Pocono Mountains: 1st Time Visitor Guide
Tucked away in northeastern Pennsylvania, the Pocono Mountains offer a scenic escape filled with forested peaks, cascading waterfalls, charming small towns, and adventures year round. Whether you’re planning a summer lake getaway, a fall foliage road trip, or a cozy winter retreat, the Poconos deliver natural beauty and outdoor fun for first-time visitors and returning travelers alike.
Overview
The Pocono Mountains span over 2,400 square miles and are divided into four regions: Lake Region, Upper Delaware River Region, Delaware River Valley, and Mountain Region. Known for their rich woodlands, 150 lakes, and a range of outdoor recreation, the Poconos are a popular destination for everything from hiking and skiing to spa retreats and waterfall chasing. Families, couples, solo travelers, and adventurers all find something here, whether it’s kayaking the Delaware River, hiking through state parks, or enjoying a relaxing cabin stay in the woods.
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How to Get There
- By Car: The most convenient way to explore the Poconos is by car. From New York City or Philadelphia, it’s a 2–2.5-hour drive.
- By Bus: Martz Trailways and Greyhound offer service from NYC and Philly to key towns like Stroudsburg or Mount Pocono.
- By Train: The Lackawanna Cut-Off Restoration Project is aiming to reestablish rail service in the future, but there’s no direct passenger train currently.
- Closest Airports: Lehigh Valley International Airport (ABE) and Wilkes-Barre/Scranton International Airport (AVP) are both within an hour’s drive. Check flights
Best Times to Visit
- Spring (April–June): Wildflowers bloom and waterfalls surge. Ideal for hiking.
- Summer (July–August): Perfect for lake activities, ziplining, and river tubing.
- Fall (late September–October): Peak fall foliage makes for a magical experience.
- Winter (December–March): Great for skiing, snowboarding, snow tubing, and indoor waterparks.
10 Best Things to Do
- Visit Bushkill Falls – Known as the “Niagara of Pennsylvania,” with 8 stunning waterfalls.
- Kayak the Delaware River – Enjoy a scenic paddle with peaceful mountain views.
- Explore Jim Thorpe – A historic town with shops, museums, and train rides.
- Ride the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway – Ideal for fall foliage or a relaxing afternoon.
- Relax at a Spa Resort – Try the luxurious Skytop Lodge or The Lodge at Woodloch.
- Zipline through the trees – Adventure parks like Camelback and Pocono TreeVentures offer adrenaline fun.
- Go horseback riding – Many stables offer guided rides through wooded trails.
- Tour local wineries and breweries – Pocono Wine Trail is a favorite.
- Spend a day at Lake Wallenpaupack – Boating, fishing, and lakeside relaxation await.
- Ski and snowboard – In winter, visit Camelback, Jack Frost, or Shawnee Mountain.
- Bonus: Top visitor recommendations
Best Hikes (Beginner–Advanced)
Beginner:
- Raymondskill Falls Trail – A short, easy walk to Pennsylvania’s tallest waterfall.
- Bushkill Falls Trails – Varied difficulty, but plenty of beginner-friendly loops.
Intermediate:
- Lehigh Gorge Trail: Follows the Lehigh River; ideal for biking and hiking.
- Big Pocono State Park Trails: Wide-ranging views and moderate loops.
Advanced: Mount Tammany via Red Dot and Blue Dot Trail – A steep, rewarding hike with sweeping Delaware Water Gap views.
Hidden Gems
- Hawk Falls at Hickory Run State Park – A tucked-away waterfall hike that’s rarely crowded.
- Austin T. Blakeslee Natural Area – Peaceful, quiet trails through rhododendron forests.
- Tobyhanna State Park – Less touristy, great for birdwatching and kayaking.
- Lacawac Sanctuary – A natural research station with a pristine glacial lake and ecological trails.
- The Glen Onoko Falls Trail (currently closed but worth checking for updates), a once-beloved rugged hike with breathtaking waterfalls.
1–5 Day Sample Itinerary
Day 1:
- Arrive in Jim Thorpe
- Explore downtown shops and museums
- Ride the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway
- Overnight in a historic inn
Day 2:
- Hike Glen Onoko or Lehigh Gorge Trail
- Lunch at a local brewery
- Zipline at Camelback Mountain Adventures
- Relax at your resort or cabin
Day 3:
- Visit Bushkill Falls
- Afternoon kayaking on Delaware River
- Scenic drive along Route 209
- Stargazing at your cabin or lakeside
Day 4:
- Spend the day at Lake Wallenpaupack
- Enjoy fishing, paddleboarding, or a boat tour
- Dinner with lake views
Day 5:
- Morning walk at Promised Land State Park
- Grab coffee in Stroudsburg
- Begin return journey home
Packing List
- My Amazon gear list
- Comfortable hiking shoes
- Reusable water bottle
- Weather-appropriate layers (it gets cool in the evenings)
- Bug spray and sunscreen
- Rain jacket or poncho
- Backpack for day hikes
- Camera or smartphone for scenic views
- Swimsuit (for lakes or waterparks)
- Binoculars (for birdwatching and wildlife)
- Trail map or offline GPS
Where to Stay
Similar Areas:
Things to Know Before You Go
- Cell service is spotty in some mountain areas, download maps offline.
- Parking may require permits at popular parks and trailheads.
- Wildlife sightings are common, especially deer and black bears. Keep food secured.
- Many state parks are dog-friendly, but leashes are required.
- Fall weekends book quickly, so reserve lodging well in advance.
Final Thoughts
The Pocono Mountains are a playground for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those in need of a peaceful retreat. Whether you’re gazing at waterfalls, hiking scenic trails, or just unplugging by a lakeside fire pit, the Poconos offer a soul-refreshing experience just a short drive from major cities. A first visit here often leads to many more.
