We have so many different types of trails that you can enjoy any season in the Pocono Mountains. Deanna and The PTN take you to check out two very different trails, one of our hiking trails and a stop on our beverage trail for an adventure called “Trails and Ales”.

Deanna was joined by her friend Kate Croll, who is an avid hiker and by co-owner of Bright Path Brewing, Alex Franko, who is also an avid hiker and trail runner. Deanna had asked Alex beforehand to find them a trail to all explore. Alex chose the Tank Hollow Trail, which is just outside the town of Jim Thorpe because,“ it is a nice, easy trail for all levels and the payoff is pretty awesome”, he shared. This trail is good for anyone, it’s a good beginner starter trail for those of you that just want to get out there but are not huge hikers. If you’re looking for a nice walking trail with a good view, this is a good one to check out.

Once out on the trail Deanna asked Alex, “What gets you out on the trails, especially the ones here in the Pocono Mountains?”

Alex shared, “Part of it is just enjoying the outdoors. You get to see all the different seasons. I think it helps in many ways physically, emotionally, all that kind of stuff. I just think it’s a well-rounded thing to do and enjoy.

Deanna responded, “I love what you said about the seasons because I feel like you can go on the same trail and it’s never the same. You’re always going to see something different. In the summer, in the spring, in the fall the leaves are changing. It’s always so pretty.

Alex: “Yea it’s beautiful all year round, which is great. Whether there is snow on the ground, or the leaves have just fallen, or spring is in bloom, it’s cool”

Deanna then asked Kate a very similar question, ”What gets you out on the trails? I know you love to go hiking with friends or sometimes by yourself. What’s your favorite trail and why do you go?”

Kate shared, “I go because it’s very grounding and therapeutic for me to be surrounded by nature. All the different sounds and the feel of your feet on a trail. Of course, the views are awesome too. I would say it’s hard to pick just one trail because the Pocono Mountains has so many amazing trails that offer so much.”

When they reached the vista, the view was breathtaking. They sat and enjoyed for a bit and took it all in.  From the overlook, you can see a panoramic view of the Lehigh River Gorge. Alex’s suggestion of Tank Hollow did not disappoint!

After finishing up the “Trails” part of their adventure it was time for the “Ales”. Many people like to treat themselves after an outdoor activity, to a nice cold beverage so it was time to visit the brewery next.

Once they arrived at Bright Path Brewing, Alex poured them all a pint, they of course had a cheers to their hike and the beautiful view but Deanna wanted to know more about the brewery and it’s connection with the nearby town of Jim Thorpe.

Deanna asked Alex, Where the brewery name Bright Path came from?

Alex replied, ”Bright Path is actually Jim Thorpe’s native name, translated into English.”

Deanna also asked,” What do you want to tell viewers that have never been to Jim Thorpe or have never been to the area, about the area and about the brewery?”

Alex shared, ”Oh man, Jim Thorpe in general is just such a beautiful place. We have all this amazing scenery and a lot of history, not just with Jim Thorpe himself but with the town prior to that."

For more information on all the trails and breweries throughout the Poconos, make sure to explore our website and just a reminder, Bright Path Brewery is on our beverage trail, check out the full list of all the stops and so much more.