Outdoor Adventures In the Poconos
With winding trails, hidden waterfalls, and lakes that shimmer under the summer sun, the Poconos is a natural playground begging to be explored. Paddle through quiet coves, hike to sweeping mountaintop views, or take the scenic route and stop for every overlook. From forest walks and river runs to afternoons that end around the campfire, it’s easy to fill your days with fresh air and just the right amount of adventure. In the Poconos, the best memories start outside.
Kittatinny Canoes
📍113 River Rd, Milford, PA
Floating the Delaware is a Poconos rite of passage. Kayak, canoe, or tube your way along the peaceful riverbanks, where wildlife sightings and wooded views are all part of the ride. Local outfitters like Kittatinny make it easy to plan a day on the water.
Hawk Falls
📍3613 PA-534, White Haven, PA
An easy walk through the woods leads to Hawk Falls, a hidden cascade that’s perfect for a mid-hike cool-down. The trail is short but scenic, with just enough rocky patches to feel like an adventure. A great payoff for a relatively mellow hike.
Lehigh Gorge Trail
📍1 Susquehanna St, Jim Thorpe, PA (Access to Lehigh Gorge Trail)
Hop on the Lehigh Gorge Trail for a breezy bike ride past waterfalls, canyon walls, and forested riverside stretches. It’s smooth, mostly downhill, and loaded with views. Rentals and shuttles in town make it beginner-friendly and easy to navigate.
Bushkill Falls
📍138 Bushkill Falls Trail, Bushkill, PA
Known as the “Niagara of Pennsylvania,” Bushkill Falls is a series of dramatic cascades framed by wooded boardwalks and forest trails. Grab a trail map and take your time exploring the full loop.
Mountain Creek Riding Stable
📍6190 Paradise Valley Rd, Cresco, PA
Take in the scenery from horseback on a guided ride through woods, fields, and stream crossings. No experience? No problem. At Mountain Creek Riding Stable these gentle trail horses and experienced guides make it an easygoing adventure for all levels.
Big Pocono State Park Summit
📍Camelback Rd, Tannersville, PA
For some of the best views in the region, head up to the summit of Camelback Mountain at Big Pocono State Park. You can drive to the top or hike your way there but either way, the wide-open overlook is worth the climb. Sunrise and sunset are especially magical.
Promised Land State Park
📍100 Lower Lake Rd, Greentown, PA
A peaceful spot for fishing, paddling, or just soaking up the lake breeze. Promised Land offers two scenic lakes surrounded by lush trails and picnic-perfect clearings. Bring a book, a blanket, and make a day of it.
Boulder Field
📍Boulder Field Trail, White Haven, PA
This massive, glacier-formed boulder field feels like you’ve stepped onto another planet. Kids will love climbing the rocks, and geology fans will be fascinated by the natural history. It’s weird, wonderful, and totally one-of-a-kind. Boulder Trail is 6.5 miles out and back of pure beauty.
The Poconos are packed with natural beauty and just the right mix of adventure and ease, perfect for a weekend escape that feels a world away. Hike, paddle, bike, or just kick back by the lake and watch the sun do its thing. Make it a full-on reset with a Red Cottage stay nearby so you’ve got a cozy base to come home to after every outing.
