Itching to get out of the city?
That itching feeling might be anxiety likely caused by stressful or toxic environments. If your first quarter burnout snuck up on you, it’s probably time for a much-needed break.
Long weekends are the best excuse to travel out of the city for a change of scenery and find a much needed mental respite.
With long-term benefits like improved mental health and better emotional state, the perfect escape from the city is nature’s best-kept secret: the Pocono Mountains.
Tucked high up in the mountains, there’s a 5,500-acre outdoor playground waiting for you. Hear that? Yeah, that’s dirt crunching underneath your feet. Skytop Lodge is just under three hours from the city. Just hop on the I-80 W.
When planning a weekend getaway from New York, you’ll want your itinerary to pack a punch and also allow time for relaxation. We’ve put together some weekend trip ideas to make the most of your time as you reconnect with what matters most.
If nature’s calling doesn’t convince you to book a room ASAP, then allow us to explain the many adventures you’ll find in the Poconos.
Reconnect With Nature (And Yourself) in The Poconos
There’s a distinct difference between walking along city pavement and feeling the sinking, crunching, grinding sounds of nature with each step you take.
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As nature’s soundtrack replaces the routine noise of home, you’re greeted with a crisp hello. It’s an absolute must to breathe in as much fresh air from the Pocono Mountains as you can. Fill up your lungs with the good stuff and take it home with you feeling refreshed and grounded. Feel your mind and body getting lighter and calmer by the hour.
While a nature hike might feel a little too much like Boy Scout Camp, it’s a must for kids and adults of all ages. Use this trail map to find a short day hike suited for your hiking level. The trick is to take it slow as you look all around. You might see owls and other unique bird species, or the glistening water of the lake peeking out from behind the trees. Even the rocks and plants are worth a second look as you take in all that the forest has to offer.
If you’re interested in taking a day trip, head to the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area about 45 minutes from Skytop Lodge. Every season comes to life here. Plus, you can choose to drive through, or get out and go see the waterfalls.
Challenge Your Wits On the Appalachian Trail
More than 45 miles of the Appalachian Trail runs through the Poconos, but the entire trail stretches from Georgia to Maine. Mount Minsi is a popular Poconos destination along the Appalachian Trail. Enter the trail from the town of Delaware Water Gap. It’s a moderate-to-strenuous hike that offers stunning views of New Jersey from the summit. Up and back it’s about 5.5 miles of rocky terrain.
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Find Idyllic Après-Ski at The Taproom
If your long weekend looks more like shooshing along white powder, you’re in luck. Located on West Mountain, our distinct slopes feature beautiful panoramic views of the Pocono Mountains and wide trails cut through serene Pennsylvania forest. You can rent equipment at the ski hill located at Dutch Hill Road and Route 390. Plus, ski and snowboarding school is available for those who need a little refresher.
For those looking to have fun in the snow, but aren’t up for skiing, snow tubing is just as fun (if not more). Rent a tube and head down the hill to see who can go the furthest!
Relaxation looks different for everyone. If you’re into skin and body care, treat yourself at the Skyview Spa. Stimulating, healing and innovative spa services will detoxify, rejuvenate and relax. Just need some simple solitude? Take your morning coffee on a nature walk right outside your door.
Then, it’s the fun part: well-earned food and beverages. The Taproom is where it’s at for an iced cold local craft beer and hamburger. Add a basket of fries for the table and stunning mountain views and it’s about as idyllic as it gets.
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Teach the Kids Something New
The great thing about the Poconos, and Skytop Lodge specifically, is that it’s ideal for couples, groups of friends, and families with kids of any age. Canoeing and fishing are among some of the favorite activities our guests love to do with kids. For kids who have never caught a fish or rowed a boat, learning these new skills can be exciting and energizing.
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Before you know it, you’ll feel reconnected with yourself and your family. The benefits of teaching someone a new skill aren’t just for the one learning something. Giving your time and wisdom is an unexpected yet rewarding element of any family vacation.
Another place to check out with kids is the Pocono Snake and Animal Farm. This fun family outing is a must-do on your vacation to the Poconos. Feeding an alligator might sound scary, but it’s perfectly safe and a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
For over 40 years, this Pocono family farm has been collecting exotic animals of all kinds and now boasts an impressive assortment of mammals and reptiles. Many animals have been donated to the farm over the years because their previous owners were no longer fit to care for an exotic pet.
Ready to plan your getaway? Book your long weekend respite from the city and save with special winter rates. Inclusive of Daily Breakfast, the Winter Break Package is the ideal package! Explore Skytop’s winter wonderland through a wide variety of activities included in this package:
- Kids Stay & Eat Free in Windsor**
- Overnight Accommodations
- A Delicious Daily Breakfast in Windsor
- Nightly Campfire & Marshmallow Roast
- Hayride
- Snow Tubing
- Ice Skating with Rentals
- Skiing/Snowboarding Lift Ticket*** with Rentals
- Cross Country Skiing
- Snowshoeing
Book your room online or call us at (855) 345-7759 for more information about planning your dream vacation, including spa packages and dinner reservations.