Why the Poconos Are The Perfect Vacation Destination For Every Season
Covering 2,400 miles of northeast Pennsylvania, the Pocono Mountains feature forest-covered mountains, winding rivers, and some of the largest waterfalls in the eastern U.S. Whether you're planning a summer vacation or a winter getaway, the region offers unique activities year-round. Keep reading to discover our favorite things to do in the Pocono Mountains for every season and the best places to stay in the Pocono Mountains.
Skiing & Snowboarding
The Pocono Mountains have over 185 slopes and trails, making it a popular spot for skiing and snowboarding. The season usually starts in late November or December and lasts until mid-March or early April, depending on the weather. Interested in hitting the slopes? Check out one of the following resorts?
Jack Frost and Big Boulder Mountains
Jack Frost and Big Boulder Mountains, located just a 20-minute drive apart, are both owned by Vail Resorts and provide an epic skiing and snowboarding experience. Each mountain offers a similar elevation and a range of trails suitable for all skill levels, from beginner to advanced. Big Boulder has seven lifts, and Jack Frost has nine, offering easy access to the slopes and plenty of runs to enjoy.
Sleigh Rides
There's nothing quite as idyllic as dashing through the snow in a horse-drawn sleigh. Enjoy this cozy winter wonderland activity at one of the following establishments.
Mountain Creek Stables
Mountain Creek Stables offers horse-drawn sleigh rides after the New Year when there are at least six inches of snow. These rides have no age limits and can accommodate up to 12 people. The sleigh ride takes visitors through historic Pocono Manor, offering views of snow-covered cottages.
Daisy Field Farm
Managed by Mike and Judy Mertz for over 35 years, Daisy Field Farm offers horse-drawn sleigh rides when weather permits. Sleigh rides are available by appointment for couples or groups, and visitors can also request a bonfire to enjoy with their ride.
Watersports
Just five minutes from Big Boulder Mountain, Lake Harmony is a two-and-a-half-mile-long glacial lake that offers a range of summer activities, including boating, water skiing, wakeboarding, kayaking, canoeing, and jet skiing. Interested in leveling up your wakeboarding or water skiing skills? Check out Lake Harmony Watersports.
Lake Harmony Watersports
Lake Harmony Watersports offers lessons and demonstrations for wakeboarding, water skiing, wake surfing, kneeboarding, tubing, kayaking, canoeing, and stand-up paddle boarding. Whether you're a seasoned athlete or a complete beginner, their skilled staff is dedicated to helping you master your watersport goals.
Waterfalls
Pennsylvania is home to hundreds of waterfalls, and some of the most stunning views are found in the Pocono area. These beautiful spots are accessible year-round, weather permitting. We recommend visiting the following waterfalls during your trip.
Lehigh Gorge State Park Waterfalls
Lehigh Gorge State Park, known for its steep-walled gorge and lush greenery, features two beautiful waterfalls near Jim Thorpe, PA. Just a short walk from the Rockport Access Area along the D&L Trail, you can find Buttermilk Falls, which drops 50 feet over rocky ledges. A little farther downstream, Luke's Falls is visible in spring, fall and winter when the surrounding foliage is less dense.
Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area Waterfalls
Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area is home to two of Pennsylvania's tallest waterfalls: Raymondskill Falls and Dingmans Falls. Raymondskill Falls, near Milford, features three massive drops and can be reached by a short, steep trail with two viewing areas. Dingmans Falls, with its 130-foot drop, is accessible via a boardwalk trail to a handicap-accessible viewing platform or a staircase leading to a bird’s-eye view. Along the way, don't miss Silverthread Falls, an 80-foot waterfall located near the park's entrance.
Breweries
Whether you've been out on the water or hitting the slopes, there's nothing better than enjoying a craft beer. From an ice-cold IPA to a hearty porter, quench your thirst at one of these Lake Harmony breweries.
Barley Creek Brewing Company
Barley Creek Brewing Company, founded by Eileen and Trip Ruvane in 1995, was the first microbrewery to open in the Pocono Mountains since Prohibition. Over the years, the brewery has crafted more than 100 styles of beer and expanded to include a small-batch distillery offering vodka, whiskey, rum, and other spirits. Barley Creek also offers a menu filled with pub favorites like burgers, smoked BBQ, and brick oven pizzas.
Pocono Brewery Company
Pocono Brewery Company is known for its craft beers and delicious food in a family-friendly setting. They offer a unique selection of beers, including the 570 Oatmeal Stout, Pale Ale with Hibiscus, and Wally Wilson India Pale Ale. Paired with their hand-tossed pizzas, Pocono Brewery Company is a great stop year-round.
The Best Vacation Rentals in the Poconos
The 100 Collection™ is proud to partner with Pocono Mountain Rentals for exceptional Poconos Vacation Rentals. This curated list of mountain homes is equipped with unique amenities like outdoor hot tubs, game rooms, and expansive decks, perfect for group gatherings. With spacious layouts and large windows, these homes provide a mountain escape while accommodating groups of up to 28 people.
