3-Day Itinerary Hawley, PA: Experience the Best of the Pocono Mountains

Planning a trip to the Pocono Mountains? Let me tell you about our amazing experience in Hawley, PA. We met up with our friends at Silver Birches Resort, making it our cozy home base for a fun-filled weekend. There were 3 girls ages 4-7 and they had a blast! We packed our three days with tons of activities and already can’t wait to go back next summer.

Here’s everything we did and more during our 3-day adventure in the Pocono Mountains exploring Hawley, PA:

Day 1: Arrival and Relaxation at Silver Birches Resort

Silver Birches Resort 205 PA-507, Hawley, PA 18428 | Website: Silver Birches Resort

Start your trip by checking into the Silver Birches Resort, a historic property on the shores of Lake Wallenpaupack. This resort combines rustic charm with modern amenities, offering spacious accommodations perfect for families. Choose from rooms in the main resort or cozy cabins with kitchens and living areas. The lakeside views are stunning and set the tone for a relaxing getaway.

Afternoon: Lunch at The Dock on Wallenpaupack

After settling in, head to The Dock which is the Silver Birches Resort Restaurant, for a delicious lunch. This on-site restaurant boasts beautiful lake views and a menu full of fresh, locally-sourced dishes. The kids will love the casual atmosphere and you’ll appreciate the excellent food and service with lake front views. Don’t miss the fish tacos and the signature Dock Burger.

Evening: Bonfire and Lake Activities

Spend the evening enjoying the amenities at Silver Birches Resort. The resort offers various activities, including paddleboarding, kayaking, and fishing on Lake Wallenpaupack. As the sun sets, gather around the lakeside bonfire. The resort provides everything you need for s’mores, making it a perfect way to end your first day.

Day 2: Exploring Hawley, PA

Morning: Rail Car Rides in Hawley

Activity: Rail Car Rides

Head into downtown Hawley for a unique experience on the historic rail car. These scenic rides take you through the beautiful countryside, offering a fun and educational experience for the kids. The rail car operates on a seasonal schedule, so be sure to check availability in advance. Our girls all said this two hour rail car through the Pocono Mountains was the favorite part of their trip! We saw an Eagle, Hawk, so many deer, and other wildlife while riding along the stunning river. We will be doing the rail car every time we visit Hawley, PA. It is a MUST do! 

Afternoon: Picturesque Picnic by the Lake

Website: Picturesque Picnics

Start your afternoon with a special picnic arranged by Picturesque Picnics. They create stunning setups with comfortable seating, delicious food, and amazing views. This is a great way to enjoy breakfast or brunch by the lake and the perfect way to calm your nervous system for a relaxing vacation. Their attention to detail ensures a memorable experience for both kids and adults. We opted to end the trip with our Picnic but would recommend making time for it. 10/10!

Late Afternoon: Stroll Through Downtown Hawley

Spend the rest of the afternoon exploring downtown Hawley. The town is full of quaint shops, cafes, and galleries. Stop by the Hawley Silk Mill, a historic building now home to various boutiques and art galleries. The kids will enjoy browsing the unique stores and maybe picking out a souvenir or two.

Evening: Dinner at a Local Restaurant

For dinner, visit one of Hawley’s excellent restaurants. The Boathouse Restaurant, located nearby, offers a cozy atmosphere and a diverse menu. Whether you’re in the mood for seafood, steak, or vegetarian options, there’s something for everyone.

Night: Star Gazing and Relaxation

Return to Silver Birches Resort for some evening relaxation. The clear skies of the Poconos are perfect for stargazing. Spend some time on your cabin’s deck or by the lake, enjoying the tranquility of the night.

Day 3: Adventure and Family Fun

Morning: Bushkill Falls Hike

Bushkill Falls 138 Bushkill Falls Trail, Bushkill, PA 18324 | Website: Bushkill Falls

Start your final day with an adventure to Bushkill Falls, known as the “Niagara of Pennsylvania.” The series of eight waterfalls is accessible through well-marked hiking trails that range from easy to moderate. The scenic beauty of the falls and the surrounding forest will captivate both adults and kids. Be sure to wear comfortable hiking shoes and bring plenty of water.

Afternoon: Three Hammers Winery

Three Hammers Winery 877 Welcome Lake Rd, Hawley, PA 18428 | Website: Three Hammers Winery

After your picnic, take a short drive to Three Hammers Winery. This family-friendly winery offers a beautiful setting and a range of wines to taste. While the adults enjoy a wine tasting, the kids can explore the vineyard and enjoy the outdoor space. The winery often has events and live music, adding to the fun. I highly recommend the tasting experience that has cheese and wine pairing. Three Hammers Winery Merlot was the BEST Merlot I’ve ever had and I’m so mad I didn’t buy a case. You can easily spend all afternoon at Three Hammers Winery especially when the music begins at 2pm. Plan accordingly as this will be a fun memory on your trip for the kids and adults!

Evening: Pizza Party at the Cabin

Cap off your last evening with a fun and casual pizza party at your cabin. Order from a local pizzeria and enjoy a relaxed meal together. It’s a great way to unwind after a busy day of adventures. The Cabins at Silver Birches Resort have a full living room, dining area, and tv. We had the windows and front door open, tv on for the girls, and we enjoyed a cocktail from their lake bar with our pizza!

More Things to Do in Lake Wallenpaupack

If you’re planning a longer stay, there are plenty more activities to enjoy around Lake Wallenpaupack and the Pocono Mountains:

Boating and Fishing: The lake offers ample opportunities for boating and fishing. Rent a boat or bring your own to explore the 13 miles of water, or try your hand at catching some of the local fish species.

Water Sports: From jet skiing to paddleboarding, Lake Wallenpaupack is a haven for water sports enthusiasts. The calm waters make it a perfect spot for all skill levels.

Hiking and Biking: The surrounding area is dotted with trails suitable for hiking and biking. The Wallenpaupack Lake Trail offers an easy, scenic route along the lake, while more challenging trails can be found in nearby state parks.

Winter Activities: If you’re visiting in the winter, the Poconos transform into a snowy wonderland. Enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and tubing at nearby resorts, or try ice fishing on the frozen lake.

Local Attractions: Don’t miss out on local attractions like the Hawley Silk Mill, an impressive historic building now housing shops and galleries, or the Claws ‘N’ Paws Wild Animal Park, which is a hit with kids.

Packing Essentials

• Comfortable Clothing: Pack layers to adjust to varying temperatures.
• Outdoor Gear: Bring hiking boots, water bottles, and backpacks for your adventures.
• Swimwear: Don’t forget swimsuits for lake activities and the resort’s pool.
• Camera: Capture the beautiful scenery and memorable moments.

Travel Tips

• Reservations: Make reservations for activities and dining in advance, especially during peak seasons.
• Weather: Check the weather forecast and plan accordingly. (Be prepared the weather changes often!)
• Local Events: Look up local events happening during your stay to enhance your itinerary.

Safety

• Water Safety: Always wear life jackets during water activities.
• Trail Safety: Stick to marked trails and supervise children during hikes.

Hawley, PA, in the Pocono Mountains, offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure for families. With Silver Birches Resort as your base, you’ll enjoy the best of both worlds: a historic lakeside retreat and easy access to the area’s top attractions. From boating on Lake Wallenpaupack to exploring Bushkill Falls, this itinerary is packed with activities that will create lasting memories for everyone. Plan your trip today and discover why Hawley is a must-visit destination in Pennsylvania.

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