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Archives for May 2021

Woodloch Summer 2021: Sneak Peak!

Woodloch’s Blog

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Woodloch Summer 2021: A Sneak Peak!

Ahh, the smell of freshly cut grass. That first whiff of delicious barbecue foods winding through the neighborhood. The gentle crash of waves at your favorite beach, lake or watering hole. The sweet songs of roosting birds as the sun heads over the hills for the night. 

All of these things remind us that the bitter cold days of winter are in the rearview mirror, and that wonderful season of summer has finally arrived.

In 2021, all of this renewal comes with a greater appreciation for these sorts of things in life. After a year which none of us could have possibly predicted or foreseen, we are finally able to start gathering with friends and loved ones the way we were so accustomed to- but with a fresh appreciation for all that we have.  

Having said that, Woodloch is very excited to be kicking off into a new season in 2021! While we are very heavy on the concept of tradition, we are always “back in the lab” creating new and exciting ways to celebrate the reunion of family and friends! Here is just a little sneak peak at some new events that will be headed your way this upcoming summer!

THE KEYSTONE GAMES

We have a special place in our hearts for the incredible state of Pennsylvania- it is HOME, of course! From Philly to Pittsburgh, from the farmlands to the mountains, our state is full of character! With that in mind, we thought we’d take the opportunity to write a “love letter” to the Keystone State in the form of this summer’s field day games!

We cordially invite our guests this summer to band up with friends and family to tackle 6 new events and relay-style challenges, all in the pursuit of that oh-so-coveted Woodloch gold medal (or, at least a lot of fun trying)! 

EVENTS INCLUDE: 

  • “The Happy Valley QB Experience” – 
  • “Hershey Candy Scramble”- 
  • “Rocky Balboa’s Punchout”
  • “The Turnpike Toss”
  • “Milk The Cow”
  • “The Office Olympics”

All teammates, no matter how big or small, can contribute to your team’s success! Don’t miss out!

COOKOUT & CARNIVAL

When the grills get fired up, you KNOW things are about to get real!

Our traditional summer cookout has been a fan-favorite for all of our guests for over 40 years. With a little help from the sunshine, our front lawn becomes the perfect place to settle in for one of the best BBQ’s around!

Summer favorites abound! Angus burgers, all-beef franks with all the fixings, fresh corn on the cob, steamed clams, baby back ribs, grilled chicken, wraps and so much more will fill a plate or two as you dine under the summer sun. Don’t forget to save some room for watermelon and our famous ice cream sandwiches- they are not to be missed!

Hand in hand with our summer cookouts is an all-new family friendly carnival! Our theme of Pennsylvania carries over into our midway style event. Each visitor gets 10 free tickets to try their luck on all sorts of games of skill and chance, this time chasing down special edition Woodloch prizes! Games range from simple to tricky, but all ages will find something that is just their speed.

Games include:

“Shoe Fly Pie” launch
“The Liberty Bell” putting challenge
“The Philly Phanatic” baseball roll
“Groundhog Day” Plinko
“The Crayola Challenge”
“Pocono Raceway”
“Name That Tune”
And so much more!

THE BOYS ARE BACK

Even after a long day of all sorts of fun in the sun, the good times roll right into those wonderful summer nights! This summer, Woodloch is paying homage to lots of fond summer memories of millennials, gen z’s and yes, even the boomers with the upbeat sounds of LARGER THAN LIFE, a boy band tribute spectacular!

Larger Than Life is “the ultimate boyband tribute.” This is the only act of its kind featuring actual singing, dancing, and costumes. Larger Than Life will take you back in time with the biggest 90s Party since the Backstreet Boys shut down Times Square.

Performing over 40 Boyband songs by the Backstreet Boys, NSYNC, New Kids On The Block, 98 Degrees, O-Town, Boyz II Men, LFO, One Direction and many more! And for extra fun, the boys take us even way back with hits by The Jackson 5, Temptations, Four Seasons, and other classic male groups truly making this The Ultimate Boyband Tribute! 

THE GREAT ESCAPE

Do you fancy yourself clever? Prove it to us by making it through our all-new escape room, “If I Only Had A Brain!”

That’s right, this summer we’ll be headed somewhere over the rainbow for a brand new labyrinth of challenges down the yellow brick road as we try to find our way to the wonderful wizard! Beware of lions, tigers and bears (oh my) and of course, that wicked witch! Make it back home by the time your clock expires to claim victory!

AND MORE…

Though we love to keep things fresh, some summer favorites are just too much fun to not bring back! Events like our famous Pool Games, Olympics, Scavenger Hunt and Family Double Dare will be revitalized with all new challenges! Our team is hard at work at all sorts of great trivia contests and medal events, plus new and returning family-friendly acts will take the stage in our Nightclub all season long. It’s going to be a terrific summer to visit!

Filed Under: Summer Tagged With:

A Mother’s Love

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A Mother’s Love: Remembering Woodloch’s Matriarchs

“All that I am, or hope to be, I owe to my angel mother.”

-Abraham Lincoln

I’ve been looking at a lot of family photos recently.

More specifically, I’ve been digitally scanning, restoring and cataloguing thousands of family photos lately. A daunting task, but one that has certainly brought its fair share of rewards.

As I view and mentally absorb these memories, I can’t help but feel an appreciation for my parents for what they’ve done for me and my siblings (all six of us!) throughout my life. Even when they had very humble beginnings, it’s astonishing to take note of all that they worked for and all of their own pursuits they cast aside in order to give their children a better life. Every birthday party, every assist in a late-night school project, every little excursion or family trip… they were certainly labors of love.

This is the time of year where we all take an extra day (though it’s certainly not enough time) to tell both mom and dad all that they mean to us. We’ll get to dad in just a few weeks’ time, but with it being early May, we feel it’s appropriate to salute all of the matriarchs that undeniably are the most important cog in the family machine.

Today, we celebrate Mom.

Woodloch just celebrated its 63rd anniversary in April, so this is always the time of year that we can’t help but to think of our founders and the uphill battle they faced to make Woodloch the success that it is today. In 1958, a young couple named Mary and Harry Kiesendahl purchased 12 acres of land and a boarding house on Lake Teedyuskung for $45,000. This, of course, was our own humble beginning!

While Harry put everything he could into his business through relentless hard work and discipline, Mary Kiesendahl represented the true “heart” of Woodloch. From the moment guests called to make their reservations in the early days, through the time they had to pack up the car and begin the long journey home, “Aunt Mary” was the pioneer of Woodloch’s trademark hospitality. Whether she was handling the company books or leading the dining team through another meal service, Mary’s heartwarming smile and genuine kindness were the first steps in making guests “feel like company in our own home.”

Even more impressive, Mary managed to juggle her resort responsibilities while taking care of three kids of her own. A young John, Nancy and Steven always managed to keep things interesting, to say the least! “My mother was all about love, and bringing people together,” says John Kiesendahl. “It all came together well- love and work.” She even took time to volunteer at our local hospital’s auxiliary board.

“She greeted people at the door, knew all the birthdays and celebrations, and balanced my grandfather in so many ways,” says Bradley Kiesendahl, Woodloch’s 3rd generation president. Knowing little details about all of our guests were instrumental in the family feeling we conveyed. Even when John took over business operations in the 80’s, there was no such thing as “retiring” for Mary. Her love for the guests and friends that she made over the years couldn’t stop her from being a fixture in Woodloch’s famous greeting line, as she welcomed familiar faces and first-timers “home.”

While Mary sadly passed away in 2010, her spirit of love echoes in the heart of so many of our social staff. Every year, we still honor a staff member with “The Aunt Mary Award” for exemplary compassion and love that would have made her proud. We think of her every day, in all that she did to make Woodloch the special escape that it has become for so many families.

The spirit of motherly love goes back even further into Woodloch’s pedigree. In the early days of our resort, Mary’s grandmother, Elisabeth Mould, was a big part in instilling so many of the Woodloch traditions that we are proud to continue today. “Gigi,” as the grandchildren and great-grandchildren called her, helped in the kitchen (rolling our famous Scandinavian pancakes) and was even a seamstress for staff uniforms and costumes in our early shows!

She too made the move to Woodloch herself, taking up residence in a small cottage on our main lawn area. Freshly baked cookies, tea, and lemonade made her home a frequented hotspot among the Kiesendahls. It was only fitting that the original house itself is now our “Gigi’s Coffee Shop,” where guests can stop by for a delightful cup of coffee, boba tea, fresh-baked Woodloch goods and other delights!

It’s amazing how just a little bit of love can take root and create something truly special. We fondly remember both of these ladies, and all that they have done for our Woodloch family, by blood and by bond. Their impact upon our resort will lives on through every smile that we share with each other.

Filed Under: History

Fun for Adults at Woodloch Resort: Things to Do in the Poconos

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Fun for Adults at Woodloch Resort: Things to Do in the Poconos

When you stay at a family resort, you may think there are only activities for the kids. But, at Woodloch Resort, we provide an equal amount of activities for adults. Spend the day at our spa, and let us pamper you with a massage and facial. Play a round of golf on our award-winning golf course. Relax at the end of the day with wine tasting or live entertainment. There are so many things to do in the Poconos for adults to enjoy at Woodloch Resort; you’ll never have to leave the property!

Spa

Relax and unwind at our destination spa, The Lodge at Woodloch. Our luxury spa includes saunas, whirlpools, fireplace lounges, and an indoor pool. We will provide you with amenities for the best spa experience. We supply plush robes, razors, spa sandals, and grooming products. We offer many treatments and services, including facials, massages, specialty bodywork, body treatments, float therapy, and nail services at our Lotus Salon. Please read our complete guide of programs and services here to choose the best spa day for you!

Golf

The Country Club at Woodloch Springs has been recognized as one of the best courses to play in the country. Eighteen holes, including the 14th hole, which challenges players with a 220-yard carry-over Hells Gate Gorge. You can also use the 16 acres to practice and improve your game. Check out different rates and tee times here.

Wine Tasting

Join our sommelier to sample a variety of wines. Learn about the distinct characteristics that make every wine different. You can also join us for our Paint & Sip if you are interested in making art while you sip your wine.

Night Activities

When the sun goes down, you’ll have a variety of night activities to choose from. Check out a show from our featured magician for card tricks and illusions. You can hear live music in multiple indoor and outdoor venues. Woodloch also features comedians to see in an intimate and family-friendly setting.

Relax & Unwind at Woodloch

Woodloch Resort offers plenty of things to do in the Poconos. With so much to do, boredom is next to impossible. Relax at our spa or dance along to live music. We invite you to unwind at our all-inclusive resort. If you have any questions about our activities or want to book a room, please call us at 570-685-8109.

A Guide to Poconos Fishing at Woodloch

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A Guide to Poconos Fishing at Woodloch

Photo of father and son enjoying a day of Poconos fishing at Woodloch

Anglers from all over the country flock to the Poconos for the opportunity to fish. The scenic backdrop of the Poconos Mountains and the thousands of acres of lakes and streams make Poconos fishing elite. The all-inclusive Woodloch Resort is situated next to Lake Teedyuskung, providing swimming and fishing just minutes away from your room. Cast a line from the dock at Lake Teedyuskung, or use Ray’s Fishing Guide Service for the best fishing on Lake Wallenpaupack. You will be situated next to some of the best Poconos fishing when you stay with us at Woodloch Resort. 

Lake Teedyuskung

Fishing is made easy at Woodloch Resort. Take a short walk down to our very own Lake Teedyuskung. Fish for bass, walleye, pike, perch, and sunfish right off of our docks. Lake Teedyuskung is a catch and release fishing area only. Pick up your rod and relax on the shoreline and wait for the fish to bite.

Lake Wallenpaupack

Lake Wallenpaupack is a popular fishing destination for anglers. The expansive lake covers 5,700 acres, which provides ample opportunity for different fish to thrive. The north end of the lake is best for striped bass, walleye, and smallmouth bass. The south end is best for bluegill and largemouth bass. In comparison, the central section contains calico and perch. If you would like a guide to show you the best Lake Wallenpaupack fishing areas, check out Ray’s Fishing Guide Service. Ray provides rods, reels, bait, and tackle. Ray’s charter trips are guaranteed to be a fun-filled day of throwing the line out.

Nearby Fishing

There are other hidden gems in Hawley for unbeatable Poconos fishing. The Lackawaxen River hosts many fish species, including trout, crappies, bass, and panfish. The nearby Westcolang Pond contains largemouth bass, pickerel, and yellow perch. If you are willing to make a 30-minute drive check out Promised Land Lake. This 422-acre lake is stocked with brook, brown, and rainbow trout. After your day of fishing, return to Woodloch Resort and participate in one of the many activities available. 

Your Next Fishing Vacation at Wooloch Resort

Fishing is only one way to enjoy the Poconos. At Woodloch Resort, fishing is one of over 30 activities to do during your stay. Fish from the resort at Lake Teedyuskung or make the drive to Promised Land State Park for a day of hiking and fishing. Come back to your room at Woodloch Resort and unwind at the spa or race on the go-cart track. There is no shortage of things to do at Woodloch, so cast a line and join us for the best Poconos vacation. If you have any questions or would like to book a room, please call us at 570-685-8109

The Most Exciting Poconos Activities at Woodloch

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The Most Exciting Poconos Activities at Woodloch

Photo of lake at Woodloch: a great place for Poconos activities

Collectively, the Pocono Mountains are one of the most scenic areas of the country. Whether you are looking to hike, fish, golf, or canoe, the Poconos have it all. But that’s not where the excitement ends. At Woodloch Resort, you can participate in endless Poconos activities without ever leaving the resort. Spend your days racing go-karts, solving escape rooms, paintballing, and participating in scavenger hunts. There are so many exciting activities at Woodloch Resort that you’ll have trouble finding time to do them all. Your ideal Poconos vacation awaits you at Woodloch Resort. 

Go-Karts

Start your vacation with an exciting Poconos activity. Race on our two go-kart tracks that wind along the scenic Pennsylvania landscape. Enjoy the scenery as you speed past your competitors!

Climbing Wall

The climbing wall reaches 30 feet into a canopy of trees. Try it for yourself for a great workout and even greater views when you reach the top.

Escape Room

Escape Rooms have skyrocketed in popularity over the past few years. That’s why we set up our very own escape room based on the board game Clue. You will have 60 minutes to solve the mystery. Do you have what it takes to Get a Clue?

Paintball

Sign up for paintball along with the beautiful backdrop of the Poconos. Play games such as Capture the Flag and Elimination.

Amazing Race

The Amazing Race is the ultimate test of endurance, knowledge, and skill. Take in the 135 acres of Poconos landscape as you go through the action-packed game. Find out if you have what it takes to win the Amazing Race.

Scavenger Hunt

Another way to explore the beautiful acreage at Woodloch is by participating in the scavenger hunt. Gather your team and embark on a gauntlet of challenges. Find items, track down bonuses, and solve the puzzle to win gold.

Exciting Activities at Woodloch Resort

There is no shortage of things to do at Woodloch Resort. These are just a few of the 30+ activities you can choose. Get a CLUE in our Escape Room or go for gold in our Scavenger Hunt. Find the complete list of activities, events, and amenities here. If you want to book a room or have any questions about our exciting activities, please contact us at 570-685-8109.