INSIDE SCOOP

903 scooPs 1398 sR 903, JiM ThoRPe, PA 570-527-3459 • www.903scoops.com or Facebook

How great is it that I can find a place called Scoops for my Inside Scoop column? Quite.

We had a day ride to Jim Thorpe to visit the Bear Mountain Butterfly Sanctuary (watch for upcoming write-up). We did not know what to expect and when we found out that it has been in existence for 20 years, we were appalled that we had not visited sooner. I will say that it is a thrill for all ages to have butterflies surrounding you and we learned a great deal about butterflies and moths, in addition to the varied and exotic amphibians they have on exhibit. While they have a short season (this year they will close on August 29th) be sure to put them on your ride schedule for 2022, because not only will you have a great ride there, you will be rewarded with some delicious ice cream afterwards. While we were pulling out of the road to get back on Route 903, Brian made a quick U-turn as he spied something that slipped my eye – Scoops Ice Cream. Set back a bit, the bright blue building with its neon red OPEN sign beckons you to come in and sit a spell while enjoying some Hershey’s deluxe ice cream. We pulled in front to get a couple of pictures and, since

there was no one in the lot, left the bikes to go inside. Yes, we saw the NO PARKING HERE sign, but figured we’d be out in no time and move the bikes. Well, we got to talking and it did take a bit to figure out exactly what flavors were desired, as they have a wide assortment of almost all of the Hershey flavors. We were just heading out when a truck pulled in the lot and said some words about the bikes being parked in the NO PARKING area. Yes sir, we were in the wrong and should have moved the bikes. I only bring this up so you won’t make the same mistake and PLEASE park in the designated spots.

End of PSA.

Back to the ice cream at hand – the two women inside were as sweet as the ice cream they were scooping, and offered tastings of anything that might pique our taste buds. Brian is pretty predictable with his ice cream choices and went for the Coffee House Cookies & Cream with a side of Crazy Vanilla. I will go for something that I don’t get every day so had a cup of Graham Central Station and Peanut Butter Cookies & Cream. All were great, as Hershey’s has their ice cream down to a science, even though it is mass produced. But, ya know, almost any ice cream beats no ice cream, so there’s that. Scoops will serve you your ice cream in a cup, cone

(waffle or sugar), sundae, milkshake and with or without your choice of many toppings. Their prices are very reasonable and serving size just right. They are a seasonal shop, but are open until the end of September 7 days a week from 12 to 10pm.

Taking a ride to Jim Thorpe proper is a great idea as well. There are many unique shops, historical sites such as the Asa Packer Mansion and Old Jail Museum, wineries, and plenty of dining spots. Perhaps an overnight is in order – if so, there are a number of bed & breakfasts, inns and other lodging types to fit your needs.

To start you off, we’ll give you an 85-mile ride from Washington Crossing State Park to Scoops. You decide if you’d like to make it an overnight – it’s certainly a great ride anytime, but in the beginning of fall, it’s spectacular. , Download route here: