Where are the Poconos?

where are the poconosThe region has been a popular tourist destination for years but where are the Poconos?  The Pocono Mountains are located in Northeastern Pennsylvania and a short drive from states like New York and New Jersey.  This beautiful area is home to small towns rich in culture and history, an abundance of outdoor activities and cozy bed and breakfast inns perfect for a weekend getaway.

The charming town of Hawley is a community on the Lackawaxen River and is a great place to enjoy an abundance of outdoor recreation.  Located about two hours from New York, the town is definitely a leisure destination.  There is great outdoor recreation, plenty of shopping and great restaurants.  The town is also a hot spot for entertainment as they are home to Harmony Presents at the Hawley Silk Mill and The Ritz Theater.  The Settlers Inn is set in Hawley in the Lake Wallenpaupack region.  This restored Arts and Crafts lodge is ideal for getaways to the area as it is home to 23 guest rooms, a farm-to-table restaurant on site and is central to all the outdoor adventure the area offers.

Milford (Pike County) and Honesdale (Wayne County) are both found in the Pocono Mountains.  These towns are rich in history with sections of the downtown districts listed on the National Register of Historic Places.  Honesdale brings many visitors into the town each year with their nine day County Fair in the summertime and their annual Roots and Rhythm Music and Arts Festival in June.  Milford has a music festival in June and the popular Black Bear Film Festival which takes place each October.

With over 170 miles of waterways and 150 lakes throughout, it is no wonder travelers find their way to the Pocono Mountains to explore the abundance of water recreation. The Delaware, Lehigh and Lackawaxen Rivers all run right through the Pocono Mountains.  With Class I and II rapids great for rafting and kayaking, to the peaceful fishing, boating and swimming, there is something to be found for everyone.  And even in the cooler months, the Pocono Mountains have great skiing at such resorts as Ski Big Bear and Camelback Mountain Resort.

Not only is the region an outdoor lovers playground, because of the Pocono Mountains rich history, there are many museums to visit here.  The Zane Grey Museum in Lackawaxen Township is actually the author’s former home.  Many of his photographs, books, artwork and furnishings can be seen on display at this museum.  There is also the Columns Museum in Milford.  The Columns Museum offers two floors of exhibits including 19th century clothing and presidential memorabilia.  The Wayne County Historical Society and Museum can be found in Honesdale.  It is here that visitors can view the Faces in Clay exhibit, Movin’ Energy exhibit and the Boyds Mills Press exhibit which begins on April 21st.

When you find your way to the Pocono Mountains region, you may never want to leave.  The winter months offer skiing and beautiful snow-capped mountains, the fall leaves are truly a magnificent sight and spring and summer weather bring on all the fun outdoor recreation in the area.  Now that you know where the Poconos are, how quickly can you get here?  Come and experience the beauty for yourself!

Photo courtesy of Nicholas A. Tonelli