7 Amazing Outdoor Adventures, Poconos-Style

Nestled in Northeastern Pennsylvania, the Pocono Mountains’ cool waters and scenic forests have been a vacation destination since the 1800s and provide exciting opportunities for recreation year-round.

A quick two-hour drive from New York City and Philadelphia, the Poconos is a wonderful retreat for families. So grab your car keys and head out for these seven amazing outdoor adventures.

 Ziplining & Ropes Courses

Ready to step out of your comfort zone? Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or just want to try something new, you can experience the expansive beauty of the Pocono Mountains with the breathtaking birds-eye view of a ropes course or zipline.

Get your thrills and build connections with friends and family as you navigate the aerial obstacles of a ropes course high in the treetops. Camelback Mountain Adventures provides treetop adventures and 1000 foot long dual zip lines (perfect for racing!). Or if you’re ready to “go big”, check out Kittatinny Canoes’ 3000 foot zipline with a 36 story drop and majestic views of the Delaware River.

Fishing

With 150 lakes and 170 miles of rushing streams and rivers, the Pocono Mountains has incredible fishing for both seasoned anglers and total newbies. Visit scenic Lake Wallenpaupack for a day of picnicking and fishing for smallmouth bass and walleye. Or try your hand at fly fishing for trout in the Lackawaxen River or Upper Delaware River.

Don’t own your own tackle? No problem. Just head to one of the “pay lakes” like Big Brown Fish & Pay Lakes or get fly fishing instruction at an adventure resort like Pocono Manor. They’ll set you up with everything you need.

Horseback Riding

Saddle up for adventure! Immerse yourself in nature as you experience the Pocono Mountains on horseback. Ride through secluded forests, explore cascading waterfalls, and get an up-close view of local wildlife, such as deer, hawks, wild turkeys and other native species.

All levels of experience are welcome, making this a great activity for both family adventures and romantic getaways. Establishments like Daisy Field Farm provide guided trail rides, instructions for beginner riders and options for more experienced equestrians.

Hiking & Camping

Camping and hiking are the ultimate immersion experiences when it comes to spending time in nature. Whether you’re a survival enthusiast or an avid “glamper,” the Pocono Mountains has numerous options for tent camping, cabins and RV parking.

Visit Promised Land State Park for 3000 acres of camping and hiking trails, fishing, kayaking, and the interactive Masker Museum. Hike to Bushkill Falls, the “Niagara of Pennsylvania,” and survey its series of eight spectacular waterfalls. Check out Lehigh Gorge State Park and Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area for camping, hiking, rafting, fishing and so much more.

Whitewater Rafting

With crystal waters, spectacular canyon walls and rolling forested hills, riding a raft down the Lehigh or Delaware River lets you see a whole new side of the Pocono Mountains.

Enjoy a family-friendly, lazy river experience fun for kids of all ages. Or embrace the challenge of a rapid-filled, adrenaline-inducing splash fest. Great for families and groups, the knowledgeable and fun guides of Jim Thorpe River Adventures and Whitewater Challengers will keep you safe as you ride the rapids.

ATV Trail Rides

Plough through puddles, zoom over rugged terrain, and take in the incredible scenery with an open-air 360-degree view. An all-terrain vehicle tour on mountainous trails is a must for folks who love to be in the driver’s seat.

Great for family vacations and group celebrations, off-roading takes you to rugged areas you wouldn’t normally get to experience, and it gets you close to the area’s rich wildlife. Whatever your skill level, Pocono Outdoor Adventure Tours has got you covered, and beginners and families with younger kids will love Alvin’s Offroad Playground.

Jet Ski & Water Ski

If you’re interested in watersports but rafting and tubing don’t seem like enough, satisfy your need for speed via jet ski or water ski. Zoom across lakes at high speeds and experience the epitome of summertime fun.

Check out Pocono Action Sports for water skiing, boat rentals and more on Lake Wallenpaupack. Get your kicks and enjoy the amazing scenery.

Which amazing Poconos-style adventure are you excited to try?

For more fun things to do in the Pocono Mountains, visit www.PoconoMountains.com.