Things to See & Do at Lehigh Gorge State Park

The 165-mile D&L Trail stretches from Wilkes-Barre to Bristol, PA, following historic transportation routes. More than 50 miles of the trail run through Northeastern PA today, connecting forests, waterfalls, small towns and unique industrial features like canal locks. This mostly flat multi-use trail is perfect for walking, running, biking and even cross-country skiing. A highlight for many visitors is the 26-mile stretch that overlaps with the Lehigh Gorge Trail within Lehigh Gorge State Park.

The Lehigh Gorge Trail is a scenic 26-mile rail trail stretching from White Haven to Jim Thorpe, winding right through Lehigh Gorge State Park. It follows the Lehigh River with peaceful river views, shaded stretches and beautiful waterfalls. You’ll also spot historic canal locks and rail beds along the way. This family-friendly, stroller- friendly and wheelchair-accessible trail is a top pick for long summer and fall hikes.

Flowing for roughly 109 miles, the Lehigh River cuts through NEPA’s Pocono Mountains and surrounding Valley Communities before joining the Delaware River. In the stretch that runs through Lehigh Gorge State Park, the river is a hub for adventure with public access areas and boat launches. It’s also known for world-class trout fishing, especially near Hickory Run and Lehigh Gorge.

Lehigh Gorge State Park offers more than scenic river views and rugged trails — it also reflects Northeastern PA’s strong industrial roots. The Lehigh River once served as a major route for moving anthracite coal and timber through the mountains, helping fuel Pennsylvania’s growing industries in the 1800s. Early transportation systems like canals and later railroads followed the gorge, shaping the landscape that visitors explore today. Many trails in the park trace these former corridors, with remnants of the past still found along the route.

Biking on the Lehigh Gorge Trail is one of the best ways to explore Lehigh Gorge State Park.  This mostly flat rail-trail makes for an unforgettable ride through the gorge with river views and plenty of opportunities to stop and take in the scenery. Bike rentals and shuttle services are available throughout the area to help you plan a one-way trip. Since the trail is shared with hikers and other users, be sure to ride with awareness and courtesy along the way.

Fall is one of the most beautiful times to visit Lehigh Gorge State Park. Along the Lehigh Gorge Trail, hikers and bikers can enjoy miles of colorful foliage lining the path, with unforgettable views reflecting off the Lehigh River below. For even bigger scenery, explore other park trails that lead to scenic overlooks high above the gorge, offering sweeping views of the surrounding forests in peak color.

Fishing is allowed in the Lehigh River and park streams during seasons set by the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission. The northern Lehigh River is stocked with trout, with approved trout waters stretching from the Francis E. Walter Dam to Sandy Run. During established seasons, most of the park is also open to hunting, trapping and dog training. Popular game includes deer, turkey, bear and small game. The park also connects to State Game Lands 40, 141, and 149.

Lehigh Gorge State Park offers 33 miles of hiking trails ranging from easy riverside walks to more challenging mountain routes. The popular Lehigh Gorge Trail follows the Lehigh River for 26 miles, offering waterfall views, wildlife sightings, and historic canal remnants, with convenient access points and amenities like restrooms and seasonal potable water. The Bald Mountain Loop Trail climbs 8.5 miles to scenic overlooks high above the gorge, while the short Vista Trail adds even more panoramic views.

Summer at Lehigh Gorge State Park is all about getting outside and making the most of the Lehigh River. Visitors can spend the day fishing along the riverbanks or hitting the scenic paths for hiking and biking on the Lehigh Gorge Trail. For even more excitement, the park is a popular destination for whitewater rafting, with rafters often spotted navigating the rapids below. Whether you’re chasing adventure or looking for a relaxing riverside escape, local outfitters are nearby to offer rentals and even guided trips.

Whitewater rafting and kayaking are major attractions at Lehigh Gorge State Park. The Lehigh River offers Class II–III rapids through the steep, scenic Lehigh Gorge. The river features several designated access areas to launch and exit. River flow is controlled by releases from the Francis E. Walter Dam, which can greatly impact conditions and difficulty. Inexperienced boaters should book a guided trip with a licensed outfitter for a safer, more enjoyable ride.

Lehigh Gorge State Park is home to several beautiful waterfalls that are easily accessible from the park’s main trails. From the Rockport Access Area, hikers can reach both Buttermilk Falls and Luke’s Falls within a short walk, with bridges providing scenic viewpoints along the way. Farther north, Cascade Falls offers a quieter stop surrounded by dense forest and mossy rock. These cascades are a great addition to any hike through the gorge, offering peaceful moments and and stunning views.

Birders may spot everything from warblers and Louisiana water thrush to bald eagles, osprey, kingfishers, mergansers and wild turkeys. Mammals like white-tailed deer, black bear, foxes, beaver, mink and muskrat are often seen near roads, trails and the river. In summer, keep an eye out for reptiles like fence lizards and native snakes—including northern copperheads and timber rattlesnakes.

Lehigh Gorge State Park stays open all winter, offering plenty of ways to enjoy the outdoors even in colder weather. The Lehigh Gorge Trail on the west side of the river from White Haven to Glen Onoko is open for cross-country skiing.  Many park trails are also available for snowshoeing. For motorized winter adventure, a 15-mile section of the Lehigh Gorge Trail from White Haven to Penn Haven Junction is open to snowmobiles.