If you’re looking for a great way to get away, then consider planning a weekend trip to Northeastern Pennsylvania, where you’ll find plenty of outdoor activities for the whole family. In this article, we’ll share a few fun outdoor activities you can do when you visit this beautiful region. You can plan to stay in nature, as noted below, or search Vrbo Poconos to find accommodations.
Hiking
There is no shortage of mountains in Northeastern Pennsylvania. In fact, the Appalachian Mountains run through this section of the state so you can hike the beautiful Appalachian Trail or choose from any number of nearby state park trails.
Wherever you choose, you’re guaranteed to see some amazing mountain ranges, natural settings, and lots of wildlife. For a nice day hike, check out Hickory Run State Park in White Haven, D&H Trail at Lehigh Gorge State Park in Weatherly, or Ricketts Glen State Park in Benton.
Rafting & Kayaking
If you’re looking for a little adventure on the river, then you can go whitewater rafting or kayaking. A few options could be Pocono Whitewater Rafting, Whitewater Rafting Adventures, or Whitewater Challenges among others. These businesses have everything you need when it comes to journeying down the river. You can bring a whole group of friends or go solo.
They also have packages that allow you to rent for multiple days, which allows you to go farther down the river. These packages are ideal for people who also want to add camping to the adventure.
Camping
Whether you’re looking for a more official campground to bring an RV or pop-up camper, or you want to really get out in nature and sleep in a tent, there are plenty of camping sites to choose from. If you’re going the RV or pop-up camper route, you’ll find campgrounds that allow you to experience nature while still enjoying the amenities of having a clubhouse, pool, laundromat, and eateries onsite.
For those more interested in experiencing nature, then your best bet would be to contact nearby state parks about available camping places. Many state parks have areas where you can pitch a tent for the weekend. Also, there are designated camping places along hiking trails. Another option would be to rent an adirondack cabin for the weekend, which can be the best of both worlds. This way you’re still out in nature without being far from a bed. Plus you won’t have to worry about animals getting into your tent at night.
Paintball
Another exciting outdoor activity is paintball. Grab some friends and head out to a paintball range, where you’ll battle each other in friendly competition. One popular option is a version of “capture the flag” which you probably played as a kid. Only this time, you get to hold a paintball gun and blast the opposing team members along the way!
Skiing & Snowboarding
During the winter months, one of the biggest attractions that brings people to the area is great skiing and snowboarding conditions. Some of the most well-known ski resorts in Northeastern Pennsylvania include Big Boulder & Jack Frost Mountains, Elk Mountain, Camelback Mountain, Blue Mountain, Montage Mountain, and Shawnee Mountain. If you’re coming in from out of town, then you can reserve lodging at the resort rather than trying to find a nearby hotel.
If you have younger children, there are also snow tubing options as well as family-themed activities at the various resorts on most nights.