Pocono Mountains, PA

Fall into the Gap

Bushkill Falls, copyright
Bob Krist

It's not Katmandu. But for outdoor adventure without the jet lag, Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area can't be beat. River rats will love exploring more than 40 miles of waterway. Backcountry addicts can roam 70,000 acres of parkland on either side of the Delaware. And hikers have 25 miles of the famous Appalachian Trail to trek.

You can also go skiing or snowboarding at five area resorts. But don't fret about a slushy northeast winter -- all the resorts make their own snow. When the white stuff falls naturally, you can cross-country ski on marked trails. Or, if you like ice climbing, the mountains' sedimentary rock faces make great scaling material.

Once you've picked your sport du jour, send the grandparents on a scenic drive to Raymondskill Falls, Pennsylvania's highest waterfalls. They're a 10-minute walk from the parking lot (off Route 209).

Or direct them to Dingmans Falls, which can be seen via a half-mile boardwalk trail (also off Route 209). Warn them not to fall for any of the "attractions" on the way: The Pocono Indian Museum and Pocono Snake and Animal Farm are pricey, small, and feel like gift shops with museums attached.