Generations of vacationers have visited the Pocono Mountains for a family getaway, honeymoon, or romantic retreat. The tradition continues as many find refuge from the daily routine in this special destination. The Poconos offers year-round activities, entertainment, and first-rate accommodations.
The Pocono Mountain range covers the northeastern corner of Pennsylvania and connects to the vast network of the Appalachian Mountains, a region stretching down along the eastern United States into northern Georgia. Varieties of oak, birch, and evergreens carpet the hills and plateaus of the Poconos. The area is ecologically diverse--terrain encompasses bogs, gorges, and lakes. Wildlife watchers may glimpse blue heron, bobcats, black bear, and otters in wilderness areas such as Worlds End State Park in Forksville, PA. A famous natural attraction, known as “the Niagara of Pennsylvania,� is Bushkill Falls, located in Bushkill, PA. Here, visitors can witness eight cascading falls rushing over ancient rock formations in the heart of the forest.
Summer activities abound with biking, horseback riding, and hiking. Numerous lakes and streams offer fishing, kayaking, and sailing. The Poconos autumn season brings visitors who enjoy the fresh air and brilliant fall colors. Snowy trails provide winter sports such as skiing, dog sledding, and snowmobiling.
Entertainment is part of the Pocono Mountains experience, and for tourists seeking dining and nightlife, the region does not disappoint. Dance clubs, restaurants, and pubs offer something for everyone. Always popular with both tourists and locals are the comedy clubs--two well-known venues are the Cove Haven in Lakeville, and Pocono Palace in East Stroudsburg.
Accommodations are available from the economical to opulent. You can look for the best deals by opting for discount hotel reservations. You can get discount hotel rates for options offering both luxury and breathtaking views from its plateau elevation, the 5500 acre Skytop Lodge has been in operation since 1928. Located in the town of Skytop, the property has a lake and views of West Mountain. Amenities include a golf course on the premises, three meals per day, private bath, hiking trails, and Internet.
For family-oriented accommodations, the Great Wolf Lodge has many activities that will appeal to both children and adults. The non-smoking suites are available for up to eight guests, and each suite combines rustic charm with all the modern conveniences. Amenities include mini refrigerator, microwave, sleeper sofa, coffee maker, and passes to the water park on the premises. The special kidcabin suites have a small log cabin room with bed and TV built into the larger family quarters. The lodge also offers whirlpool fireplace suites for adult pampering. Great Wolf Lodge is located on Route 611 in Scotrun, PA.
