The Poconos are known the world over for their many opportunities for summer fun, as well as their winter skiing and activities. But as the first hints of autumn begin to paint the mountains, the Poconos transform into an unforgettable autumn destination. There are plenty of fall festivals and celebrations, but one of the most memorable ways to experience the rapidly changing hues of the mountains is on two wheels! Whether you are biking or aboard your motorcycle, let’s discover why the Poconos is the perfect place to experience the autumn season.
For those that want to couple the adrenaline-filled sport of mountain biking with the scenic views, the Poconos offer a playground of trails winding through lush forests and rugged terrain. You can immerse yourself in nature’s art show while testing your prowess on the pedals. Glen Park is a great place to start, and offers plenty of drops, gap jumps, doubles, and more. Its challenging single-tracks have made it a preferred stop for many mountain bikers along the East Coast since the 80’s.
Don’t plan on bringing your bike along on your trip? No worries! You can stop in at Peterson’s Ski & Cycle and rent mountain bikes and hybrids. They offer daily and weekly rentals, and have been serving the Poconos area for over 31 years.
Another of the most unforgettable places to experience the Poconos via bike in the autumn is the Lehigh Gorge Trail. This 26-mile rail trail offers some of the most awe-inspiring views of the color-drenched mountains and offers a fine gravel path suitable for almost all skill levels. There are also nearby bike rentals here, as well, such as Pocono Biking and Pocono Bike Rental. As a bonus, you’re also near the historic town of Jim Thorpe. Here you can take in their Fall Foliage Festival every weekend in October. Browse the many vendors, enjoy some delicious food and beverages, children’s activities, live music, and more!
Hickory Run State Park is another great option for biking enthusiasts. It offers lots of trails for varying skill levels, and all with amazing fall foliage on display!
If the motorized version of two-wheeled exploring is more of your thing, then the Poconos has an abundance of roads to satisfy you. Route 209, through the Delaware Water Gap Natural Recreation Area, is widely revered as one of the most scenic of fall road trips. You’ll catch great views of the surrounding mountains as well as the Delaware Water Gap. Several small towns dot the route, so you’ll have ample places to pull off and stretch your legs as you explore their charm and culture. Route 390 from Skytop down to Cresco is another favorite path for the motorcycle enthusiasts to experience in the fall. The many roads around Jim Thorpe and the Lehigh Gorge State Park are also popular destinations for taking in the autumn colors on your cycle.
You can also catch some great events sponsored by Pocono Mountain Harley Davidson this fall. Join us this year for their first annual Rally on the Mountain on September 9, hosted in conjunction with Camelback Resort. You’ll see tons of Harleys as you enjoy the live music and food. They also hold their annual Oktoberfest on October 14-15, and you can enjoy vendors, live music each day, food trucks, drinks, and more. Later in the fall, they’ll hold their Veteran’s Day Patch Ride (on Sunday, November 12), which benefits VALOR!
The Poconos offer an autumn experience like no other, no matter whether you are tearing up the hills on your bike or cruising the scenic byways on a motorcycle. So gear up, embrace the fall, and let the Poconos cast their enchantment upon you as you embark on an unforgettable journey through the heart of autumn’s splendor. And when it comes time to find that perfect place to call your home away from home, Pocono Mountain Rentals offers a wide variety of vacation rental accommodations that are sure to suit your needs. From large homes that can accommodate big groups to quaint lakeside properties, we have something for everyone.
Greg Petrillo