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A group of rafters takes on the wild rapids of the Lehigh River with Whitewater Challengers in Weatherly, PA, a popular outdoor activity and extreme sports adventure in the Pocono Mountains.
Outdoors
June 19, 2025
Can't-Miss Outdoor Activities in the Pocono Mountains
Explore unforgettable outdoor activities in the Pocono Mountains this summer, from whitewater rafting and paintball to hiking, biking and lake adventures. Check out this awesome list of 10 exciting ways to enjoy the great outdoors in NEPA.
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Experience 10 Awesome Outdoor Activities in the Pocono Mountains

Discover the best outdoor activities in the Pocono Mountains, a region filled with excitement, natural beauty and all-season recreation. From thrilling whitewater adventures on the Lehigh River to peaceful paddling along the Delaware River, the Poconos offer something for every kind of outdoor enthusiast. Whether you’re visiting for the weekend or planning a longer getaway, there are endless ways to enjoy the great outdoors here.

Try rail biking through forested trails or test your aim at Skirmish Paintball, one of the country’s largest paintball fields. Explore scenic Pocono state parks, go hiking or biking, and experience breathtaking views with every step. Relax by the water at Lake Wallenpaupack or take a leap into adventure with ziplining or ATV tours. Want a slower pace? Glamping sites across the region provide a comfortable way to stay connected with nature.

For adrenaline junkies and laid-back explorers alike, these outdoor activities in the Pocono Mountains promise fresh air, scenic beauty and unforgettable moments. Ready to get out there and explore?

 

10 Outdoor Activities in the Pocono Mountains

01
OF 10
Pennsylvania Rail Bike

Hawley, PA

Pennsylvania Rail Bike in Hawley offers electric rail bike tours along scenic tracks through the Pocono Mountains. Riders choose 10- or 20-mile routes that explore forests, riverside paths, and historic views along the Lackawaxen River. It’s a unique, seasonal outdoor activity perfect for families, couples, and groups.

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02
OF 10
Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area

Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area spans 70,000 acres in the Poconos, offering year-round outdoor recreation. Visitors enjoy hiking, camping, fishing, paddling and waterfall sightseeing along the Delaware River and Appalachian Trail. The park features scenic overlooks, river beaches, and miles of trails perfect for exploring the great outdoors.

*Dingmans Falls access roads, visitor center and trail system will be closed for maintenance and repairs throughout the summer of 2025.

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03
OF 10
Pocono Slingshot Rentals

Blakeslee, PA

Pocono Slingshot Rentals in Blakeslee lets visitors explore the Pocono Mountains in high-speed, open-air Polaris Slingshots. Riders cruise scenic routes past lakes, mountain roads, and top outdoor spots like Lake Wallenpaupack and Hickory Run State Park. It’s a thrilling way to enjoy outdoor activities in the Poconos from April through October.

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04
OF 10
Skirmish Paintball

Albrightsville, PA

Skirmish Paintball in Albrightsville features 700 acres of fields with castles, forests, and bunkers in the Pocono Mountains. With rentals, referees, and package deals, it’s perfect for all skill levels and group events. It’s a top destination for outdoor action and team adventures in NEPA.

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05
OF 10
Whitewater Challengers

Weatherly, PA

Whitewater Challengers in Weatherly offers guided rafting trips on the Lehigh River. Families and thrill-seekers can tackle Class I to III rapids or enjoy full-day adventures with hiking and biking. They’re a top outfitter for outdoor activities in the Pocono Mountains with riverside views and group-friendly options.

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06
OF 10
Pocono Biking

Jim Thorpe & White Haven, PA

Pocono Biking in Jim Thorpe offers scenic rail-trail rides and guided tours through the Lehigh Gorge. Riders can enjoy shuttle-supported routes, multi-day trips, and the popular Bike Train experience. It’s a go-to spot for biking adventures surrounded by waterfalls, rivers, and mountain views.

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07
OF 10
Promised Land State Park

Greentown, PA

Promised Land State Park in Greentown spans over 15,000 acres and offers year-round adventure in the Poconos. Hike scenic trails, explore waterfalls like Little Falls, and paddle quiet lakes surrounded by forest. Combined with the surrounding Delaware State Forest, visitors can enjoy over 50 miles of hiking trails.

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08
OF 10
Mauch Chunk Lake Park

Jim Thorpe, PA

Mauch Chunk Lake Park in Jim Thorpe offers year-round outdoor recreation with trails, a 345-acre lake, and scenic Pocono views. Visitors enjoy swimming, paddling, fishing, and hiking through colorful forests or snow-covered trails. The park also features camping and trail access into downtown Jim Thorpe.

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09
OF 10
Lake Wallenpaupack

Hawley, PA

Lake Wallenpaupack spans 5,700 acres across Pike and Wayne counties and offers year-round lake recreation in the Pocono Mountains. Visitors enjoy fishing, paddling, camping, and scenic lakeside trails like the Lake Wallenpaupack Trail. Public beaches, boat rentals, and campgrounds make it a favorite spot for water lovers and outdoor explorers.

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10
OF 10
Glamping at Shawnee Inn and Golf Resort

Shawnee on Delaware, PA

The Shawnee Inn offers glamping experiences that blend comfort with outdoor adventure along the Delaware River. Guests can choose riverside tents with modern amenities or boat-access-only island sites for a secluded escape. Both options provide scenic views, campfires, and direct access to nearby outdoor activities.

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Article has been updated from its original version published on 9/10/21.

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10 Outdoor Activities in the Pocono Mountains
10 Outdoor Activities in the Pocono Mountains Image
Brian Johnson
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Ryan Wood
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