2 PA Icons, 1 Long Weekend. 1 Unforgettable Basecamp.
Why choose between two of Pennsylvania’s most iconic winter traditions when you can do both?
This year, Groundhog Day (February 2nd) falls on a Monday, offering the perfect opportunity to turn a standard weekend into a legendary adventure in the PA Wilds. Located just 75 minutes from Punxsutawney, In the Sticks Cabins in Benezette offers the perfect home base for a balance of exploration, restoration and festive fun. It’s the ultimate wildlife weekend – a chance to witness the majestic herds of PA Elk in the winter landscape and experience the world-famous prediction of Punxsutawney Phil in one unforgettable trip.
Our “Elk-to-Phil” Itinerary:
Friday Night – Arrive to your peaceful cabin, unpack, and get a campfire going. Breathe in the stillness and plan your elk-viewing route for Saturday (you’ll find a map with popular elk viewing locations waiting for you).
Saturday – Head out at sunrise to look for elk. The Elk Country Visitor Center is just across the road, making it the perfect first stop before you explore local artisan shops, wineries and eateries. Wrap up the day with a hot shower, toasty towel, and a flannel robe before crawling into your king-size bed.
Sunday – Kick off your day of rest with another sunrise elk drive, then spend the day by the campfire or snuggled up with a good book. Relax in advance of your early Monday morning wakeup call!
Pro Tip: Pack your gear tonight. You’ll want heavy layers, hand warmers, heated vests, heavy socks, and comfortable shoes. (And be sure to start the trip with an empty bladder!)
Monday – The big event! Wake up early for the scenic drive to Punxsutawney to witness Phil’s prognostication. Gobbler’s Knob opens at 3am.
Pro Tip: Buy your shuttle bus passes in advance at groundhog.org, to avoid the lines.
Expect live bands, fireworks and phenomenal people watching while you wait for the prediction. Once the festivities wrap up, don’t join the masses on the long drive home. Instead, head back to your warm cabin to thaw out.
Tuesday – Sleep in, drink coffee, and enjoy one last morning by the campfire before an unhurried drive home.
Groundhog Recovery Special: Because a 1:00am wake-up call deserves a long afternoon nap, I’m offering 25% off your stay when you extend your groundhog weekend to include Monday night. Don’t rush home – return to the sticks and recover in comfort.
Use code: GROUNDHOG26
Valid for stays from Friday, January 30 to Tuesday, February 3, 2026