Local Transportation: Pocono Mountains

Public Transportation: Limited Options

The Monroe County Transit Authority (MCTA) operates public bus services in the most populated part of the Poconos, Monroe County. The system is relatively small and does not extend to all counties within the broader Pocono Mountains region. Its routes mainly cover urbanized corridors, not the dispersed attractions or rural areas.

Stroudsburg serves as the most significant hub for MCTA bus services. Many routes originate or pass through Stroudsburg. If you are staying in this immediate area and plan to only visit local points, MCTA might be an option. Most MCTA buses accept cash fares, often requiring exact change.

Public Transit Features

Main provider: Monroe County Transit Authority (MCTA).
Fixed routes in Monroe County, connecting Stroudsburg, East Stroudsburg, Mt. Pocono.
Limited hours (weekdays, early morning to late afternoon/early evening); very limited weekend service.
Low fares, typically $1.50 to $3.00 per ride. Multi-ride passes are an option.

Route Maps & Hubs

The official MCTA website has current route maps and schedules. Stroudsburg is the most significant hub.

Ticketing & Fares

Cash fares (exact change often needed). Multi-ride or weekly passes offer slight discounts for frequent use.

Accessibility Information

MCTA buses are generally wheelchair accessible, with ramps or lifts and designated seating areas.

Tips for Navigating Public Transport

Planning & Expectations

Not a main option for most tourists unless confined to one town.
Always check the most current schedules on the MCTA website before your trip.
Factor in ample time for travel and potential delays due to low frequency.

Alternatives to Consider

For most tourist activities, a personal vehicle is a more practical and time-efficient choice.
Taxi/Rideshare services offer greater flexibility than fixed bus routes.
A rental car is almost always the chosen way to travel for freedom of exploration.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing: On-Demand Transportation

Taxi Hailing

Best to call local taxi companies; street hailing is uncommon.

Ride-Sharing Apps

Uber & Lyft operate in larger towns/resorts; driver availability varies.

Cost & Payment

Taxis: metered/agreed fare (cash). Rideshare: app-processed. Both can be expensive for long trips.

Safety Tips

Confirm taxi identification or match app details for rideshare. Share trip info.

Rental Options: Cars, Bikes, and More

Renting a vehicle, especially a car, offers the highest degree of freedom and is the most practical way to explore the Poconos.

Car Rental Requirements

Valid U.S. Driver's License or IDP + domestic license for international visitors.
Major credit card in renter's name for deposit and payment.
Minimum age usually 21, with young driver surcharge for under 25.
Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak seasons.

Driving Laws & Road Conditions

Drive on the right; seatbelts mandatory; obey speed limits.
Major routes are good; rural roads are winding. Winter roads may be snow/ice covered.
Wildlife: Deer are prevalent; drive cautiously, especially at dawn/dusk.
Cell service can be spotty in remote areas; offline maps are helpful.

Bike & Specialty Rentals

Motorcycle & scooter rentals are very limited or non-existent.
No widespread public bicycle sharing programs.
Some resorts or outdoor outfitters offer Bike rentals for specific trails (e.g., D&L Trail).

Mountain bike rentals exist at some ski resorts during summer.
Always wear a helmet when cycling; obey traffic laws on roads.
Specialty vehicle options like tuk-tuks are not a feature.

Parking Information

General Parking

Generally, ample free parking is available at attractions, resorts, state parks, and most shopping centers.

Town Centers

Metered parking may be found in downtown areas of larger towns like Stroudsburg or Jim Thorpe. Bring quarters or use parking apps.

Jim Thorpe Parking

Parking in Jim Thorpe can be challenging and expensive, especially on weekends; arrive early.

Walking & Cycling: Exploring on Foot or Two Wheels

For those who enjoy active exploration, the Poconos display many opportunities for walking and cycling, especially within its natural areas and charming towns.

Pedestrian-Friendly Areas

Small town centers like Stroudsburg (Main Street), Jim Thorpe (Broadway), and Hawley have pedestrian-friendly sidewalks.
These areas make for pleasant strolls through shops and historic areas.
State parks and natural areas offer extensive walking and hiking trails of varying difficulties.
Some lakes feature scenic walking paths along their shores.

Walking Tour Options & Safety

Self-guided historical walking tours are popular in Jim Thorpe.
Brochures are often available at the visitor center for historical context.
No specific "no-go" areas exist; use common sense.
Avoid walking on busy highways without sidewalks or unlit rural roads after dark.

Bicycle Infrastructure & Safety

Dedicated Bike Trails

The Poconos feature excellent dedicated bike trails, often converted from old railroad beds, like sections of the Delaware & Lehigh National Heritage Corridor (D&L Trail).

Suitable for all levels.

Lehigh Gorge State Park

A specifically popular section of the D&L Trail, offering a downhill ride through a dramatic gorge with waterfalls.

Scenic and accessible.

Road Cycling Safety

Road cycling is popular on rural roads, but riders should exercise caution as shoulders can be narrow or non-existent. Always wear a helmet and use reflective gear.

Helmet always!

Specialized Transportation Options

Tour Buses & Water Transport

Some local tour companies offer bus tours for specific attractions (e.g., fall foliage, winery tours).
Hop-on-Hop-off services are not common due to dispersed attractions.
Boat taxis/water transportation are recreational (scenic cruises, rentals), not for point-to-point travel.

Unique Local & Accessibility Services

Cable cars, funiculars, or unique local transport are not features of the Poconos.
Ski resorts have chairlifts for summer scenic rides or mountain biking.
Newer facilities and resorts align with ADA standards. MCTA buses are accessible.

Important Travel Notes

For Rideshare

Always check the estimated wait time before requesting a ride, as it can be substantial in less populated areas.
Confirm license plate, car make/model, and driver's photo match in the app.
Avoid unofficial drivers or those soliciting rides outside the app.

General Recommendations

For most, a rental car is the freedom you seek for full exploration.
Private tour operators may offer accessible vehicles if booked in advance.
Contact individual attractions/resorts directly for specific accessibility features.

Transportation Insight

Careful planning is advised if you intend to travel without a personal vehicle.

For the freedom to explore all the Poconos offers, renting a car is almost always the chosen way to travel.

Local Transportation