Pennsylvania - Happy Traveler Guide 2021
Pocono Mountains
2020-12-05 10:23:29
The crackle of a campfire, the roar of the river, the whir of a fishing reel—the Pocono Mountains offer a soundtrack of simpler times and richer experiences. Sun-drenched summer days offer endless chances for fishing, hiking, camping, or relaxing on the porch. Bring the whole family to enjoy sprawling resorts and larger-than-life water parks. Come fall and winter, rolling mountain terrain plays host to an autumn canopy of color and an adventure course for snow sports enthusiasts.
FAMILY FUN & HISTORIC SITES
The Pocono Mountains are filled with outdoor fun but be sure not to miss the region’s historic sites, hidden charms, and family attractions.
Dive into H20ooohh! Indoor Waterpark at Split Rock Resort in Lake Harmony to enjoy 53,000 square feet of familyfriendly water attractions year-round.
Next, climb aboard a restored railroad coach in Honesdale. The Stourbridge Line will take you on a scenic journey along the Lackawaxen River Valley.
Tour the Asa Packer Mansion Museum in Jim Thorpe. This National Historic Landmark was home to Asa Packer, a railroad entrepreneur and founder of Lehigh University. See the home’s original furnishings and learn about the Packer family’s history.
Stop in Weatherly and visit the Eckley Miners’ Village Museum. Discover 160- plus years of history and learn about the lives of immigrant coal miners and their families at this once company-owned mining town.
Catch a NASCAR or INDYCAR race at Pocono Raceway in Long Pond. On nonrace days, take a free guided tour of this unique track and learn why it’s known as “The Tricky Triangle.”
Climb your way to Pocono TreeVentures in East Stroudsburg. Open yearround, this aerial adventure features five courses of varying skill levels and includes zip lining, rope walks, wire walkways, and magnificent views of the Pocono Mountains.
From peaceful cottage getaways to 40 miles of hiking adventures, the 15,990- acre Hickory Run State Park in White Haven is a must-stop for any outdoor enthusiast. No matter the season, this park offers endless recreation opportunities, from trout fishing in the spring to cross-country skiing in the winter. In this area you’ll find streams, waterfalls, lakes, and an abundance of wildlife throughout.
Stretching across the southern foothills of the Pocono Mountains, Lehighton’s Beltzville State Park is the perfect outdoor playground. Go boating on the 949-acre Beltzville Lake or spend your time at the sand beach. The lake also acts as a rest stop for migrating waterfowl, so don’t forget your binoculars. Anglers love the Pohopoco Creek, a popular spot for trout fishing. Off the water, the park offers 15 miles of trails, mountain biking, hunting, and winter sports.
HIGHLIGHTS
Grey Towers National Historic Site, Milford Go on a guided mansion and grounds tour of the castle-like home of Gifford Pinchot, founder of the USDA Forest Service, or explore the picturesque trails and gardens on your own.
Bushkill Falls, Bushkill Take your pick from four hiking trails of varying lengths and difficulty, and get rewarded with views of this series of waterfalls, fondly referred to as the “Niagara of Pennsylvania.”
Lake Wallenpaupack Water activities are endless at this 5,700- acre freshwater lake, where fishing, boating, jet skiing, and swimming are all game. Stay in a lakefront cottage, resort, or campground for the ultimate escape.
Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area Miles of trails and beaches make up this designated Natural Recreation Area on the border of Pennsylvania and New Jersey. Kayak or raft the Delaware River, or go hiking for dramatic vistas.
Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway, Jim Thorpe Go on a narrated tour alongside the Lehigh River and into the spectacular Lehigh Gorge as you ride in a vintage passenger car pulled by a diesel engine.
Claws N Paws Wild Animal Park, Lake Ariel At this “wild” park, get close to more than 120 species of animals, hand feed parrots and giraffes, dig for dinosaur fossils, and make some fourlegged friends in the petting zoo.
Kalahari Resorts & Conventions, Pocono Manor This family-friendly resort comes loaded with activities all year long: the country’s largest indoor waterpark, laser tag, black light minigolf, escape rooms, mini bowling, a 7-D motion theater—and for parents, Spa Kalahari, offering relaxing facials, massages, and manicures.
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