These NEPA Hikes Offer Big Rewards
A bit of rock-scrambling and uphill climbing can be fun every now and then, but sometimes you just want to reach a view without all the work. Contrary to popular belief, you don’t always have to endure ten-mile treks to reach NEPA’s natural hidden gems.
These hikes won’t take all day and best of all, they offer big rewards. Despite shorter distances, the sightseeing is no less incredible.
No need for equipment, just grab your camera and hit these trails for some stunning views.
Bear Creek, PA
Bear Creek Preserve’s scenic trails offer a convenient, quiet escape. The 3.4-mile Yellow Loop features great views along moderate terrain. You can even connect to the Blue Trail for a short walk to a stunning scenic overlook.
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Tannersville, PA
Sitting at 2,100 feet, atop Camelback Mountain, Big Pocono State Park offers incredible sights of the rolling Pocono Mountains. Take the Vista Trail, a short connector trail, or the Indian Trail, the park’s easier 1.3-mile hike, for some crazy cliff views.
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Dingmans Ferry, PA
See awe-inspiring waterfalls on the Dingmans Creek Trail. Boardwalk paths lead to both Silverthread and Dingmans Falls.
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Susquehanna, PA
The D&H Rail-Trail features plenty of iconic, historic sites along its 38 miles, but the Starrucca Viaduct in Lanesboro is a truly can’t-miss location. Walk the stretch of trail along the base of the beautiful 100-foot tall stone bridge.
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Kempton, PA
Hawk Mountain Sanctuary features lookouts all over the park for spotting birds of prey. South Lookout is only a short walk from the entrance gate and can be reached by the Silhouette Trail.
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White Haven, PA
This unique site in Hickory Run State Park formed during an ice age thousands of years ago. If you’re up for an adventure, see how far you can make it across the rocky terrain.
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Honesdale, PA
Breathtaking views of historic downtown Honesdale, the Lackawaxen River and the Pocono Mountains are the cherries on top of this short-and-sweet hike.
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Jim Thorpe, PA
On the portion of the Lehigh Gorge Trail just outside of Jim Thorpe, you’ll find bridge views of the Lehigh River’s rapids and the Turn Hole Tunnel, a historic feature of the Lehigh and Susquehanna Railroad.
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Factoryville, PA
This nature preserve, owned by Countryside Conservancy, features a half-mile out-and-back trail alongside Tunkhannock Creek. Follow the running water to a scenic gorge complete with cliffs, waterfalls and crystal-clear pools.
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Benton, PA
See amazing waterfall views on the Lower Falls Trail from the PA-118 lot to Water’s Meet. Or go just across the road for the mile-long Evergreen Trail to Adams Falls.
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Montrose, PA
Check out 500-year old trees and the famous Penny Rock on a couple of moderate trails at Salt Springs State Park. Start with the 0.2-mile long Overlook Trail and continue to the Hemlock Trail for boardwalk paths and observation platforms.
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Hanover Twp., PA
For valley views, hidden caves and rushing waterfalls, hop on the Sugar Notch Ridgetop Trail. This 3-mile out-and-back path follows alongside the top of Wilkes-Barre Mountain and Sugar Notch Run.
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Hawley, PA
You don’t need a boat or jet ski to see the stunning sights of Lake Wallenpaupack. Take a laidback sunrise or sunset stroll along 1.5 miles of shoreline on the flat, paved Wallenpaupack Lake Trail.
Learn MoreWhen it comes to scenic hikes, these easy trails are just the beginning. Check out our list of NEPA trails and plan your next adventure.
Article Updated from its Original Version Published on 6/11/20.
