Travel Log: Pocono

It's easier to explain what is not offered in the Pocono Mountains rather than try and detail the various winter and summer activities that can take place in Pennsylvania's arm of the Appalachians.

But there's no reason to shy away from scanning the Long Pond area for things to do.

The season for skiing and snowmobiling has gone by quicker than the 200 mph laps at Pocono's racetrack. But it only makes way for hiking, mountain biking and lazy days at the lake.

The Pocono Mountains are rolling with 2,400 square miles of nature that includes 150 lakes, 18 waterfalls, 170 miles of river, seven state parks and 72,000 acres of state forests.

To say this place isn't a haven of opportunity for outdoorsmen is naive.

MAP OF LONG POND, PA.
Click here for directions and aerial map.

WHAT THE AREA OFFERS
The Poconos -- The Pocono Mountains in general offer a variety of activities throughout Northeast Pennsylvania. The traveler's home base can dictate the tour; a visitor who is not OK with a full day's drive may not be OK with heading from Long Pond up to Lake Wallenpaupack.

Fear not. The Pocono Mountains' Web site allows travelers to search area activities based on town, county, rating or property.
• For more information, click here

Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area -- A short drive from Long Pond, this national park is a one-stop-shop for family outdoor activities. It's located along the Delaware River, with opportunities for swimming, fishing, boating, camping and riding the water via kayak, boat or canoe. In addition to more than 100 miles of hiking, this area is popular for biking and horseback riding in the Poconos.
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Pennsylvania Route 6 -- National Geographic has called Route 6 "one of America's most scenic drives." Find out if it holds true by traversing part -- or all -- of this 400-mile stretch of drive across the state. While this may be a post-race activity to delay the trip home, it's full of riches that can be taken back in the form of story and photo. Pass through historic small towns. Snap shots of the forest like none other. And stop to eat in one of Small Town America's slow-paced diners.
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MUST-VISIT RESTAURANT
Van Gilder's Jubilee Restaurant -- Any place that claims to be the "Breakfast King" and has its Web site say the same has got to be worth checking out. This favorite of the Poconos has been serving hearty breakfast in Pocono Pines, Pa., since 1968. It also has lunch and dinner, as well as a pub. And to beat it all, it freely distributes recipes.
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WEATHER FORECAST
A chance of scattered storms on Friday with highs near 90, but otherwise clear and temperatures near 80. Complete forecast

BOOK YOUR TRAVEL
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