My family used to travel to the Pocono Mountains in Pennsylvania often in the summer months. We made lots of great memories going to places like Memorytown, Whispering Hills, and trips to the many parks, lakes, and gorgeous waterfall spots. I remember going to the lake and having fun on the paddle boats with my brother and sisters. We always went to the same American Indian store every time we visited to pick up little souvenirs. I didn’t really appreciate it back then but the Poconos has so much to offer.
Find Peace in the Poconos
The Pocono Mountains are located in Pike County and the Delaware Water Gap which is a quick ride from Connecticut, New York, and New Jersey. This serene destination offers many activities but the scenery has to be my favorite. In other words, if you are in need of relieving stress and want to visit a calm destination, this may be the perfect road trip for you!
I hadn’t been back to the Poconos since I was younger before going to college. Then about 7 years ago, I started dating my boyfriend who also shared the love of the Poconos. We had been friends for a while and went to the same college in Connecticut. We actually grew up about 15 minutes away from each other in New Jersey plus we vacationed in the same area as well! His family had built a cute vacation house near the NJ border of the Poconos. I couldn’t believe that growing up I was so close to him. What are the odds! His family’s vacation house is only 10 minutes from the same parks and stores I went to as a kid.
Dingmans Ferry Welcome Center
He took me there a few months after we started dating and I fell in love with the area all over again. I have always loved road tripping and visiting the welcome centers! We visit with the kids a few times per year in the summer and winter. Visiting in any season is relaxing and enjoyable.
This past May on Memorial Day, we got engaged right in front of the lake he grew up going to! It was a really special day because the kids were with us and they all asked me together. I was completely shocked and surprised! 🙂
Unwind and Relax
Just a short walk down a gravel road from the house is this beautiful lake. We go here every time we visit. It is a great place to meditate and just sit on the beach for some peace and quiet. In addition, we like to take walks and go for bike rides around the lake. The air is so fresh and pure up there!
I always enjoy taking pictures and videos of this area to watch when I am back home to remind me of the peaceful trip. Just watching the short videos bring me happiness and help me unwind.
Favorite Parks and Waterfalls in the Poconos
We visit a few times per year for a little rest and relaxation. From where we live in Connecticut it is only a 2 1/2 hour ride. The summer is a great time to visit. We enjoy going to see the waterfalls at the nearby Dingmans Falls and also George W. Childs State Park which unfortunately has been closed for a while due to storms a couple of years ago. However, I did quickly sneak in for just a few pictures last time because I missed it so much.
I enjoy going to see the waterfalls. My favorite pictures to take are of the brooks and waterfalls because that makes me feel happy and relaxed. The hiking trails are easy and not that crowded.
The vacation house is located in a quiet community surrounded by beauty. We usually just hang out at the house and go to the lake which is a quick walk down the road. There is a cute little beach there to sit on and picnic at. You can also go fishing in a boat or right off the dock. The kids like to go on the 4 wheeler and ride bikes around the development. It really is a place to just unwind and relax. However, there is a lot to do in the area like boating, biking, skiing, shopping, hiking trails, parks, tubing, rafting, adventure courses, ziplining, wineries and so much more.
Nothing like sitting by a fire pit to unwind at the end of the day. The kids love roasting marshmallows and making smores. It is a great quality family or a romantic getaway for sure.
On our way back last time we went another way because we were driving to NJ so we had to go over this old historic bridge. They actually have a person standing in the middle of the road to collect $1 to cross over.
Even the ride home is beautiful and there are so many great spots to stop for amazing pictures!
In conclusion, I hope you can get to the Poconos one day and experience the serenity and fun activities this area of Pennsylvania has to offer. Each time we go I feel so calm and refreshed and I always sleep better as well. The Poconos Mountains is definitely a place to add to your bucket list!
Jill DeMasi is a Lifestyle Blogger, Licensed Massage Therapist, and a Certified Wellness Coach with a passion for helping others manage stress, chronic pain, and anxiety. Learn more about her journey and wellness practice that offers natural solutions to stress at www.AtTheHeartofWellness.com.
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