The Grand Tour Loop encompasses a grouping of several trails at the Nature Conservancy’s Dick and Nancy Eales Nature Preserve on Moosic Mountain in Jessup. It’s a convenient way to view various habitats and much of the 2,250-acres of protected land. The preserve offers unobstructed views of Scranton, the Wyoming Valley and the vast Pocono Mountains.

Starting at the main parking lot, the Grand Tour Loop consists of the following trails in order: Blueberry, Waterfall, White Birches, Waterfall, Powerline, High Voltage, Gene’s, Bruised Ego and a short loop around Conglomerate before jumping back onto Bruised Ego towards the parking lot.

The Sights and Sounds of the Grand Tour Loop

Some of the best views in NEPA

The Blueberry Trail is true to its name, as it takes you through low-lying blueberry bushes that provide food for birds and small animals in the early summer. At the top of the trail, you will experience stunning 360-degree views of at least 8 counties – Lackawanna, Luzerne, Wayne, Wyoming, Susquehanna, Columbia, Carbon, and Monroe.

Spotting wildlife on the Grand Tour Loop

From there, following the trails will take you through various ecosystems where you have a chance to see wildlife. Near streams and wetlands, turtles and frogs can be found sunning themselves on warm days. Within the stunted pines and low-lying shrubs, you can find caterpillars eating their fill in early Spring before transforming into beautiful moths and butterflies.

Birding is also a favorite activity for visitors to the Preserve. Visitors can experience the song of visiting Warblers, Eastern Towhees nesting in the stunted pines, and resident Hawks searching for prey as the weather begins to improve. Of particular interest is the Hermit Thrush, whose flute-like song is, to many, the voice of Moosic Mountain.

A unique history on display

Towards the end of your hike, the Conglomerate trail will take you along fascinating rock outcrops that are unique to this area. Interestingly, over the past 20 years, The Nature Conservancy’s land managers have also been discovering natural trail markers throughout the preserve most likely left by the indigenous people who inhabited these lands prior to European settlement, adding to the intricate history of the area.

Game species such as white tail deer, black bear, turkey, ruffed grouse, snowshoe hare and coyote can also be found at the preserve. Hunting is permitted in cooperation with PA Game Commission and visitors are asked to wear orange during this time.