Located within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, Pocono Environmental Education Center, also known as PEEC, has been a sanctuary for nature lovers and learners alike for over 53 years. Open year-round, PEEC offers something for everyone, from families looking to unplug to students seeking hands-on environmental education. "PEEC, is not only a place for students to learn, but a place for you and your families to unplug and reconnect with yourselves and with nature,” says PTN Host Deanna Fontanez, who recently explored all they have to offer.

PEEC's mission revolves around advancing environmental education, promoting sustainable living, and fostering an appreciation for nature. The center offers a wide variety of activities that change with the seasons. CEO Amanda Subjin explains, "If you come to PEEC, you could enjoy things like beginner canoeing or beginner fishing. Or if we have snow, you could do snowshoeing or cross-country skiing." In addition to these outdoor activities, PEEC also offers guided hikes where visitors can explore local wildlife and ecosystems. With twelve miles of trails open to the public and free parking, PEEC provides an accessible space for everyone. "You can come inside, you can learn about which trail you would want to take based on your ability, your group, how much time you have, what time of year, what you're looking to see," Amanda continues. For those seeking additional guidance, PEEC offers educational staff who provide tours and explanations, helping guests feel more connected to the environment.

While the outdoor adventures are a big draw, PEEC also offers enriching indoor experiences. One of the center's standout features is the Eco Zone, a unique discovery room located inside what was once an indoor swimming pool. "The Eco Zone is one of the premier things at PEEC because it's a one-of-a-kind experience," Amanda shares. This space is filled with sustainability exhibits and environmental education tools that are used during educational programs. The Eco Zone is also open to the public on weekends, where visitors can explore a walk-in Beaver Lodge or crawl through a Bat Cave to learn about the animals' habitats. "They get to learn about those animals and their habitat, and then also go outside and see them for themselves with a little bit more knowledge, so they could connect to that natural environment," Amanda explains.

The center’s educational mission continues in the off-season, thanks to staff members like Sinead Roche, who oversees the Eco Zone’s education animals. Sinead plays a crucial role in ensuring that the animals, such as Garrett the black rat snake, are well-cared for throughout the year. "She is a native species to the area, so she is the kind of snake that you could see if you're out on the trail here at PEEC," Sinead explains. This hands-on approach gives visitors a deeper understanding of the local wildlife and how to identify the creatures they might encounter while exploring the trails.

For those who prefer to explore the great outdoors, PEEC offers a range of hiking experiences suitable for all skill levels. Sinead describes one of the short, easy trails as a perfect example of the natural beauty that visitors can enjoy: "You see two ponds along the way. You see deciduous and coniferous trees along the way in their own individual ecosystems. You can see a lot of different wildlife." The trails are not just for walking but for learning, with opportunities to discover the area's rich natural history. Visitors can join interpretive hikes led by PEEC educators who share their insights. "They will tell you from their professional eye what they're seeing along the trail," Sinead adds. For those who prefer a more solitary experience, PEEC provides trail guides with markers that correspond to numbered points along the path, allowing visitors to learn at their own pace.

Whether you're hiking the trails, exploring the Eco Zone, or simply soaking in the beauty of the outdoors,  PEEC invites you to slow down, disconnect, and make nature a part of your story.

If you're ready to unplug and explore, PEEC is waiting for you to step outside and discover all that nature has to offer.