A Beginner’s Guide to Axe Throwing in the Poconos

There’s something unexpectedly satisfying about stepping up to the line, drawing back and watching an axe land squarely in the target. Maybe it’s the focus the moment demands. Maybe it’s the unmistakable sound when it sticks. Or maybe it’s simply the joy of trying something unexpected together, surrounded by the natural beauty of the Pocono Mountains.

At Skytop Lodge, axe throwing has become one of the most talked-about experiences on our 5,500-acre mountain retreat. Whether you’re arriving with family, planning a corporate outing, celebrating a milestone, or simply looking for something new to try on a weekend escape to the Pocono Mountains, this is one activity that has a way of bringing people together in the most memorable way.

Here’s everything you need to know before your first throw.

 

What Is Axe Throwing, Exactly?

If you’ve never done it, here’s the quick version: you stand at a marked line, grip a hatchet-style axe with both hands and throw it end-over-end toward a circular wooden target. The goal is to hit the bullseye. It sounds simple. It is simple, in the best possible way.

Our dedicated axe throwing lanes are designed for both comfort and safety, creating an experience that feels approachable whether it’s your first throw or your fiftieth. Two throwers can throw simultaneously, and the clear boundaries keep everything safe and well-organized. Experienced axe throwing coaches are on hand throughout every session. They’ll walk you through proper stance and release technique, ensure everyone stays safe and run games and friendly competitions once you’ve got the hang of it.

Each lane can accommodate up to six people per half-hour session, so everyone gets plenty of time to throw. And if your group is larger than ten, private lane arrangements are available, just let us know when you book.

 

Is It Safe?

Yes, and this is one of the first questions first-timers usually ask. With proper coaching and a clearly structured environment, axe throwing is a safe, well-managed activity suitable for ages 14 and up (with a parent or guardian signature for anyone under 18).

A few things to know before you arrive:

• Close-toed shoes are required. Leave the sandals and flip-flops behind.
• Plan to arrive 10 minutes early to complete your waiver.
• Rain or shine: axe throwing happens regardless of the weather.
• Cancellation policy: A 2-hour cancellation window is in effect, so if plans change, let us know with enough notice.

Sessions run year-round, making this a perfect addition to a fall foliage weekend, a winter retreat, a spring adventure, or a summer family vacation.

 

Who Is It For?

The honest answer: just about everyone. Here’s where axe throwing has a way of surprising people; it doesn’t take size, strength or prior experience. What it takes is focus, patience and a willingness to laugh a little when the axe clangs off the target (because it will, at least once). After a few throws, something clicks, and that’s when the real fun begins.

Families find it to be one of the most genuinely engaging activities on the property. There’s no screen in front of you, no headphones in your ears; just a target, a challenge and the kids absolutely lighting up when they stick their first throw.

Couples escaping to the Poconos often find it turns into a little friendly competition, the kind of shared memory that has a way of becoming a favorite story.

Corporate groups find it to be a natural team-building experience. The laid-back, competitive nature of axe throwing creates easy rapport. There’s cheering, coaching each other and a level playing field where the conference room hierarchy disappears entirely. It’s one of those rare activities that encourages connection without feeling structured.

Bachelor and bachelorette parties, reunions, and group gatherings of all kinds have found a home at the lanes. Axe throwing is an icebreaker, a celebration and a bonding experience all at once — exactly the kind of moment Skytop has been creating for guests since 1928.

 

How to Play: A Quick Overview

Our coaches walk you through everything, but here’s a general sense of what to expect:

The Stance. Stand at the throwing line, feet shoulder-width apart. Grip the axe handle with both hands near the base.

The Backswing. Bring the axe straight back over your head, keeping it in line with your target.

The Release. Your coach will guide you through stance, release and timing. Most guests find that once the first throw sticks, the rest starts to come naturally.

The Target. Standard targets have concentric scoring rings, with the bullseye at the center. Once your group gets comfortable, coaches can introduce games, competitions and challenges to keep things moving.

Most beginners stick their first solid throw within 15 to 20 minutes. From there, the goal shifts from “hit the wood” to “hit the bullseye,” and that’s where the real competitive instinct kicks in.

 

Booking Your Experience

Axe throwing at Skytop is available year-round, with sessions operating rain or shine.

• Price: $30 per person for a 1-hour session
• Ages: 14+ (parent or guardian signature required for guests under 18)
• Location: Outfitters at Skytop Lodge (view map at skytop.com)
• Hours: Vary seasonally; advanced reservations are strongly suggested
• Groups of 10+: Contact us to arrange a private lane

To reserve your session, visit the activity page or call our team directly.

 

The Skytop Way

At Skytop Lodge, experiences are designed to bring people together and make room for moments that stay with you long after the trip ends. Axe throwing fits naturally into that tradition: equal parts challenge, laughter and time well spent outdoors.

Whether it becomes the highlight of your weekend or an unexpected addition to your itinerary, we’ll take care of the details. You just have to take the first throw.

Ready to throw? Make a reservation today.