With spring officially beginning to bloom this weekend, the Pocono Mountains has an abundance of outdoor experiences to choose from to soak in the new season and enjoy the warmer temperatures.
From tranquil to exhilarating, check out eight things to do in the Poconos this spring.
1. Biking
The two national parks and nine state parks in the Poconos total over 100,000 acres, providing plenty of biking trails to cycle in the spring months. Discover a variety of terrains, scenic views and distances: wind alongside the Lehigh River on the paved path in Lehigh Gorge State Park or take a spin skirting the shores of a pristine lake at Prompton State Park.
With bike rentals and shuttle services available throughout the Pocono Mountains, biking is easily accessible. Edge of the Woods Outfitters offers bike rentals throughout the beautiful Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area.
Adventure Center at Whitewater…
Offering breathtaking views of the river gorge, its cascading tributaries, and whitewater boaters "playing" the rapids. Visit the Adventure Center at Whitewater Challengers and schedule a ride on an…
Blue Mountain Resort Downhill…
Blue Mountain Resort's Bike Park offers 26 trails of lift-serviced downhill mountain biking. There's something for everyone - from hardcore riders looking to improve their skills to beginners looking…
D&L Trail - Biking
Part of the Delaware & Lehigh National Heritage Corridor, the D&L Trail is a bike-friendly recreational trail that runs through Carbon County in the Pocono Mountains. Thirty seven of the D&L Trail's…
Delaware State Forest - Biking
Mountain bikes may be used on all roads and most trails in the Delaware State Forest. Natural areas and the Thunder Swamp Trail system are closed to this activity. The degree of riding difficulty can…
Delaware Water Gap National…
Updated: Limited services available. Visit responsibly - Most park trails and boat launches are open, but some restrooms are closed and services are limited. Law enforcement is on duty. All park…
Edge of the Woods Outfitters
Edge of the Woods Outfitters had the first bike rental program in the area. Rent mountain bikes on the scenic Joseph McDade Trail, located in the National Park and just minutes away from the shop. The…
Gouldsboro State Park - Biking
Explore up to eight miles by bike. In Gouldsboro State Park, the Old 611 trail begins in the day use area. This flat, wide trail runs along the western side of the park, paralleling I-380. Part of the…
Jim Thorpe River Adventures -…
Lots of public land, flat trails, hilly trails, downhill trails - you name it and you can ride your bike on it right from town. Whether you're a beginner, intermediate, advanced, or expert you'll find…
Lehigh Gorge State Park - Biking
Bike on the Lehigh Gorge Trail, which follows 26 miles of the D&L Trail, the foundation of the 165-mile Delaware and Lehigh National Heritage Corridor within the park. Wide tires are recommended.…
Mauch Chunk Lake Park - Biking
Biking trails include the Switchback Trail, Shoreline Trail, Fireline Trail and the Woods Trail.
Pocono Biking
An unforgettably unique rails-to-trails pedaling adventure. Beginner to expert riders are welcome at Pocono Biking. Bring your bike or rent a Trek bike. The trail is unique, as it was once home to a…
Promised Land State Park - Biking
Riders share the road on the 6.5-mile paved road around Promised Land Lake, Lower Lake Road and in the park’s six campgrounds. Children age 12 and under MUST wear a helmet, and others are encouraged…
Prompton State Park - Biking
All 26 miles of the park's hiking trails are open to mountain biking. The hiking trails are a mix of rocky paths and smooth forest floor. The northernmost 1.2-mile of East Shore Trail is old, smooth…
Switchback Railroad Trail -…
It traces the route of the historic Switchback Gravity Railroad Trail, an 18-mile round trip through countryside once called "The Switzerland of America." It offers enjoyable outings for walkers,…
Tobyhanna State Park - Biking
Bring your bike! In Tobyhanna State Park, Lakeside Trail is an improved surface trail that circles the lake and borders the Black Bear and Bender Swamps Natural Area. Great views await!
Whitewater Rafting Adventures -…
The Rail Trail runs through the Lehigh Gorge State Park in the Pocono Mountains offering breathtaking scenery and an easy riding surface. You can choose a 26 or 15-mile self-guided tour of amazing…
Another way to enjoy national and state parks in the Poconos is to bird watch. The Pocono Environmental Education Center welcomes migrating bird species through tours and events during the spring.
The Dorflinger-Suydam Wildlife Sanctuary offers peaceful trails for observing wildlife while preserving natural habitats. Find more hands-on experiences including public programs and hikes through the Kettle Creek Environmental Education Center.
Delaware Water Gap National…
The park's diverse landscapes, altered by centuries of human activity, provide habitat for a variety of birds for both breeding and migrating. More than 260 species have been identified in the…
Dorflinger-Suydam Wildlife…
The Dorflinger-Suydam Wildlife Sanctuary offers nature trails for observing indigenous wildlife and waterfowl. View health and safety protocols.
Kettle Creek Environmental…
Relax while bird watching at Kettle Creek Environmental Education Center, which provides hands-on and interpretive hikes and programs. Both public and private tours are available. The Center has a…
Pocono Environmental Education…
At the Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC), every season is the perfect time to enjoy viewing a wide variety of birds: warblers, raptors, backyard birds, and more. Spring and fall migrations…
Upper Delaware Scenic &…
These awe inspiring birds are now nesting in the area and are often seen hunting near areas of open water in the mostly frozen Delaware during the winter.
3. Hiking
Over 126 hiking trails cover 261 miles of Pocono Mountains beauty. Hike throughout the area and discover trails leading to the tallest peaks and the lowest valleys. Find a quiet walk through nature preserves and education centers or share the trails with bikers at retreats like Mauch Chunk Lake Park.
With trails ranging in difficulty, there’s a hike for everyone. And who knows, you may even stumble across a waterfall. There are 19 waterfalls scattered all through the region’s hiking trails, including Bushkill Falls, "The Niagara of Pennsylvania".
Austin T. Blakeslee Natural Area…
Located just off Route 115 near Blakeslee, the Austin T. Blakeslee Natural Area is a 130-acre preserve frequently visited for hiking, fishing, waterfall viewing and picnicking. In addition to its…
Beltzville State Park - Hiking
Beltzville State Park features 15 miles of scenic hiking trails that vary in distance and difficulty. Trails follow wooded paths, old roads, and grassy walkways through forests, valleys, and fields.…
Browns Hill Preserve - Hiking
Browns Hill Preserve is an easy trail on old woods road. The preserve sits high on the ridge that separates Brodhead Creek and Cranberry Creek in a neighborhood of tidy homes. There are no established…
Bushkill Falls - Hiking
As you hike the trails or walk the grounds of Bushkill Falls, you'll have a first-hand opportunity to see the wonders of nature close at hand. Trails vary in distance and difficulty. It's a short…
Cherry Valley National Wildlife…
Once a golf course, Cherry Valley National Wildlife Refuge near Stroudsburg is now a haven for birds, butterflies, bees and other pollinators. The 193-acre preserve has kept the former cart-paths to…
Cresco Heights - Hiking
The trail is out and back, about three miles. It is moderately difficult with long uphill stretches and often rocky underfoot. Take in a 180-degree view of the scenic Delaware River, a sliver of New…
D&L Trail - Hiking
The Delaware & Lehigh (D&L) National Heritage Corridor extends through the breathtaking Lehigh Gorge. Explorers can walk over 24 miles of uninterrupted rail-trail through Lehigh Gorge State Park on…
Delaware Water Gap National…
Updated: Limited services available. Visit responsibly - Most park trails and boat launches are open, but some restrooms are closed and services are limited. Law enforcement is on duty. All park…
Edge of the Woods Outfitters -…
Located in Delaware Water Gap, just two blocks from the Appalachian Trail and only minutes from the Delaware River and Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area. The retail store provides free…
ForEvergreen Nature Preserve -…
One-mile loop trail is smooth gravel with very slight inclines. Mowed, grassy trails crisscross the central meadow. Walk among tall white pines and along the bank of the creek and connect with nature.…
Hickory Run State Park - Hiking
Hickory Run Sate Park encompasses 44 miles of scenic hiking trails. Trails range in distance and terrain, leading through areas rich in historic and visual interest. Thick foliage, waterfalls, rocky…
Ice Lake - Hiking
The trail is centered around Ice Lake, which was originally built for ice making. Like general stores throughout the Poconos, the nearby Seguine store made ice for its own use and for sale to local…
Kettle Creek Environmental…
Enjoy a hike at the Kettle Creek Environmental Education Center which provides hands-on and interpretive hikes and programs. Both public and private and tours are available. Over 2.5 miles of…
Kidder Hike & Bike Trail - Hiking
Opened in the fall of 2019, the Kidder Hike & Bike Trail runs along Lake Harmony Road from Big Boulder Drive to downtown Lake Harmony, providing a safe and scenic way to travel to the shopping area.…
Kurmes Paradise Creek Nature…
The northern section, features Devils Hole Road a 1.9 mile lightly trafficked loop trail that features hemlock, rhododendron, mountain laurel and vernal pools. This hike is good for all skill levels.…
Lacawac Sanctuary - Hiking
Lacawac Sanctuary is a 550-acre nature and environmental education center located on the shore of Lake Wallenpaupack offering over nine miles of trails for hiking from easy to difficult. Enjoy a rich…
Lehigh Gorge State Park - Hiking
The Lehigh Gorge State Park encompasses 33 miles of scenic hiking trails. Trails vary in scenery, length and terrain. The 26-mile Lehigh Gorge Trail offers easy hiking along the Lehigh River, with…
Mauch Chunk Lake Park - Hiking
Mauch Chunk Lake Park is home to hiking trails like the Switchback Trail, Shoreline Trail, Fireline Trail and Woods Trail, which vary in length and terrain. Forests, wetlands and lake views are just…
Mount Minsi - Appalachian Trail -…
Head to the town of Delaware Water Gap to hop on the Appalachian Trail towards Mount Minsi. Choose from two routes for this challenging adventure - go rocky and wooded or take the fire road up. When…
Paradise-Price Preserve - Hiking
Paradise-Price Preserve located in Monroe County, straddles Paradise and Price townships. There are two entrances, about six miles apart. The preserve provides a very easy, wide and grassy stroll that…
4. Fishing
With 122 miles of stocked river and 11,285 acres of stocked lakes, you’ll wonder why you haven’t fished the Pocono Mountains sooner. Fishing requirements vary by location. Big Brown Fish and Pay Lakes do not require a fishing license, while state parks, like Promised Land State Park, require a license by PA Fish and Boat Commission laws.
Statewide trout fishing season begins April 3, 2021; enjoy free fishing without a license May 30, 2021 and July 4, 2021. Guided fishing trips are also available from outfitters like Ray's Charter Guide Service. Whether you're an avid angler or a beginner, trips can be customized to fit your experience, time and budget.
Big Brown Fish & Pay Lakes
Two ponds are stocked with trout (rainbow, brown, brook, and golden) and one pond is stocked with bass (largemouth and hybrid striped). There is no fishing license required. Pole rentals, bait,…
Paradise Trout Preserve
A park setting with two ponds that are stocked with healthy, farm-raised trout and bass, provides a great deal of fishing fun! The larger pond is stocked with trout (rainbow, brown, brook, golden, and…
Ray's Charter Guide Service
Whether you are a beginner fisherman looking for a new adventure or an experienced one seeking a great day of fishing on Lake Wallenpaupack, Ray can provide a chartered trip that everyone can enjoy.
Shawnee River Trips
Enjoy a distinctive guided drift boat trip with a licensed fishing guide on this legendary big river. “The Big D” Delaware River is famous for its seasonal runs of shad and striped bass, along with…
Troll On Guide Service
Troll On Guide Service specializes in striped bass fishing excursions on Lake Wallenpaupack and Beltzville Lake in the Pocono Mountains. With top-of-the-line electronics and gear, and over 15 years of…
5. Touring
How about a little off-road adventure? Rent an all-terrain vehicle or bring your own to Alvin's Offroad Playground. Pocono Outdoor Adventure Tours is open year-round and provides utility-terrain vehicles tuned up and ready for some spring action.
You can also tour the Poconos on three-wheels with Pocono Slingshot Rentals! Starting in mid May, blaze your own trail throughout the region, or take a pre-mapped, suggested route with gorgeous views. Want a laid-back, guided experience? Enjoy a scenic tour from a sidecar with Jim Thorpe Sidecar Tourz.
Alvin's Offroad Playground
Located in Long Pond, Pennsylvania and nestled among the beautiful Pocono Mountains, Alvin's Offroad Playground is a fun filled ATV, UTV, and dirt bike park with off-road trails for all skill levels!…
Camelback Mountain Adventures
Open seasonally starting in April, Camelback's newly upgraded Mountain Segway route takes you into Big Pocono State Park, where you'll see magnificent views at a safe distance above some impressive…
Jim Thorpe Sidecar Tourz
Jim Thorpe Sidecar Tourz is a member of the United Sidecar Association and the Antique Motorcycle Club of America. Guided excursions range from 90 minutes to four hours. Choose your route from seven…
Pocono ATVs at Memorytown
There's nothing more exhilarating than commanding a full-sized 4x4 ATV through the beautifully wooded trails and fields at Memorytown. The operators of Pocono ATVs at Memorytown will provide you with…
Pocono Organics
Take a behind-the-scenes, 30-minute guided walking tour of 38,000 square feet of greenhouses and learn about this state-of-the-art facility. Learn why soil health is their top priority, discover the…
Pocono Outdoor Adventure Tours
Whether you are traveling to the Poconos for a family vacation in one of the area's world-class resort properties or you are on a day trip to the Poconos, the team at Pocono Outdoor Adventure Tours is…
Pocono Slingshot Rentals
Let Pocono Slingshot Rentals be your go-to destination to truly experience your time in the Pocono Mountains. With the beautiful natural scenery, historic towns and over 100 lakes, there is no better…
6. Golfing
It wouldn’t be spring without golf. Tee off at a wide variety of greens that have seen professional play over the years. With the season beginning in April at places like Country Club of the Poconos, golfers can play on a multitude of courses to suit any preference.
The Pocono Mountains boasts many legendary golf courses, like The Shawnee Inn and Golf Resort which was completed in 1910 and features A.W. Tillinghast’s first-ever design. You'll also find nationally recognized courses like The Country Club at Woodloch Springs. No matter the history, each course shares the iconic beauty and breathtaking landscape views of the region. Take advantage of the 2021 Golf-A-Round Card to lock in savings and be sure to call ahead to your destination to confirm trip details.
The Country Club at Woodloch…
Updated: Currently open. View health and safety protocols. Woodloch’s spectacular, 18-hole, championship, par-72 golf course winds its way over 6,579 yards of fern-carpeted forest, lush wetlands and…
Country Club of the Poconos…
Updated: Currently open. Call for health and safety protocols. Owned by Middle Smithfield Township and designed by renowned architect Jim Fazio, Country Club of the Poconos offers great golfing…
Hideaway Hills Golf Club
Updated: Currently open. Call for health and safety protocols. Hideaway Hills features four lakes, spectacular elevation changes and a signature island green. The bent grass tees, greens and fairways…
Jack Frost National Golf Club
Updated: Currently open. View health and safety protocols. Experience the forgiving fairways and undulating greens at this 7,200-yard golf paradise. Jack Frost National follows the natural contours of…
Mount Airy Golf Club
Updated: Currently open. View health and safety protocols. Golf Course Architect Hal Purdy reinterpreted famous holes from such dynamic courses as Pebble Beach Golf Links, Oakland Hills CC, Merion GC,…
Pocono Hills Golf Course
Updated: Opening April 17, 2021. View health and safety protocols. Choose daily golf play or packages that include meals and accommodations in a luxurious villa. Golf shop, practice hole and…
Pocono Manor Golf Course
Updated: Currently open. Call for health and safety protocols. Surrounded by the beauty of the Poconos, the East Course offers players unique challenges, water hazards and scenic mountain views.…
The Shawnee Inn and Golf Resort -…
Updated: Currently open. View health and safety protocols. Rich in the history of golf, Shawnee has been the host of the 1938 PGA Championship, 1967 NCAA Championship and many memorable events. The…
Skytop Lodge Golf Course
Updated: Currently open. View health and safety protocols. Golf Digest's “Best Places to Play” rated Skytop’s course at 4.5 stars. It was awarded 4 out of 5 by Golf Advisor. The tees, greens and…
Split Rock Golf Club
Updated: Currently open. View health and safety protocols. Split Rock Golf Club is a 27-hole resort course with much to offer. It's majestic 585-yard 11th hole claims one of the most spectacular views…
Saddle up for some horseback riding! Bushkill Riding Stables accommodates both families and single riders looking to reconnect with nature.
Whether looking to ride in a small group or alone with your horse, no experience is required; Mountain Creek Riding Stable loves beginners. At Daisy Field Farm, you can also try hay wagon, carriage and pony rides. Please call ahead to your destination for more information.
Bushkill Riding Stables
Open year-round, Bushkill Riding Stables offers trail rides where you can reconnect with nature and an earlier time. You’ll learn the basics, meet your horse, and set off into the peaceful woods…
Daisy Field Farm
Daisy Field Farm is a picturesque horse farm offering year-round trail rides, pony rides, carriage, wagon, and sleigh rides. Specializing in families and small groups, Daisy Field welcomes guests to…
Mountain Creek Riding Stable
Mountain Creek Riding Stable is a beginner-friendly, no-experience-required horseback riding stable just outside of Mount Pocono. Mountain Creek offers group trail rides as well as private trail…
Pocono Mountains' rivers are flowing just in time to start off the whitewater rafting season. Pocono Whitewater Adventures opens May 1, 2021. Our facilitators like Adventure Center at Whitewater Challengers offer multi-day trips in addition to special rafting rates throughout the season.
Check out upcoming events and 2021 dam release dates posted on outfitter's websites like Whitewater Rafting Adventures. Many whitewater rafting retailers offer biking and hiking activities as well. Interested in something a little slower? Enjoy guided trips down the river or rafting and tubing at your leisure. Call the outfitters ahead of time to confirm your trip details!
Adventure Center at Whitewater…
The Adventure Center at Whitewater Challengers offers several exciting rafting options on the Lehigh River. The premier whitewater rafting trip features active class I, II, and III rapids for ages 9+.…
Jim Thorpe River Adventures
Head out on the Lehigh with Jim Thorpe River Adventures and enjoy hours of exciting whitewater rafting. No matter your experience level, the experts at Jim Thorpe River Adventures will get pumped and…
Kittatinny Canoes
Whitewater rafting with Kittatinny is a highlight of any family vacation! Rafting on the Delaware River is ideal for novices and families, and no experience is necessary. Kittatinny rafts hold up to…
Lander's River Trips
Located on the Delaware River, Lander's River Trips has been providing water adventures since 1955. Raft with up to five friends and family members on a 2.5 to five-hour adventure! Beginners, families…
Pocono Whitewater Adventures
The Lehigh River is the best whitewater in the tri-state area! Pocono Whitewater offers mild whitewater for families and children and crazy whitewater for the adrenaline seekers! Experience dam…
Whitewater Rafting Adventures
Whitewater Rafting Adventures is a family owned and operated business that has been offering outdoor adventures for over 40 years. Choose from an exhilarating Class III Whitewater rafting, EZ…
Whatever your spring adventure, don't forget to call ahead to your destination. Properties can best assist with questions about what services they are currently offering.
Be sure to keep up with events and special offers for more seasonal family fun, and browse our area's beautiful accommodations to plan a longer stay to give yourself more time to savor the Pocono Mountains this spring.
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Spring in the Pocono Mountains
Spring awakening inspires outdoor activity in the Pocono Mountains.
Save 15% on Resort Suites &…
Includes: Plan your next getaway with Extra Holidays and save! Stretch out and relax in spacious resort suites while experiencing all the comforts of home. Most suites are equipped with a full…
Honoring Our Military
Includes: To show appreciation for your service, The Settlers Inn offers to Active and Retired Military personnel a special discount to stay in Hawley, PA. Available: Seven days a week Cost: Please…
Honoring Our Military
Includes: To show appreciation for your service, Ledges Hotel offers to Active and Retired Military personnel a special discount to stay in Hawley, PA. Available: Seven days a week Cost: Call the…
Honoring Our Military
Includes: To show appreciation for your service, Silver Birches Resort offers to Active and Retired Military personnel a special discount when staying in Hawley, PA. Available: Seven days a week Cost:…
Kalahari Salutes
Includes: Kalahari Salutes with savings up to 20% off. This special offer for military and service personnel includes an overnight stay in a beautifully appointed Double Queen Sofa room for up to four…
Bed and Breakfast
Includes: Stay overnight at the Shawnee Inn and Golf Resort and enjoy complimentary breakfast the next morning. Available: Seven days a week Cost: Rates start at $76/person midweek and $103/person on…
AAA/AARP Membership Discount
Includes: Mountain Laurel Resort offers discounted rates to members of AAA and AARP. Available: Seven days a week Cost: AAA/AARP members save 10% on the current rate, not including taxes. Offer…
Government Discount
Includes: Special discounted rates are available at Mountain Laurel Resort for all federal, state, and local government employees and contractors. Available: Seven days a week Cost: Government…
Military Appreciation Discount
Includes: Thank you for your service! Active military members enjoy discounted rates at Mountain Laurel Resort. Available: Seven days a week Cost: Military members save 10%. Valid military ID required…
Hello Spring
Includes: 5,500 acres of endless adventures are just waiting for you to arrive! Fun is in bloom! From hiking, biking and the unforgettable TreeTop Adventure Course to nightly campfires and marshmallow…
Wonderful Waterfall Tour
Includes: The spring months are a favorite time to visit the nearby waterfalls in Pike County. Snowmelt and spring rains create full streams and lush cascades. You’ll love this combination driving and…
Discover Your Next Destination
Includes: Discover savings of 20% on resort stays through June! You don’t have to go far for your dream vacation. Whether you prefer to pack your bags and drive or fly to your next destination, this…
Create Your Own Getaway
Includes: Choose one of the following add-ons to create your own getaway: house wine; Champagne; breakfast basket; day pass to the indoor pool and fitness center at Woodloch Springs; floral…
Book and Save Up to 45 Percent
Includes: You deserve a break, so why not consider some dates now until the end of the year and you might strike some serious savings up to 45%! Plan a getaway, work out what dates are good for you,…
Spring Sale
Includes: Explore the great outdoors surrounding Split Rock Resort with spectacular views and photo ops that make hiking tops here in the Poconos. What better way to celebrate the change of seasons…
April Showers of Savings
Includes: April showers and spring snow melt bring our local waterfalls to life. Book a stay in April with a Monday check-in and receive $75 off a two-night stay or $150 off a three-night stay. Your…
Stay Three Get the Fourth Free
Includes: Offer includes two meals daily, accommodations, resort amenities, and nightly entertainment. three-meal plans are available. Available: Monday through Friday. Cost: Use promo code STAY4 to…
Business, Club, Scout Special
Includes: Businesses, scouts, clubs and other organizations receive a 15% discount on any nights reserved. Any site type! Available: Seven days a week Cost: Sites start at $36. Call for detailed…
Group Camping Special
Includes: Camping with friends? Save 15% when you book a multi-site. Available: Seven days week Cost: Reserve three or more sites in a group and get a 15% discount. Any site type except group area.…
RV Gas Saver Special
Includes: Reserve up to three consecutive weekends and leave your RV on site during the week. Available: Seven days a week Cost: Only pay for the nights you stay. Not valid during music festivals.