Mount Pocono, PA
County: Monroe
History
Mount Pocono is a borough located in Monroe County, Pennsylvania, in the United States. The area of Mount Pocono has a rich history that dates back to before European settlers arrived.
For thousands of years, the region was inhabited by the indigenous Lenape people, who lived off the land, hunting, fishing, and farming. The Lenape referred to the area as "Popoonhoming," which means "a stream between two mountains."
European settlers began arriving in the early 18th century. In 1737, settlers from Philadelphia established the village of "Forks of the Delaware," which served as a trading post and a stopover for travelers moving westward. Over time, the village grew, and the name was eventually changed to Mount Pocono in 1816. The name "Pocono" is believed to be derived from the Lenape word "pohoqualin," meaning "a stream between two mountains."
With the arrival of the railroad in the mid-1800s, Mount Pocono became a popular resort destination. Visitors traveled from nearby cities to enjoy the fresh mountain air, beautiful scenery, and numerous outdoor recreational activities such as hunting and fishing. Several grand hotels were constructed to accommodate the growing number of tourists, including the Mount Pocono House, the Kittatinny House, and the Pocono Manor Inn.
The Mount Pocono area continued to attract visitors in the early 20th century, with the advent of the automobile making it more accessible. The region's natural beauty and proximity to natural resources like waterfalls and state parks made it an appealing destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Skiing also became a popular activity during the winter months, leading to the development of ski resorts.
In recent years, Mount Pocono has experienced growth as a residential community. Many people have chosen to make it their permanent home due to its picturesque surroundings, relatively close proximity to major cities like New York and Philadelphia, and lower cost of living compared to urban areas.
Today, Mount Pocono remains a popular tourist destination, with visitors coming to enjoy the natural beauty, outdoor recreational activities, and nearby attractions such as the Pocono Raceway and the Mount Airy Casino Resort. The borough continues to grow and evolve while preserving its rich history and connection to nature.
Attractions
Mount Airy Casino Resort
A popular casino resort offering gambling, entertainment shows, and a variety of dining options.
Kalahari Resorts
An indoor water park resort with slides, wave pools, and other water attractions.
The Crossings Premium Outlets
A large shopping outlet with a wide range of retail stores and discounted prices.
Big Pocono State Park
A beautiful state park with hiking trails, picnic areas, and scenic overlooks.
Camelbeach Mountain Waterpark
A water park with slides, pools, and other water attractions.
Skytop Lodge
A historic resort with golf courses, hiking trails, and outdoor activities.
Pocono Raceway
A famous race track that hosts NASCAR and other motor racing events.
Pocono Mountain Adventures
An adventure park offering activities such as zip-lining, tree-top courses, and obstacle courses.
Callie's Candy Kitchen
A popular candy store with homemade chocolates, fudge, and other sweet treats.
Great Wolf Lodge
An indoor water park resort with slides, pools, and other water attractions.
Climate
Mount Pocono, Pennsylvania experiences a humid continental climate. This means that the area has four distinct seasons, with hot and humid summers, cold winters, and variable weather during the transitional periods of spring and autumn.
Summers in Mount Pocono are warm and humid, with temperatures ranging from the high 70s°F (around 25°C) to the low 80s°F (around 27°C). However, occasional heatwaves can push temperatures above 90°F (32°C). Thunderstorms are common during the summer months, providing relief from the heat. The area also experiences a significant amount of precipitation during this season.
Winters in Mount Pocono are cold and snowy. Temperatures frequently drop well below freezing, with average lows ranging from the teens to the low 20s°F (around -6 to -5°C). Snowfall is abundant, with an average annual accumulation of over 50 inches (about 127 cm), making the area ideal for winter activities such as skiing and snowboarding.
Spring and autumn in Mount Pocono are mild and transitional. Temperatures during these seasons can vary greatly, with average highs in the 50s°F (around 10-15°C). Spring brings gradual warming and increased precipitation, while autumn sees temperatures gradually cooling down and foliage changing colors.
Due to its higher elevation in the Pocono Mountains region, Mount Pocono tends to experience slightly cooler temperatures and more precipitation compared to lower-lying areas. It is not uncommon for temperatures to be a few degrees cooler than nearby cities such as Scranton or Allentown.
Overall, the climate of Mount Pocono, PA offers a diverse range of weather conditions throughout the year, making it an attractive destination for outdoor enthusiasts year-round.
Neighborhoods
Mount Pocono, PA is a small borough located in Monroe County, Pennsylvania. It is situated in the beautiful Pocono Mountains region and is surrounded by scenic natural landscapes.
Here are some of the neighborhoods within and around Mount Pocono:
Mount Pocono Borough
The borough itself is the main residential area in Mount Pocono. It offers a mix of housing options, ranging from single-family homes to apartments. It is a close-knit community with a small-town feel.
Pocono Manor
Located just south of Mount Pocono, Pocono Manor is known for its historic and picturesque resort, the Pocono Manor Resort and Spa. The neighborhood features beautiful homes, golf courses, and scenic trails, making it a popular destination for vacationers and residents alike.
Pocono Farms
Situated to the west of Mount Pocono, Pocono Farms is a planned residential community. It offers a range of amenities such as a golf course, tennis courts, swimming pools, and a clubhouse. The neighborhood features single-family homes and townhouses, providing a suburban lifestyle.
Arrowhead Lake
Located to the east of Mount Pocono, Arrowhead Lake is a gated community that offers both full-time residents and vacationers a peaceful retreat. It features two large lakes, beaches, swimming pools, and recreational facilities. The neighborhood includes a mix of seasonal cabins, vacation homes, and year-round residences.
Emerald Lakes
Situated southeast of Mount Pocono, Emerald Lakes is another gated community known for its natural landscapes. It features several lakes, beaches, tennis courts, and other recreational facilities. The neighborhood offers a diverse range of homes, including single-family houses and townhomes.
These are just a few of the neighborhoods in and around Mount Pocono. Each area offers its own unique features and lifestyle options, but all are characterized by the natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities that the Pocono Mountains region is known for.