D&H Canal Park at Lock 31 | Historic Outdoor Destination in the Pocono Mountains
Step into canal-era history at the D&H Canal Park at Lock 31, a 16-acre historic site in Hawley operated by the Wayne County Historical Society. This scenic park preserves a section of the original 108-mile-long Delaware and Hudson Canal, which once transported anthracite coal from Northeastern Pennsylvania to the Hudson River between 1828 and 1899. Though much of the canal has vanished, this park offers a rare glimpse into its legacy and how it shaped the history of Northeastern PA and the Pocono Mountains.
Visitors can explore the remnants of Lock 31 and stroll along the old towpath trail, which is especially popular with birdwatchers—keep an eye out for bald eagles. The park also includes the historic Daniels Farmhouse, also known as the Lock 31 House, built in 1820. Over the years, it has functioned as a home, store, and dance hall, adding depth to the site’s layered history.
D&H Canal Park at Lock 31 also serves at the starting point of the Hawley Trail, which connects Hawley to Lake Wallenpaupack and runs along the Lackawaxen River.
Don’t miss the annual Canal Festival in August, featuring guided tours, living history demonstrations, live music, and local vendors. The event celebrates the area’s rich past while offering fun for all ages.
Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or casual walker, D&H Canal Park in Hawley offers a meaningful way to connect with the past.