There's more to the Poconos than downhill skiing

The Pocono Mountains and their 2,400 square miles of pristine landscapes have been many things to many people. For GIs returning to New York City's harbor from World War II, this was the honeymoon capital of the world, where amorous couples found the nation's first heart-shaped tub. Hoards of skiers on wooden boards cut their teeth at Big Boulder Ski Area during the early days of the sport, and the growth of whitewater rafting and golfing further broadened the four-season appeal of the Pocono Mountains.

In winter, the Poconos offer more than just downhill skiing, though it wasn't easy to convince me. After all, we Alpine skiers can be a stubborn bunch. But I'm game to try new experiences. Here are two I found in the Pennsylvania mountains.

Dog sledding

You can only imagine my apprehension when a friend suggested we stay off the slopes on a weekend and instead try, of all things, dog sledding. Somehow I couldn't envision myself spending a precious Saturday morning yelling "mush" behind a team of huskies. Frankly, I'm not even that fond of dogs. It turned out to be one of the best decisions our little ski group ever made.

Throughout the Poconos' evolution, Skytop Lodge has remained one of the region's most stately resorts. Located on a high plateau in the central Poconos, three miles north of the village of Canadensis, Skytop oozes luxury. It was there that our dog-sledding experience unfolded.

Immediately upon arrival, we were greeted by 20 dogs, each of them personally introduced by their affable guide. Actually, the dogs seemed so smart I thought they'd introduce themselves. Although the majority were huskies, a few were bred with greyhounds. While huskies are known to be strong and tireless workers, they don't have the speed of other dogs. Thus, the cross-breeding.

Dog sledding involves a seated rider and standing musher, the person responsible for braking and leaning to turn. Mushers are warned not to leave both feet off the brake lest the hyperactive dogs run past the guide who directs the group from his snowmobile.