Mar 16 - Mar 21, 2025
Pennsylvania
Choose Your Pace: A Hiking Adventure on the Appalachian Trail
Program No. 14629RJ
Hike a stretch of the Appalachian Trail in the Pocono Mountains at your own pace, explore trails each day and learn about the region’s history from a local historian and park ranger.
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800-454-5768
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Price will update based on selection
Prices displayed below are based on per person,doubleoccupancy.
DATES & PRICES
| No shuttle | Roundtrip airport transfer |
|---|---|
|
Excludes round-trip airport shuttle transfers to and from the program location. |
Includes round-trip airport shuttle transfers to and from the program location. |
Mar 30 - Apr 4, 2025
Apr 6 - Apr 11, 2025
Apr 27 - May 2, 2025
May 4 - May 9, 2025
Oct 12 - Oct 17, 2025
Nov 2 - Nov 7, 2025
Nov 16 - Nov 21, 2025
DATES & PRICES
| No shuttle | Roundtrip airport transfer |
|---|---|
|
Excludes round-trip airport shuttle transfers to and from the program location. |
Includes round-trip airport shuttle transfers to and from the program location. |
Mar 16 - Mar 21, 2025
Mar 30 - Apr 4, 2025
Apr 6 - Apr 11, 2025
Apr 27 - May 2, 2025
May 4 - May 9, 2025
Oct 12 - Oct 17, 2025
Nov 2 - Nov 7, 2025
Nov 16 - Nov 21, 2025
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This date is available to book as a private experience for your group!
6 days
5 nights
13 meals
5B 3L 5D
1
Check-in, Reception, Welcome Dinner, Orientation, Class
Shawnee on Delaware
2
Mt. Minsi Hikes, Historical Presentation
Shawnee on Delaware
3
Camp Mohican Morning & Afternoon Hikes, Evening Concert
Shawnee on Delaware
4
Naturalist Walk, Free Time, LNT Class, Animal Presentation
Shawnee on Delaware
5
Dunnfield Creek/Sunfish Pond Hikes, NPS Class
Shawnee on Delaware
6
Program Concludes
Shawnee on Delaware
At a Glance
Lace up your boots and discover a section of the Appalachian Trail in the Pocono Mountains — a stretch prized for its outstanding views. Pass through the picturesque Delaware Water Gap and follow rocky ridges a few thousand feet above sea level. On daily hikes chosen by level of challenge, learn trail orientation, hiking safety and the history and preservation of a national treasure while wrapped in nature's beauty and serenity.
Activity Level
Outdoor: Choose Your Pace
Each day, choose from multiple hiking options based on your desired level of challenge and pace, ranging from 3-10 miles on rocky terrain. Elevations of 500-1,200 feet.
Best of all, you’ll…
- Enjoy hikes led by experienced, knowledgeable experts on the renowned Appalachian Trail in Pennsylvania and New Jersey.
- Get acquainted with the environment of the Poconos on a walk with a local naturalist.
- Learn about the region from a local historian.
General Notes
Airport transfer at added cost. The Retreat Difference: This unique, often basic and no-frills experience at a Road Scholar Retreat includes opportunities for early morning exercise, interaction with the local community for insight into local life, an authentic farm-to-table or locally sourced meal and a live performance or event.
Featured Expert
All trip experts
Rick Koval
Rick Koval is a longtime resident of Luzerne County and a professional naturalist, consultant, wildlife photographer and award-winning outdoor writer. He was the director of land conservation for the North Branch Land Trust before becoming the head naturalist for Skytop Lodge in the Poconos. Rick is a local television personality as a naturalist on the popular show, “Pennsylvania Outdoor Life.” He is currently writing a book on the native orchids of the Poconos.
Please note: This expert may not be available for every date of this program.
Rick Koval
View biography
Rick Koval is a longtime resident of Luzerne County and a professional naturalist, consultant, wildlife photographer and award-winning outdoor writer. He was the director of land conservation for the North Branch Land Trust before becoming the head naturalist for Skytop Lodge in the Poconos. Rick is a local television personality as a naturalist on the popular show, “Pennsylvania Outdoor Life.” He is currently writing a book on the native orchids of the Poconos.
Midge McClosky
View biography
Midge McClosky is the cultural program director for the Shawnee Institute, executive director of the Shawnee Playhouse, and the artistic director of the Worthington Players. Before moving to Shawnee, Midge worked as a professional actress, singer, and dancer performing musical theatre in 49 of the 50 states. Her extensive credits cross over into film, television, commercials, voiceovers and live industrials. She and Chris, her husband of more than two decades, have two grown sons.
Suggested Reading List
(3 books)
Visit the Road Scholar Bookshop
You can find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
Choose Your Pace: A Hiking Adventure on the Appalachian Trail
Program Number: 14629
A WALK IN THE WOODS
Home in America after twenty years in Britain, Bill Bryson decided to reacquaint himself with his native country by walking the 2,100-mile Appalachian Trail, which stretches from Georgia to Maine. A gloriously out-of-shape friend named Stephen Katz is along for the walk. Katz's overwhelming desire is to find cozy restaurants, but he and Bryson eventually settle into their stride and enjoy their adventure. On the trail, they meet a bizarre assortment of hilarious characters, making for a laugh-out-loud hike.
But the book is more than that. Bryson's acute eye is a wise witness to this beautiful but fragile trail, with its astonishing landscape of silent forests and sparkling lakes. Bryson not only tells its fascinating history, but he also makes a moving plea for the conservation of America's last great wilderness. An adventure, a comedy, and a celebration, A WALK IN THE WOODS is destined to become a modern classic of travel literature.
Grandma Gatewood's Walk: The Inspiring Story of the Woman Who Saved the Appalachian Trail
Emma Gatewood was the first woman to hike the entire Appalachian Trail alone, as well as the first person—man or woman—to walk it twice and three times and she did it all after the age of 65. This is the first and only biography of Grandma Gatewood, as the reporters called her, who became a hiking celebrity in the 1950s and '60s. She appeared on TV with Groucho Marx and Art Linkletter, and on the pages of Sports Illustrated. The public attention she brought to the little-known footpath was unprecedented. Her vocal criticism of the lousy, difficult stretches led to bolstered maintenance, and very likely saved the trail from extinction. Author Ben Montgomery was given unprecedented access to Gatewood's own diaries, trail journals, and correspondence. He also unearthed historic newspaper and magazine articles and interviewed surviving family members and hikers Gatewood met along the trail. The inspiring story of Emma Gatewood illustrates the full power of human spirit and determination.
Hear the Challenge: Hike the Appalachian Trail
If you have even remotely considered hiking the length of the nearly 2,200-mile Appalachian Trail, then you’ve “heard the challenge.” The question now is…will you answer it? If you have been on the fence about doing a thru-hike, the job of this book is to gently nudge, possibly even shove you off that fence, into the direction of the Appalachian Trail. But, if your mind is already made up to embark on this once in a lifetime adventure, then prepare to have your confidence elevated to new heights. Knowledge is power and information is currency; I intend to make you powerfully rich, in regards to the Appalachian Trail, as you read through the contents of this book. The subjects of this work include, but are far from limited to… -Preparing your life for a thru-hike -Financial preparation -Mental preparation (what you bring within yourself is far more important than what you put in your pack). -Physical preparation (I’ve been a strength and conditioning specialist for nearly a decade). -Hiking with a dog (I’ve done the whole trail with one) -Insights and information into nearly every aspect of thru-hiking, as well as life on trail and much, much more. -Extensive information regarding gear and itemized lists of what this journey requires. -Insights into each state, as well as noteworthy regions and the obstacles/highlights they present. This book is not designed nor intended to be a “how to” or a “guidebook.” It is simply designed to present you with information while simultaneously inspiring the confidence to use that information in making decisions that are perfect for you. Want the full story of the author's AT hike? Check out amazon.com best seller; "Lost on the Appalachian Trail."
While we make every effort to ensure the accuracy of our published materials, programs are typically advertised more than a year prior to their start date. As a result, some program activities, schedules, accommodations, personnel, and other logistics occasionally change due to local conditions or circumstances. Should a major change occur, we will make every effort to alert you. For less significant changes, we will update you during orientation. Thank you for your understanding.
Duration
6 days
5 nights
What's Included
13 meals (
5B, 3L, 5D
)
11 expert-led lectures
5 expert-led field trips
1 hands-on experience
1 performance
An experienced Group Leader
5 nights of accommodations
Taxes and customary gratuity
Road Scholar Assurance Plan
Day
1
Check-in, Reception, Welcome Dinner, Orientation, Class
Location:
Shawnee on Delaware
Meals:
D
Stay:
Shawnee Inn and Golf Resort
Activity Note
Inn check-in from 4:30 p.m. Remember to bring your name-tag (sent previously).
Afternoon:
CHECK-IN: Hotel Room Check-in is available from 4:30 p.m. on. PROGRAM REGISTRATION: After you check in at the front desk and get settled into your room, join your fellow Road Scholars in the hospitality room to socialize until the Welcome Dinner begins. This is a Road Scholar Retreats program. Our programming at Retreat locations includes opportunities for light morning exercise, interaction with members of the local community, a farm-to-table meal, and evening entertainment. We will begin each day with an invigorating stretch session. Periods in the schedule designated as “Free time” and “At leisure” offer opportunities to do what you like and make your experience even more meaningful and memorable according to your personal preferences. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions. Program activities, schedules, personnel, and indicated distances or times may change due to local circumstances/conditions. In the event of changes, we will alert you as quickly as possible. Thank you for your understanding
Dinner:
At 7 p.m. we'll enjoy dinner at the Inn, where you'll have the opportunity to choose from a "American Home-style" themed buffet offering choices of salads and entrées (one of which will be vegetarian), plus vegetables, rice, potatoes, or pasta, fresh fruit, and coffee, tea (iced or hot), water; other beverages available for purchase.
Evening:
ORIENTATION: After dinner the Group Leader will greet everyone and lead introductions. We will review the program theme, the up-to-date Daily Schedule and any changes, discuss safety guidelines, emergency procedures, roles and responsibilities, and answer any questions you may have. CLASS: Next, we’ll have a class on hiking safety to prepare you for hiking on the Appalachian Trail, led by a trail expert. Following our Hiking Safety Class, we'll watch some video selections to see a glimpse onto the trails we will be hiking. This film clip captures the essence of this historic pathway, fascinating characters, beautiful scenery, and the small town America’s generosity of spirit Hikers will have the option of choosing between hikes of different levels of difficulty, organized into groups based on preference and ability. Indicated times are approximate.
Day
2
Mt. Minsi Hikes, Historical Presentation
Location:
Shawnee on Delaware
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Shawnee Inn and Golf Resort
Activity Note
Three hiking options to choose from in Pennsylvania on The Appalachian Trail for today: Moderate Hike: a 3 mile hike with plenty of rest stops. Elevation gain is up to 600 feet. Moderately Challenging Hike: a 4.5 mile hike with several rest stops and rocky terrain with an elevation gain of 900 feet. Challenging Hike: a 6.5 mile hike with rocky terrain, a faster pace with less rest stops and an elevation gain of over 900 feet.
Breakfast:
Breakfast will be in the Inn’s River Room restaurant. Enjoy your choice of hot and/or cold breakfast selections from fruit to home-made granola, pancakes or French toast, a variety of breakfast meats, an omelet station, and more. Before we depart for the trails, we'll make our own lunches at the Inn. A variety of breads, cheeses, meats, condiments, fruit, snacks and drinks will be available.
Morning:
After a morning stretch our hikers will have the option of choosing between hikes of different levels of difficulty, organized into groups based on preference and ability. You can choose a 3, 4.5 or 6.5 plus mile hike, all offering beautiful views on The Appalachian Trail. Today we'll hike Mt. Minsi as an introduction to hiking on The Appalachian Trail. Our first hike will help you determine your comfort level hiking on the rocky terrain.
Lunch:
We’ll stop at a scenic spot along the trail to have the lunches we made for ourselves this morning.
Afternoon:
We will continue our hikes, with the leader pointing out unique aspects of the local environment.
Dinner:
We'll enjoy dinner at the Inn, where you'll have the opportunity to enjoy our "Italian" themed buffet offering choices of salads and entrées (one of which will be vegetarian), plus vegetables, rice, potatoes, or pasta, fresh fruit, and coffee, tea (iced or hot), water; other beverages available for purchase.
Evening:
We’ll gather for a historical presentation called "The River's Edge" about the local history. This lecture features fascinating stories and hundreds of historical photographs led by a local expert.
Day
3
Camp Mohican Morning & Afternoon Hikes, Evening Concert
Location:
Shawnee on Delaware
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Shawnee Inn and Golf Resort
Activity Note
We begin to explore New Jersey's section of the AT. The Moderate Hike will be a 3 mile hike with plenty of rest stops and similar terrain to yesterday's hike. Today's Moderately Challenging and Challenging Hikes will once again experience rocky terrain and gains of over 900 feet in elevation. The challenging hike will move at a faster pace, the 6 mile hike will be at a moderate pace.
Breakfast:
Breakfast will be in the Inn’s River Room restaurant. Enjoy your choice of hot and/or cold breakfast selections from fruit to home-made granola, pancakes or French toast, a variety of breakfast meats, an omelet station, and more. Before we depart for the trails, we'll make our own lunches at the Inn. A variety of breads, cheeses, meats, condiments, fruit, snacks and drinks will be available.
Morning:
Hikers will have the option of choosing between hikes of different levels of difficulty, organized into groups based on preference and ability. You can choose a 3, 6.8 or 9.5 mile hike, all offering beautiful views. Today, after our morning stretch, we all start at Camp Mohican and hike along The Appalachian Trail with our expert guides to a variety of beautiful views and destinations. The Moderate Hike will start at a popular AT crossroad. The Moderately Challenging Hike will head south on the AT to Raccoon Ridge, which has a 360 degree view! The Challenging Hike will head North on the AT to enjoy glorious views of New Jersey and New York on the way to Crater Lake.
Lunch:
We’ll stop at a scenic spot along the trail to have the lunches we made for ourselves this morning.
Afternoon:
We will continue our hikes, with the leader pointing out fascinating aspects of the local environment.
Dinner:
Inn buffet. Tonight's Farm to Table meal will be presented by our Executive Chef.
Evening:
The Shawnee Institute concert series, open to the public, presents a variety of performing groups throughout the year. In tonight’s concert, we’ll hear local musicians. This is a great opportunity for community engagement with the audience member and performers!
Day
4
Naturalist Walk, Free Time, LNT Class, Animal Presentation
Location:
Shawnee on Delaware
Meals:
B,D
Stay:
Shawnee Inn and Golf Resort
Activity Note
Today's hike will be a nature walk for all. This hike will be 3 miles and offer moderately rocky terrain, elevation under 500 feet and a slower "learning" pace.
Breakfast:
Breakfast will be in the Inn’s River Room restaurant. Enjoy your choice of hot and/or cold breakfast selections from fruit to home-made granola, pancakes or French toast, a variety of breakfast meats, an omelet station, and more.
Morning:
We will begin the day with an invigorating stretch. Led by a biology professor/naturalist, this morning features a 3 mile nature walk around Lake Lenape and into the town of Delaware Water Gap, which is a thru-hiker favorite stop. On our scenic nature walk, we'll learn about edible vegetation, geology, wildlife and exquisite plant life, while observing ecosystems.
Lunch:
This meal has been excluded from the program cost and is on your own to enjoy what you like. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions and give directions.
Afternoon:
Free Afternoon. Take this opportunity for personal independent exploration to see and do what interests you most. Please refer to the list of Free Time Opportunities. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions and give directions. Late afternoon, join us for a 30 minute, interactive presentation about our commitment to "Leave No Trace" led by a local expert. Completion of this course qualifies you for certification in the program. The Shawnee Inn and Golf Resort has many offerings, such as a Spa, Watercraft and Bicycle rentals, a Pontoon Boat Ride and productions at The Shawnee Playhouse. The concierge and group leader can both assist you in finalizing these plans.
Dinner:
We'll enjoy dinner at the Inn, where you'll have the opportunity to choose from a "Mexican" themed buffet offering choices of salads and entrées (one of which will be vegetarian), plus coffee, tea (iced or hot), water; other beverages available for purchase.
Evening:
Join us for a LIVE animal presentation with Kathy Uhler, director of The Pocono Wildlife Rehabilitation and Education Center! Gain insight to animal senses and the physical adaptations that allow them to survive. The Pocono Wildlife Rehabilitation and Education Center was founded in 1983 and incorporated as a nonprofit organization in 1988. Licensed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the Pennsylvania Game Commission, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the PWRC serves Monroe, Lehigh, Northampton, Wayne, Pike and Luzerne Counties. The facility takes in more than 2,400 animals annually including fawns, owls, hawks, falcons, eagles, squirrels, rabbits, songbirds, foxes raccoons, and bears.
Day
5
Dunnfield Creek/Sunfish Pond Hikes, NPS Class
Location:
Shawnee on Delaware
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Shawnee Inn and Golf Resort
Activity Note
Today we'll offer 3 hiking groups: 3, 7 and 10 miles. The Moderate Hike will be 3 miles with a moderate gain. The Moderately Challenging Hike will be 7 miles with rocky terrain and 1000 feet of elevation gain, and the Challenging Hike will be 10 miles with rocky terrain and 1000 feet of elevation gain. Both the 7 and 10 mile hikes will visit the popular AT destination; Sunfish Pond.
Breakfast:
Breakfast will be in the Inn’s River Room restaurant. Enjoy your choice of hot and/or cold breakfast selections from fruit to home-made granola, pancakes or French toast, a variety of breakfast meats, an omelet station, and more. Before we depart for the trails, we'll make our own lunches at the Inn. A variety of breads, cheeses, meats, condiments, fruit, snacks and drinks will be available.
Morning:
Today is our last adventure as a group on The Appalachian Trail. Once again, after our morning stretch, you’ll have the option of breaking into one of three groups based on your preference: 3, 7 or 10 miles. Those venturing out on the 3 mile hike will be along part of the Dunnfield Creek Trail. The trail runs along the Dunnfield Creek which is a designated Wild Trout Stream, supporting a healthy population of native brook trout. The trail follows the stream through a mature hemlock and mixed hardwood ravine with numerous small cascades along the way. Those opting for the 7 or 10 mile hikes will venture to Sunfish Pond, a glacially carved lake and a highlight to the AT. It's a great sense of accomplishment reaching Sunfish Pond and usually a good opportunity to run into some thru-hikers along the way.
Lunch:
We’ll stop at a scenic spot along the trail to have the lunches we made for ourselves this morning.
Afternoon:
After lunch we'll wrap up our hike and return to the Inn for some down time before dinner.
Dinner:
Our farewell dinner will be extra special! Enjoy a lovely evening with new Road Scholar friends.
Evening:
We’ll gather for a presentation by a ranger from the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area. Program concludes after class.
Day
6
Program Concludes
Location:
Shawnee on Delaware
Meals:
B
Activity Note
Check-out is by 11:00 a.m.
Breakfast:
Breakfast will be in the Inn’s River Room restaurant. Enjoy your choice of hot and/or cold breakfast selections from fruit to home-made granola, pancakes or French toast, a variety of breakfast meats, an omelet station, and more.
Morning:
After breakfast, the program will conclude. Checkout of rooms is by 11 a.m. We hope you have enjoyed your Road Scholar learning adventure and look forward to having you on rewarding programs in the future. Please join our Facebook page and share photos of your program. Visit us at www.facebook.com/rsadventures. Best wishes for all your journeys!
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MEALS
13 Meals
5 Breakfasts
3 Lunches
5 Dinners
LODGING
Lodgings may differ by date. Select a date to see the lodgings specific to that date.
Showing Lodging For:
- Nov 16, 2025 - Nov 21, 2025
- Mar 16, 2025 - Mar 21, 2025
- Mar 30, 2025 - Apr 04, 2025
- Apr 06, 2025 - Apr 11, 2025
- Apr 27, 2025 - May 02, 2025
- May 04, 2025 - May 09, 2025
- Oct 12, 2025 - Oct 17, 2025
- Nov 02, 2025 - Nov 07, 2025
- Nov 16, 2025 - Nov 21, 2025
Participant Reviews
Based on 57 Reviews
Sort By:
This was a fun program. You don't have to be an accomplished hiker in order to enjoy the hikes. People of many skill levels joined the program and enriched my enjoyment.
— Review left November 25, 2024
This is a HIKING program and very well done. The trails are rocky but doable, the pace selections are great and varied but you will be walking a lot for three days. Road Scholar has nailed the evening presentations and presenters; most enjoyable. Know that the Shawnee is an historic hotel; it’s more than adequate but not a roomy five star. Bathrooms en-suite were retro fitted; you have a step up to get in there. Bring a reading light if you plan to read books in the bed. This is a wonderful outdoor oriented trip. We learned a ton about the geography, geology and history in the area. Highly recommend.
— Review left November 23, 2024
This was a fun experience and I was happy that I particiapated. It was fun to be able to complete all the hiking trips. So good to be out in the woods.
— Review left November 22, 2024
Well run hiking adventure for all fitness types
— Review left November 22, 2024
Rocks aplenty ! Be ready to use your poles to navigate every step - you will be looking down alot. After the first master hike my iphone measured equal to 87 flights of stairs ! Beautiful country.
— Review left November 9, 2024
Fabulous hikes, spectacular knowledgeable guides, wonderful location at the Shawnee Inn. Shawnee and staff were friendly, outgoing and catered to us if we had questions or needed something i.e. extra blankets. This group of leaders and the women who participated were fabulous, and I plan to keep in touch with many of them. Thank you for the bottom of my heart for her wonderful, challenging, spectacular experience.!!!
— Review left November 2, 2024
Great experience hiking with other women.
— Review left November 1, 2024
Very much enjoyed hiking in the Poconos, and especially like the "Choose Your Pace" format. People moved between levels throughout the week depending on how they were feeling on a given day. Just be aware that NONE of the hikes are "easy", they are all rocky and involve elevation gain, some are just longer and have more elevation gain than others. The guides were great!
— Review left September 30, 2024
Lovely accommodations, beautiful setting, and great choices for levels of hiking. Just be aware that the "Advanced" trail choices are not just rocky...they are rocky for 99% of the trail. Which means your feet will not get much of a rest:)
— Review left September 27, 2024
My Wife's hiking group decided to take this program as a group (approximately 27 people including spouses) and overall it was a fabulous time not only for the
"choose your pace" hiking, but for the time spent with the group. The historic Shawnee Inn was just as expected - not the fully modern cookie cutter hotel, but a fine, well kept property with a rich history. The staff were excellent and you could tell they were hired from the heart and really cared about our experience. The program leader, Midge worked tireless with our group coordinator and accommodated every request. The hiking guides (a lead and and sweep for each level each day) were delightful, knowledgable, experienced and fun to be around. The food was good and the last night supper by Joseph was way over the top down to the beautiful table decorations.
It was a true adventure experiencing the trail sections they picked.
— Review left June 22, 2024
Quite the adventure! I loved the long, technical hikes with great hiking companions. Meeting thru-hikers was interesting. Seeing a Timber Rattler and a black bears was a plus!
— Review left May 19, 2024
If you are questioning whether you should sign up for this program or if you will be able to keep up with others that sign up, just DO IT!!! You will be pleasantly surprised, you will have a fantastic time, and meet great people!!
— Review left May 18, 2024
Loved hiking in Eastern PA rocky wooded trails - PA & NJ; Great to have daily options on length of hikes and wonderful guides. Lectures excellent about wildlife, plants and trees from naturalist on hike and food superb! Highly recommend to anyone who loves to hike!
— Review left May 17, 2024
Fun, glad to be completed safetly
— Review left May 11, 2024
This AT hiking trip was well organized and had suffient knowledgeable guides (at least 2 each) for the 3 levels levels of hiking. The entire group did essentially the same hike on the first day and our hiking skills were evaluated by our guides. As hikers, we got to experience the terrain on this rocky section of the AT and adjust our expectations accordingly to move among the hike levels that day. This was an excellent approach. On the second day and beyond, one needed to stay in the selected group level because the destinations/routes were different. I started and stayed in the longer hike group the first day, dropped to medium on the 2nd hike day, then did the shorter (but beautiful) hike on the final hike day. This was early November and leaves covering the trails made it hard to see the rocks--a lot of balance (even with poles) was required at times. This "choose your pace" hike was sufficiently challenging for me at all levels due to the terrain (and I've hiked rocky desert washes, etc.) On the first hike, one hiker's boot sole came loose on their trusty old pair of hiking boots--guides quickly duct-taped it back on until a new pair could be purchased later in town. We had a great group of hikers as well as wonderful leaders, sweeps, and van drivers. The historic Shawnee Resort was lovely and comfortable.
— Review left April 26, 2024
Had a wonderful hiking adventure in the Appalachian Mountains with well informed guides and a well versed trip leader. Teresa Dubovich
— Review left April 20, 2024
Excellent trip, hikes and accommodations. I highly recommend.
— Review left March 20, 2024
Wonderful program that allowed me to complete a life-long goal safely and encouraged me to continue to pursue my outdoor dreams.
— Review left November 24, 2023
This program will assist you in fulfilling your desire to hike the Appalachian trail as well as others. You will challenge yourself and learn while being in nature. I recommend this program for anyone interested in expanding their hiking knowledge as well as their self esteem.
— Review left November 12, 2023
I highly recommend this program! The hikes are all beautiful, and the guides are knowledgeable and supportive. Detailed information is provided so you can decide which hike is right for you each day. Most of the trailheads are nearby, so you spend more time hiking and less time riding; there is ample free time as well. The trails ARE rocky, so you need to be prepared for that. The views and the streams are worth the extra effort. Learning about the Appalachian Trail is another big plus.
— Review left November 10, 2023
Great program that I would highly recommend. Being able to pick your level each day is a benefit and removes pressure to go beyond your capability allowing a more enjoyable experience.
— Review left November 5, 2023
This program was wonderful! The people I met, the hikes we went on were absolutely incredible. I would definitely recommend this program to others who like to hike and enjoy being with great people.
— Review left September 18, 2023
Discover the natural beauty of the Poconos and and challenges of the Appalachian Trail with a variety of day hikes and activities, based at a lovely resort on the Delaware River.
— Review left June 2, 2023
Beautiful woods hiking and a real taste of the Appalachian Trail. Many in our group were unprepared for the rigor of these hikes—I’m used to steep rocky hikes so it wasn’t a problem for me, but many people in our session chose shorter hikes than they had been planning to take. The Shawnee Inn is charming, historic and friendly and I felt very comfortable—but it is definitely a bit worn, and not particularly soundproof!
— Review left June 2, 2023
Although I’m a hiking newbie, I’m happy that I joined this program. The self-paced format allowed me to decide which trails fit my comfort level. I can honestly say that I learned that I’m stronger physically and mentally that I knew. I also know I’ll seek other Road Scholar experiences in the future.
— Review left April 10, 2023
This trip was fantastic! I always felt taken care of, even though I never needed any individual attention. The hiking was challenging, but extra efforts were taken to accommodate everyone's hiking abilities. The trip leader, Midge, was extraordinary and all of the hiking group leaders were awesome too. Even though we had some not-so-perfect weather, I loved everything about this trip. I would consider doing it again in a few years.
— Review left December 16, 2022
I enjoyed this program, going a bit past my comfort zone and learning new things about the Appalachian Trail.
— Review left November 17, 2022
Remnants of Hurricane Ian did not dampen our spirits at all for those who joined us for hiking throughout the spectacular scenery of the Poconos. Interesting folks from across the country, knowledgeable trail guides, good food and an historic and beautiful resort added up to an awesome week with Road Scholar once again.
— Review left October 17, 2022
This was my first Road Scholar trip and based on my overall experience I plan to attend more! Choose your pace description was exactly as advertised. The coordinator and guides were excellent.
— Review left October 9, 2022
I was the slowest of the hikers, the group never made me feel slow and the sweep hiking guide was always encouraging. The area was more strenuous than I envisioned but I was able to complete my hikes. Yah for me!
— Review left October 8, 2022
This has been an awesome experience. I feel empowered to reach my full potential.
— Review left October 7, 2022
While staff is great, lodge amazing, CAUTION: this is NOT a trip for inexperienced, senior hikers. Hikes more on the level of the one with grandkids (we don't have any) would have been more appropriate for us. Much, much harder hikes than the NY AT trip hikes we took with Road Scholar last year.
— Review left September 24, 2022
This was my first foray into organized hiking in a rough terrain. I chose the program for 2 reasons: 1. To get over my anxiety to be around strangers - as I had carefully managed my activities till then due to Covid; 2. To decide for myself how much of a challenge I could handle as I am hoping to go on more hikes in the future.
— Review left August 13, 2022
I loved this program, but also did my best to prepare in advance. I went on regular hikes beforehand, and made sure to vary length and altitude changes. I had no trouble keeping up with the "middle" difficulty level.
— Review left July 18, 2022
I thoroughly enjoyed this program. However, be prepared! Rocky terrain ahead! Unlike most hikes I’ve been on, the paths were very rough and uneven- surprise(!) welcome to Rocksylvania. Do yourself a favor and incorporate lots of stairs (up and down!) and balance exercises in your daily routine to prepare for this program. That said, you’ll have a great time and feel like a true Through- Hiker.
— Review left July 16, 2022
I thoroughly enjoyed my first RS trip! Connected with some great people. Had some downtime to enjoy on my own. Staff were friendly and helpful. Saw things I would never have seen on my own. Our accommodations were good. Their food service was a little disorganized. Staffing maybe. Overall, great trip and I will plan on doing another.
— Review left July 16, 2022
User friendly
— Review left July 11, 2022
This was my 14th Road Scholar trip and one of the best!! The Shawnee Inn is a fabulous resort, the food was excellent and the inn offered activities in addition to those included in Road Scholar. I even got to do archery! The group leader Midge was outstanding! Knowledgeable, enthusiastic, flexible, fantastic! The hikes were varied and of course having the option of 3 different hikes each day was great! Lots of fun evening activities. Many of the hikes are extremely rocky, just a heads up. I STRONGLY recommend this trip.
— Review left May 22, 2022
A wonderful first experience with Road Scholars, Pick Your Pace Hiking on the Appalachian Trail in the Poconos (PA and NJ) with fellow hikers from across the country. Lovely venue (Shawnee Inn and Golf Resort) with lots of amenities to enjoy. Day hiking along rocky trails with great guides and wonderful views of the area, including waterfalls and glacial lakes. Definitely worth the time enjoying the AT with new friends.
— Review left May 13, 2022
a fabulous hike at your own pace program in a unique and historic setting
— Review left May 10, 2022
This trip is excellent! The "choose your own pace" appealed to me and I was happy to be able to choose my level of hiking on the morning of each hiking day. Our group leader, Midge, was amazing! Her attention to each detail, enthusiasm, warmth, organizational skills and ability to make it all appear seamless are outstanding. The camaraderie in our large group (we split into three smaller groups for our hikes) was wonderful. The location and food were all excellent. It was my first time in the Poconos Mountains, and I highly recommend this trip.
— Review left April 30, 2022
I participated in the Road Scholar's "Pick Your Own Pace: Hike the Appalachian Trail". I highly recommend it for the adventure, comradery, price, great food and leadership!
— Review left November 23, 2021
This is a really good hiking break. The levels of hikes offered are suitable for occasional hikers or regular walkers ready for an outdoor experience - albeit with rocky terrain and some elevation but really different levels so suitable for regularly active people. The more demanding hikes are challenging enough for most active regular hikers too. The Shawnee Inn is very nice and friendly and the food is very good. It is a. resort so there are other activities including an indoor pool and golf - tennis courts and it is on the Delaware River - very pretty.
— Review left November 6, 2021
I really enjoyed this program. The location is perfect for hiking on the beautiful trails of the AT in Pennsylvania and New Jersey. Midge was an excellent organizer, all of the leaders were personable and knowledgeable and my fellow hikers were lovely companions. The food was plentiful and tasty. I would definitely recommend this hiking adventure.
— Review left November 5, 2021
No matter your hiking experience or skill, you'll enjoy this program. Just be prepared for lots of ROCKS on the trail.
— Review left November 1, 2021
This is a great website for exploring trips that get some of us out of our comfort zone, and making it easy to understand while answering most questions.
— Review left October 29, 2021
Be prepared for rocky hikes. This was the most challenging of the RS hiking trips I have done. In late October we had to contend with lots of wet leaves and rocks. Good hiking boots and poles are a must. The Shawnee Inn was comfortable and convenient for the hiking.
If you have a non-hiking friend or partner who you like to travel with, this is a trip to consider. There are plenty of things to do at the Shawnee Inn. We had a day of hiking canceled due to extreme rainfall. The site coordinator assembled a very nice alternative schedule. This included a yoga class, brewery tour and a wonderful wildlife demonstration.
— Review left October 29, 2021
The friendly and knowledgeable hiking guides helped us accomplish things we never knew we could do. Some of the hiking was quite technical and challenging. The history of the Shawnee Inn and the area was fascinating to some old golfers like us.
— Review left October 16, 2021
The hikes were challenging on rocky terrain but overall it was a positive experience. The views at our stopping points were beautiful and the weather was perfect for hiking. Midge was great at organizing our activities and our guides were wonderful. I enjoyed meeting participants from all over the country and hearing about other trips they'd taken. We were kept busy but there was plenty of time to relax (and recover) as well. Meals were buffet style with plenty of options. I used the free afternoon to kayak on the Delaware River.
— Review left October 5, 2021
This was my ‘introduction’ to the Appalachian Trail and to the Road Scholar organization. I will definitely hike the AT again and would recommend Road Scholar to anyone wanting a fun trip where the logistics and details are done for you. Thank you for bringing people together for new experiences!
— Review left October 4, 2021
The different options for length/difficulty of hikes made this trip doable for a wide variety of participants. I definitely plan on taking another Road Scholar "Pick Your Pace" hiking trip again.
— Review left November 17, 2019
Delightful historic Inn on the banks of the Delaware River only adds to the wonderful adventure of exploring the rugged hills of Pennsylvania.
— Review left October 21, 2019
Getting to experience the Appalachian Trail has been a lifelong dream. I did not make it happen in younger years, being caught up with family, career & other responsibilities. But Road Scholar made this dream real by providing this experience of the AT to a greenhorn like me so late in life. I will always be grateful to you!
— Review left September 27, 2019
This was my 7th Road Scholar trip and I was not disappointed. Meeting people in their 70’s and 80’s who are still hiking and biking is always inspiring. My husband and I look forward to many more adventures with the Road Scholars
— Review left September 20, 2019
This is a super hiking program, but there are MANY ROCKS on the trails. Rocks, rocks, rocks. (Did I mention the rocks?) I chose the "moderately challenging" hikes (middle range, 5 to 7 miles) and was very satisfied with the experience. Some participants were extremely challenged by the rocks and by the occasional steep climbs. I'd advise people considering this program to bring good quality hiking shoes, a sturdy pack with hydration option if possible, and a strong desire to push yourself to greater personal accomplishment. Hiking the Appalachian Trail in PA allowed me to enjoy the environmental splendor of the stunning Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area. I highly recommend this program.
— Review left July 19, 2019
Beautiful setting. I like the option to choose how challenging you are up to from day to day.
— Review left June 27, 2019
Very nice program. Trail leaders Brian, Len and Ken, are super, as well as Midge, the program coordinator. Rick, the environmentalist, surely knows his environment. Thank you, all.
— Review left June 7, 2019
