


How the town acquired his name, and the continuing dispute, is an interesting saga and one which you can learn more about at the town’s monument erected in his memory.įor bike rentals and shuttles, Pocono Biking has a range of rides, including tag-alongs and trailers for the kids. Raised as a Sac and Fox Indian, Thorpe’s native name, Wa-Tho-Huk, translates as “Bright Path,” which is a fitting moniker for the trail here, itself a shining path through a gem of a landscape. In 1953, the boroughs of Mauch Chunk and East Mauch Chunk joined and changed their collective names to Jim Thorpe, after the early 20th century’s celebrated Olympian and all-star athlete. Their suites have whirlpool tubs and fireplaces, and there’s also a spa. In the evening, you can sit on the veranda and sip a glass of wine. Situated in the midst of the historic district, it’s convenient for walking or biking to nearby attractions and restaurants. The Inn at Jim Thorpe, built in 1849, comes with its own ghost or two. The hamlet even made National Geographic’s list of 100 Best Adventure Towns in America.įly into Lehigh Valley International Airport near Allentown, Pa., and drive about 36 miles to Jim Thorpe, which is wedged in the Pocono Mountains on the banks of the Lehigh River.įor superb accommodations-from quaint to modest to elegant-your choices are many. Your base is Jim Thorpe, a National Historic District chock-a-block with boutiques, restaurants, antique shops and historical places of interest. There are no towns in between, so your job is to sail along on your bike, taking in the scenery and fresh mountain air. The entire route snakes along the Lehigh River, and waterfalls tumble from the rock cliffs above. The 26-mile Lehigh Valley Gorge Trail, part of the D & L Canal Trail in eastern Pennsylvania, slices a tantalizing path through a montage of forests, mountains and river valley.
