Pocono Mountains: Best Things To See And Do

The Poconos — when people our age hear the name, many immediately think of the champagne tower whirlpools and heart-shaped tubs so heavily advertised in the ’70s as The Honeymoon Capital of the World. These experiences are still available, but the reality is there is so much more for the mature traveler to enjoy in the Pocono Mountains.

The Pocono Mountains are located in Northeastern Pennsylvania. The 2,400-square-mile area has long been a popular outdoor recreation area boasting hunting, fishing, skiing, and more. The Pocono Mountains are within a two-hour drive of multiple metropolitan areas such as New York and Philadelphia.

Many interstates and highways connect to the Pocono Region, including PA Route 903, known as the Highway to Adventure due to the numerous resorts and venues along this stretch of highway. Two airports serve the Poconos: the Lehigh Valley International Airport and Wilkes-Barre Scranton International Airport, which is just outside the region.

I enjoy the Pocono Mountain area because there is something for everyone. I’ve visited twice and I am planning a third trip in the fall. The mountains are beautiful. Some resorts are luxurious. Some are rustic. There are quaint bed and breakfasts, adult-only inns, big-name entertainment venues, and some great wineries and breweries. There is excellent hiking, fishing, skiing, leaf-peeping, waterparks, and the list goes on.

A family-friendly outdoor vacation region, there is much to do for the mature traveler. Here are some of my favorite things the 50+ traveler will enjoy in the Poconos.

1. Take A Hike

The Pocono Mountains region includes 261 miles of hiking trails. With two national and nine state parks, the Appalachian Trail, and Bushkill Falls, you can find a hiking trail for any skill level and you will enjoy breathtaking scenery as you hike.

As with any hiking adventure, be sure to wear appropriate hiking shoes to avoid injury.

Editor’s Note: For other hiking in the area, we recommend these nine hikes in Eastern Pennsylvania.