Frequently Asked Questions
Below are the most frequently asked questions we get for Elk Haven Lodge and the surrounding Elk Mountain area. If you have any other questions, please reach out.
Where is Elk Haven Lodge located?
Elk Haven Lodge is set along Stark Road in Union Dale, Pennsylvania, surrounded by a peaceful mix of open fields and tall pines. The property offers the feeling of a private retreat without putting guests far from local experiences or conveniences. One of the biggest highlights is that it sits less than five minutes from Elk Mountain Ski Resort, making it one of the most accessible homes near the slopes.
How far is it from NYC, Philadelphia, the Poconos, and Scranton?
The lodge is about a two and a half hour drive from New York City and roughly two hours from Philadelphia. It is close enough for a long weekend but far enough for a meaningful escape. The property is also near the Poconos and only about thirty five minutes from Scranton, which is helpful for travel or dining.
What is there to do nearby?
There are countless things to enjoy within a short drive. Skiing and snowboarding at Elk Mountain, golfing at Panorama Golf Course, hiking near Crystal Lake, and exploring local countryside favorites are all within minutes. Guests also have fast access to the Pennsylvania Rails to Trails system, with a trailhead less than five minutes away that offers miles of scenic biking and walking paths.
What is there to do on the property?
Elk Haven Lodge is built for groups who want both activity and relaxation without ever needing to leave the property. Indoor pickleball, a stocked fishing pond, wooded walking trails along the creek, sunrise views, open fields, and a hot tub create plenty of ways to enjoy time together. Inside, guests can gather in two separate dens with large 75 inch TVs, relax around the bar area, or watch kids enjoy the lower level play nook that has fun surprises to make their stay unforgettable.
How many people can it sleep?
The lodge comfortably sleeps around twenty guests, which makes it perfect for retreats, reunions, and group getaways. The layout is designed so guests can spread out and enjoy privacy while still feeling close and connected. Families, mixed age groups, and multi family stays find the setup especially easy to settle into.
How big is the property and how private is it?
The home sits on twenty acres of land with a mix of open meadow and wooded areas. There are neighbors in the general area but the size of the property gives guests plenty of natural distance and a comfortable sense of space. With the creek, pond, and wooded trails surrounding the home, it feels peaceful and tucked away even though you are not isolated.
Is the lodge good for kids and families?
Yes, it is a great fit for families. The lower level has large multi bed suites that work well for cousins, kids, or extended family to share. The addition of the play nook, the open outdoor areas, and the arcade room on the upper level give younger guests plenty to do while adults relax upstairs.
What is the bedroom layout?
The upper level has three private bedrooms that include a king suite and two queen bedrooms. The lower level features two spacious multi bed suites, each with two full queen beds and a trundle style single bed with another full mattress underneath. Two additional single bedrooms are also located on the lower level, making the home flexible for both families and groups.
How many bathrooms are there?
There are five and a half bathrooms throughout the home. The upper level includes a master bathroom, a shared bathroom for the queen rooms, and a half bath powder room near the kitchen and dining area. The lower level includes three more full bathrooms, making mornings and evenings easier for large groups.
Is there enough parking?
There is plenty of parking space on the property for multiple vehicles. Guests can pull around to the back of the home to unload luggage or ski gear easily. The driveway is also plowed after each snowfall during the winter months.
What makes Elk Haven Lodge special?
The property is thoughtfully designed around the idea of coming together and creating memories in nature. Every space encourages connection, from the indoor pickleball court and multi level gathering areas to the open fields, wooded trails, and peaceful water features. Guests leave feeling grounded, refreshed, and filled with meaningful moments that stay with them long after the trip ends.
What amenities does the kitchen have?
The upper level kitchen includes a full range, microwave, secondary oven, and everything needed to cook for a group. Both the kitchen and the lower level bar area have coffee makers that brew either a full pot or single K cups. Two refrigerators with built in ice makers make hosting large groups smooth and convenient.
Is there Wi-Fi and what about TVs?
Yes, the home has reliable Wi-Fi on both levels. Two large 75 inch TVs allow guests to stream movies, games, and shows by logging into their own accounts. Whether groups gather for a movie night or relax after skiing, the setup is easy to use.
Is there laundry available?
There are two energy efficient stackable washers and dryers on the upper level near the kitchen. This is especially helpful for longer stays, ski weekends, or families with young children. Guests can refresh clothes without needing to leave the home.
Are pets allowed?
The lodge is currently a pet free property. Guests with unique circumstances are welcome to reach out with questions. For now, only service animals are permitted.
Can guests host events, retreats, or reunions?
Yes, the home is well suited for meaningful gatherings of all kinds. Retreats, family reunions, milestone weekends, and small celebrations all work well here. For catering, guests often enjoy using Cable’s Country Store, a trusted nearby option known for quality food.
How are the roads in the winter?
Guests will travel along some winding country roads but winter access is generally manageable with normal care. Because the lodge is so close to Elk Mountain, the surrounding roads are plowed often during the season. The driveway is cleared after each snowfall to make arrival and departure simple.
Is cell service reliable?
Yes, cell service is strong throughout the home and across most of the property. Guests stay connected easily even while enjoying the outdoors. It is reliable enough for work, communication, or navigation.
Is swimming allowed in the pond?
Guests can enjoy the pond however they prefer, including swimming at their own risk. Many visitors enjoy fishing or relaxing by the water as a peaceful part of their stay. The pond adds a quiet, scenic backdrop that makes the outdoor space feel even more special.
What wildlife might guests encounter?
It is common to see deer, birds, and other gentle woodland wildlife around the property. These moments tend to be peaceful and memorable, especially at sunrise or early evening. Encounters like these help guests feel connected to the natural surroundings.
What are check-in and check-out times?
Standard check-in is in the afternoon and check-out is in the late morning. Guests who need extra time are invited to ask, as flexibility is sometimes available. The goal is always to make the stay as smooth and comfortable as possible.
What is your cancellation policy?
Guests will receive the full policy details at the time of booking. Cancellations made with ample notice may qualify for a refund, while later cancellations follow the standard terms. Large events or group stays may have additional guidelines to support planning and scheduling.
Can we set up outdoor tents, canopies, or event equipment?
Yes, guests are welcome to set up outdoor tents, canopies, or event equipment on the property. The land is spacious and flexible, and you are free to use it in the way that best supports your gathering. We simply ask that everything is removed and the area is left in the same condition in which you found it.
Are commercial photoshoots or content shoots allowed?
Yes, photoshoots and content shoots are allowed and encouraged. The property lends itself naturally to beautiful images and social media moments. We only ask that posts tag our Instagram account at staykindredpines so we can share and celebrate your experience.
Is smoking allowed?
Smoking is not allowed inside any of the buildings on the property. Guests who wish to smoke may do so outdoors and are asked to dispose of any items safely and responsibly. This helps keep the home fresh and enjoyable for all future visitors.
How accessible is the home between levels?
Both the upper level and the lower level can function independently with their own bathrooms and kitchen areas. Guests who prefer to stay entirely on one floor can do so comfortably. This setup makes the home easy to navigate for a wide range of group needs.
How many people can the dining area seat?
The main dining table seats up to ten guests comfortably. Fold out tables are also provided and can be added to create a long table arrangement for larger gatherings and shared meals. Even without extending the table, the kitchen, den, and dining areas together offer more than enough room for the full group to gather for food, conversation, and connection.
Does the lodge have air conditioning and heat?
Yes, the home is equipped with air conditioning and heating across three separate zones for balanced comfort throughout every season. The pickleball court in the barn is also heated, allowing guests to enjoy the game year round. No matter the weather, the interior stays comfortable and welcoming.
Is there a grill?
Yes, guests have access to a Weber grill with propane provided. It is located conveniently for outdoor cooking and group meals. Many guests enjoy grilling after a day of skiing, hiking, or exploring the local area.
What outdoor or recreation items are provided?
The lodge provides sleds, pickleball paddles and balls, and light fishing tackle for guest use. Because items can vary depending on how they were left by previous guests, we always recommend bringing any personal equipment you prefer to use. If anything is forgotten or needed during the stay, Dixon City is about twenty five minutes away with Target, Home Depot, and several other stores for quick supply runs.