorpe.
If you are interested in local events:
- Jim Thorpe Fall Foliage Festival (October) – Celebrate autumn with live music, crafts, food vendors, and spectacular fall colors.
- Pocono Garlic & Harvest Festival (September) – Taste garlicky delights, enjoy live music, and browse artisan vendors at Shawnee Mountain.
- SnowFest at Blue Mountain (February) – Family-friendly winter festival featuring snow tubing races, bonfires, and winter games.
If you are looking for unique day trips within 30–60 Minutes of Poconos towns:
- Lehigh Gorge State Park (30–45 min) – Bike or hike along the scenic Lehigh Gorge Trail and enjoy waterfalls and river views.
- Hickory Run State Park (30–40 min) – Visit Boulder Field, a unique natural phenomenon, and enjoy wooded hiking trails and lakes.
- Scranton (45–60 min) – Explore Steamtown National Historic Site, Lackawanna Coal Mine Tour, and “The Office” filming locations.
- Stroudsburg (20–30 min) – Enjoy lively Main Street shopping, art galleries, local breweries, and dining spots.
- Quiet Valley Living Historical Farm (30 min) – Step back in time with this living history museum offering tours of a 19th-century Pennsylvania German farmstead.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Why have the Poconos been a popular destination for generations?
- Beautiful Poconos forested mountain slopes, parks, wineries, clear lakes, and flower-covered valleys have attracted nature lovers, vacationing families, couples, and peace-seekers for generations.
- Where are the Poconos located?
- This picturesque Pennsylvania mountain region in northeastern Pennsylvania overlooks the Delaware River and Delaware Water Gap and is bordered by Lake Wallenpaupack and the Wyoming Valley.
Map:
Plan Your Trip