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Getaway Guide: Weekend Road Trip To Camelback

There is so much more to do in the Pocono Mountains and at resorts like Camelback than just skiing! The area offers fun for the entire family year-round, from fall foliage to stock car racing. If you bike and hike, the Poconos promises great trails and parks where you can do both; some of the ski resorts even turn their slopes into trails during the off-season. This is an area that is spectacular for a romantic getaway or a family adventure.

Getting There

It will take you a little over two hours to reach Camelback from Philadelphia, but the ride is scenic and enjoyable. Follow the northeast extension of the Pennsylvania Turnpike to Quakertown. Exit at 309 North and follow that to I-78 East. Take the exit for Route 33 North and follow that until you reach I-80. Follow I-80 North into Tannersville, and then look for signs for Camelback Mountain.

What to Do

Camelback Mountain Resort
1 Camelback Road
Tannersville, PA 18372
Stock Car Racing Experience at Pocono Raceway
Route 940 Blakeslee Square
Blakeslee, PA 18610
(877) 786-2522
www.877stockcar.com

Price: $139 three-lap ride Monday to Friday/$149 Saturday and Sunday

For the ultimate adrenaline rush, book yourself a seat alongside an experienced driver in a 600-horsepower stock car and take a high-speed tour of the 2.5-mile speedway at Pocono Raceway. Safety is a priority, and all riders are equipped with a fire suit and crash helmet to make you feel secure as you travel at speeds well beyond 100 miles per hour. If you are a true adventure junkie, consider signing up for the eight-lap drive. After an introductory safety course, you will strap in behind the wheel and take control, cruising at speeds up to 165 miles per hour during your 20-mile ride.


Camelback Mountain Adventures

1 Camelback Road
Tannersville, PA 18372
(570) 629-18372
www.cbkmountainadventures.com

Price: $49 treetop course ages 9 and older/$29 explorer course, ages 6 to 10

If you're heading to the Pocono Mountains in the spring, summer or fall and you love adventure, spend a day or two at Camelback Mountain Adventures. This adventure park offers tons of options for the outdoor adventure seeker. Complete a treetop course to test your agility and endurance, or glide down a zipline that is more than 4,000 feet long on which riders reach speeds up to 50 miles per hour. If you're looking for something a little lower key, take a Segway mountain tour or play disc golf. Please note that reservations are recommended and many of the attractions have age, height and/or weight restrictions.

The Crossings Premium Outlets
1000 Premium Outlets Drive
Tannersville, PA 18372
(570) 629-4650
www.premiumoutlets.com

If you love to shop, especially for bargains, spend a day at The Crossings Premium Outlets. With 100 outlet stores from Adidas to Zumiez, there is something here for every member of the family. Enjoy designer fashions, housewares, shoes and children's items at 25 to 65 percent off of retail prices every day. Sign up for Premium Outlets' VIP club online and enjoy even greater savings with access to coupons and special offers that aren't made available to the general public. The Crossings are open year round, every day except Thanksgiving and Christmas.

Related: Top Outlet Malls Near Philadelphia

Lodging

The French Manor Inn and Spa
50 Huntingdon Drive
South Sterling, PA 18445
(877) 720-6090
www.thefrenchmanor.com

Price: from $190

Just 20 minutes from Camelback Mountain, The French Manor Inn and Spa is situated at the top of Huckleberry Mountain and offers spectacular views of the Pocono Mountains in all directions. With offerings including spa treatments, horseback riding and private hikes through the mountainside, you don't even need to leave this secluded château. The inn offers a variety of packages, including a romantic couple's getaway, a wine lovers' weekend, and golf and spa experiences for sports enthusiasts. The French Manor Inn and Spa caters to guests older than age 12 only.

Countryside Cottages
RR11 Box 3002
Stroudsburg, PA 18360
(570) 629-2131
www.countrysidecottages.com

Price: from $175

If you're looking for family and pet-friendly accommodations, the Countryside Cottages offer stand-alone cottages with anywhere from two to six bedrooms. These completely furnished cottages are great for a small family of four or a large group of up to 25. The cottages are nestled in the country and offer four-season fun, such as a large heated-pool for summer fun and hills for sledding in the winter. These cottages are close to all of the excitement the Poconos offers, including the major ski resorts and shopping centers.

Dining

Barley Creek Brewing Company
Sullivan Trail and Camelback Road
Tannersville, PA 18372
(570) 629-9399
www.barleycreek.com

If you are a fan of local microbrews, you'll definitely want to visit Barley Creek Brewing Company. This family friendly pub offers brewery tours every day at 12:30 p.m. Once you've finished the tour and have worked up an appetite, grab a table and enjoy the Beer Lovers' Dinner, which includes such delights as beer cheese soup, pale ale pork and a chocolate porter float for dessert. This pub also offers vegetarian options and a great kids menu.

Related: Best Local Breweries

Smuggler's Cove
Route 611
Tannersville, PA 18372
(570) 629-2277
www.smugglerscove.net

A visit to the Poconos would not be complete without a stop at the legendary Smuggler's Cove. A popular eatery for more than 30 years, the cove is still owned and operated by the same family that started it back in 1980. Whether you're a couple looking for a romantic night out or a family-friendly dining experience, Smuggler's Cove has it all. Enjoy daily specials, including an early dinner selection at a significantly reduced rate. And be sure to save room for dessert – the Rockslide Brownies are a winner!

Maddie Wagner is a freelance writer covering all things Philadelphia. Her work can be found on Examiner.com.

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