Best Things to Do in the Poconos This Spring

Spring in the Poconos is one of the most beautiful times to visit. As the snow melts and temperatures rise, the region transforms into a vibrant landscape filled with blooming wildflowers, flowing waterfalls, and endless opportunities for outdoor fun. From April through June, travelers can enjoy the perfect mix of Poconos spring activities, scenic adventures, and relaxing small-town charm.

If you’re planning a seasonal escape, here are the top things to do in the Poconos in spring.

🌸 Hiking & Waterfalls in Full Bloom

Spring is prime time for hiking in the Poconos, as trails reopen and waterfalls reach peak flow from melting snow.

• Bushkill Falls – Known as the “Niagara of Pennsylvania,” this iconic destination features a series of stunning waterfalls and well-maintained trails.

• Raymondskill Falls – The tallest waterfall in Pennsylvania, offering breathtaking multi-tiered cascades and scenic hiking trails.

• Hickory Run State Park – Offers scenic hiking trails, forests, and unique natural features like Boulder Field.
• Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area – A must-visit for breathtaking hikes, river views, and cascading waterfalls.

This is the perfect season to explore nature and capture stunning spring scenery.

🎣 Fishing & Boating Season Begins

Spring marks the start of fishing season in the Poconos, making it a favorite time for anglers and lake lovers.

• Lake Wallenpaupack – One of the region’s largest lakes, ideal for boating, fishing, and waterfront relaxation.
• Lake Harmony – A scenic and popular lake perfect for boating, fishing, kayaking, and lakeside leisure with beautiful mountain views.
• Promised Land State Park – A peaceful spot for kayaking, canoeing, and trout fishing.
• Beltzville Lake – Popular for fishing, boating, and enjoying scenic shoreline views.

Whether you’re casting a line or cruising on the water, spring offers the perfect conditions.

🚣 Whitewater Rafting on the Lehigh River

For thrill-seekers, whitewater rafting in the Poconos is a must during spring.

• Lehigh River – Experience exciting rapids and guided rafting trips suitable for beginners and experienced adventurers alike.

Spring runoff creates ideal water levels, making this one of the most exciting outdoor activities in the region.

🚴 Biking Through Scenic Trails

Take advantage of mild weather with biking in the Poconos, surrounded by fresh greenery and blooming landscapes.

• Lehigh Gorge Trail – A popular route offering stunning mountain views, waterfalls, and a relatively easy ride for all skill levels.
• Pocono biking routes throughout the region provide scenic paths perfect for casual riders and cycling enthusiasts.

⛳ Golfing with Mountain Views

Spring is also the start of golf season in the Poconos, with courses reopening amid scenic mountain landscapes and fresh outdoor air.

• Shawnee Inn Golf Course – One of the oldest golf resorts in the Poconos, this historic 27-hole course sits along the Delaware River and offers scenic fairways, island greens, and a classic mountain golf experience.

• The Country Club at Woodloch Springs – A premier championship golf course consistently ranked among the best in Pennsylvania, featuring pristine fairways, luxury resort amenities, and a beautifully designed mountain layout.
• Mount Airy Golf Club – A popular Pocono Mountains golf destination offering a well-maintained course with rolling terrain, scenic views, and a challenging yet enjoyable layout for all skill levels.
• Pocono Hills Golf Course – A welcoming public golf course in the Poconos known for its affordable play, relaxed atmosphere, and scenic mountain surroundings ideal for casual and beginner golfers.
• Jack Frost National Golf Club – A highly rated mountain golf course known for its elevated tees, dramatic elevation changes, and panoramic views of the Pocono Mountains.

• Skytop Lodge Golf Course – A historic mountaintop golf course set within the Skytop Lodge resort, offering breathtaking Pocono Mountain views, peaceful surroundings, and a traditional golf experience.
• Split Rock Golf Club – A scenic 9-hole golf course located near Lake Harmony, offering a fun and approachable layout with rolling greens and convenient access to Pocono resort amenities.

It’s the perfect way to relax, enjoy the outdoors, and experience some of the best golf courses in the Pocono Mountains.

🎉 Spring Festivals & Local Events

As the weather warms, the Pocono Mountains come alive with vibrant spring festivals, outdoor events, and local celebrations that attract visitors from all over Pennsylvania and nearby states.

• Jim Thorpe – A top Pocono Mountains destination known for year-round seasonal events, live music, historic charm, boutique shopping, and popular festivals like the Jim Thorpe Running Festival.
• Milford – A scenic Delaware River town offering art festivals, farmers’ markets, and a strong local culture, including community celebrations and seasonal events.
• Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade (Pocono Region) – A festive regional celebration featuring parades, music, and family-friendly activities across the Pocono area.
• Earth Day Festival – A popular spring event in the Poconos celebrating sustainability, nature, and outdoor living with local vendors, activities, and environmental programs.
• Kalahari Food & (Not Just) Wine Festival – A major indoor food and wine event featuring top chefs, tastings, entertainment, and family-friendly experiences at Kalahari Resorts in the Poconos.
• Wine on the River (Delaware River Region) – A scenic wine festival featuring local wineries, live entertainment, and riverfront views along the Delaware River.
• West End Fireman’s Festival – A long-running community tradition featuring food vendors, live music, rides, and family-friendly entertainment in the western Pocono region.

These spring events highlight the best of Pocono Mountains festivals, combining small-town charm, outdoor fun, and seasonal celebrations perfect for visitors and families alike.

🦅 Wildlife & Scenic Drives

The Pocono Mountains in Pennsylvania are a year-round destination known for mountains, lakes, forests, waterfalls, and abundant wildlife. Visitors can enjoy bald eagle sightings, deer, black bears, and diverse bird species across scenic parks, rivers, and nature preserves.

🌲 Top Wildlife & Nature Spots

• Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area – One of the best places in the Poconos for bald eagle viewing, river scenery, hiking, and wildlife along the Delaware River.

• Promised Land State Park – Forested park ideal for spotting deer, birds, and enjoying scenic lake drives and hiking trails.
• Route 507 Scenic Drive (Lake Wallenpaupack area) – Popular drive offering lake views and frequent wildlife sightings, including deer and eagles.
• Carbon County Environmental Education Center – Wildlife rehabilitation and education center featuring native Pennsylvania animals and conservation programs.
• Lacawac Sanctuary – Protected nature preserve with lake views, wetlands, trails, and ecological research areas.

🐾 Family-Friendly Attractions

• Claws ‘N’ Paws Wild Animal Park – A popular zoo and safari-style park featuring exotic animals, interactive exhibits, and family-friendly wildlife encounters.

• Pymatuning Deer Park – Home to 250+ animals including deer, bears, and a petting zoo experience.

• Bear Mountain Butterfly Sanctuary – Interactive sanctuary with butterflies, reptiles, amphibians, and educational exhibits for kids.
• Country Junction – World’s Largest General Store – A unique Pocono attraction featuring shopping, animals, family activities, and seasonal events.
• Pocono Snake and Animal Farm – Hands-on reptile and animal attraction featuring snakes, lizards, turtles, and educational wildlife experiences.

🌿 Final Thoughts: Why Visit the Poconos in Spring?

Spring in the Poconos offers a refreshing escape filled with hiking, waterfalls, fishing, rafting, biking, and festivals. With fewer crowds than peak summer and breathtaking natural beauty, it’s the perfect time to explore everything the region has to offer.

If you’re looking for the best Poconos spring activities, this guide will help you plan an unforgettable outdoor adventure.