Anyone able to recommend a guidebook for hikes in the Poconos area? Father-in-law just bought a house up there, I'll probably get dragged up there once of twice a month, might as well make the most of it.....

Irish

The Poconos are not known for their hiking potential.
There is always the AT that runs along Blue Mountain, just south of the Poconos.
Hickory Run State Park is kinda cool. Check out Boulder Field.
Ricketts Glen State Park is not to be missed. A great falls trail, about 4 miles.

There is a Hike PA book available.

there is a fair amount of Ice climbing in the poconos but are you allowed to play?

The Delaware Water Gap National Rec area has a large amount of hiking (some short hikes, some longer) Several Guide books are available