A long-standing destination for its copious mountain snow, the Poconos’ summer brings its A-game, too, with an array of warm-weather activities. From choice bike riding trails to a mountain coaster, there’s always something new to explore in the region. Here's what should go on your summertime travel agenda this year.
1. Camelback Mountain Resort’s Twin Zip-Flyers (Tannersville, PA)Camelback Resort is home to North America's longest zip line: the 60-miles-per-hour, 4,000-foot-long Twin Zip-Flyers ($34.99 per ride). Sit back as you're given only a moment to brace yourself, before the door swings open and the ride takes off. Flying over the mountain park arguably yields the best view of the region. For a warm up, start with the lower-key 1,000-foot dual zip line ($14.99 per ride) also onsite.
2. The Ranch at Pocono Manor (Pocono Manor, PA)
The Ranch at Pocono Manor’s horseback trail rides start at $50 per person and increase based on skill level and trail. Opt for the Waterfall Trail, where the terrain winds around and through falls in the region. For those looking to make a longer journey, The Ranch offers a three-hour grand tour of trails that discover historic pump houses, abandoned buildings, and the area's picturesque settings.
3. Pocono Biking (Jim Thorpe, PA)
The snow’s melted and the forest is perfect for a bike ride. Pocono Biking removes the stress and anxiety of biking away from home with a comprehensive rental package that offers high-end mountain bikes, caboose rentals (for little ones), and buddy bikes (for two people) ranging from $29.99 and up to a full day. Of the trails on offer, start with the Diamond Trail Section, an 11-mile trail throughout the state park that rides along lakes, beaver ponds, and wild flowers throughout the Lehigh River up to Glen Summit. Once you’re warmed up, head over to the most popular Full Gorge Trail that spans 25 miles and brings riders bankside along the Lehigh River.
4. Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway
For those looking for a little less action with their adventure, hop on board the vintage coaches of the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway. These train rides journey back to 1917, when massive diesel engines transported the world. The experience is marked by a 70-minute guided tour along 16 miles of track through the Lehigh Gorge State Park. Scenic vistas of mountain terrain, wildlife, and the river are can be viewed through the comfort of the open-air coaches.
5. Camelback Mountain Resort’s Mountain Coaster (Tannersville, PA)
Clip along the mountainside at dizzying speeds in the Mountain Coaster ($9.99 per ride) at Camelback Resort. Winding through 4,500 feet of steel track, drivers control the speed and pace of their car with handle breaks, giving you control of your experience. If you dare, hang on tight without letting up on the breaks of this wild ride -- the banked turns and drops are best felt at full speed.