Pocono Mountains Area

Year-round recreation is the draw to these parts, and nature doesn't disappoint in any season. Spring sends the waters rushing and tumbling off cliffs to create scenic waterfalls, and wildflowers paint the mounts. Summer finds the sparkling Lake Wallenpaupack packed with jet skis, canoes and fishing boats, while the frothy waters of the Lehigh and Delaware rivers bob with rafts. Summer also draws the honeymooners, who flock to lovers-only resorts boasting oversize champagne glass-shaped bubble tubs. Crisp autumn days bring spectacular fall foliage strewn about the hillsides, and golfers tee off at some 35 courses. And winter is the time to play: Skiing, snowboarding, snowmobiling and hunting all are popular mittens-required diversions.

Within a 2-hour drive of Philadelphia and the Big Apple, the Pocono Mountains have been a popular vacation spot since the early 1900s, when hoteliers built resorts geared for families and singles. Whether traveling alone, as a couple or with a clan, you'll find the area offers a myriad of amusing options.