Explore Cool Trail Towns, Majestic Mountains & More the Northern D&L Trail
The D&L Trail is a 165-mile trail running from Wilkes-Barre to Bristol, Pennsylvania, offering a rich blend of history, culture, and outdoor recreation. In Northeastern Pennsylvania alone, over 50 miles of this scenic hiking trail are open, with more development underway. The trail’s smooth, flat surface is perfect for walking, biking, running, and even cross-country skiing, making it a year-round destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Along the way, adventurers can enjoy the Lehigh River, breathtaking waterfalls at Lehigh Gorge State Park and historic landmarks. Along the way, charming small towns like Lehighton, Jim Thorpe and White Haven serve as ideal stops for outdoor recreation, restaurants, shopping and more.
The trail D&L Trail is preserved and maintained by the Delaware & Lehigh National Heritage Corridor, a nonprofit based in Easton, PA. Before you hit the trail, visit their website for an interactive map, trip guides and other helpful resources.
D&L Trail: Wilkes-Barre & Mountain Top
The adventure begins right here
The northernmost part of the D&L Trail begins in Luzerne County. Currently, there are short sections of the trail at Seven Tubs Nature Area and in Mountain Top. The Delaware & Lehigh National Heritage Corridor is working to link the Seven Tubs Nature Area section with Mountain Top and eventually expand a northern branch into downtown Wilkes-Barre.
The trail picks up again at the Black Diamond Trailhead in Wright Township. From here on out, the trail is a continuous path through NEPA and into the Lehigh Valley. Just note that this stretch can be narrow and rocky in some parts, and there is a road crossing.
D&L Trail in the Lehigh Gorge
Waterfalls, ruins, and the roaring Lehigh River
After the Black Diamond section, you’ll come to a 26-mile, uninterrupted stretch from White Haven to Jim Thorpe. This part of the trail is sometimes called the Lehigh Gorge Trail since it passes through Lehigh Gorge State Park.
The trail meanders through the dense forests, following the mighty rapids of the Lehigh River. For some waterfall views, stop at Buttermilk Falls and Luke’s Falls. They’re located right along the trail near the Rockport access point.
The D&L Trail traces old canal paths and railways, revealing relics from NEPA’s industrial era like the Lehigh Tannery ruins, canal loch walls, and the Turn Hole Tunnel near the Glen Onoko parking area, which leads to a scenic river overlook. Biking is the best way to take it all in, with the crushed stone surface and gentle grade making for an easy ride. Local outfitters offer bike rentals and shuttle services, so you can explore the full 26-mile stretch or just a portion at your own pace.
Bike Rentals & Outfitters Near Lehigh Gorge
D&L Trail: Downtown Jim Thorpe
The Victorian buildings and artsy vibe give this town a fantasy-like feel
Jim Thorpe lies right outside of Lehigh Gorge State Park. Hop off your bike and stretch your legs, because this historic town is definitely worth the stop. Countless websites and magazines have ranked it among the most beautiful towns in America.
With the stunning architecture and rolling mountains, there’s a reason some call it the Switzerland of Pennsylvania. Restaurants like Molly Maguire’s Pub & Steakhouse, Notch Eight Craft House and Marion Hose Bar are popular local stops. And with boutiques like Everything Nice Gift Shop, Silly Goose and Soundcheck Records, this little town is a shopper’s paradise.
Of course, you can always catch a train ride on the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway. And you can easily plan your trail adventures to coincide with a stay at a local bed & breakfast.
D&L Trail to Weissport & Lehighton
The journey continues along the old towpaths
The canal is still filled with water on this section of the D&L Trail, and historical buildings line the way. Stop and take a rest at Lehigh Canal Park to soak up some of the best views.
Two shorter trails branch off of the main trail for a little side trip. The Lehighton Spur will lead you toward downtown shops and businesses, while the Parryville Spur keeps following the canal until it reaches the river.
D&L Trail: Bowmanstown & Palmerton
We’ve reached the edge of NEPA, but there’s still so much more to see
Bowmanstown and Palmerton are the last towns on the trail before you leave NEPA and cross over into the Lehigh Valley. Take a rest in Riverview Park, or head into downtown Palmerton to explore local shops and restaurants.
Really, we’ve only covered the beginning of an awesome adventure. Keep going, and the D&L Trail will eventually take you all the way to Bucks County, passing through cities like Allentown, Bethlehem, Easton and New Hope along the way. In fact, Pocono Biking offers multi-day bike tours on the trail so you can explore NEPA and beyond.
Maintaining resources like the D&L Trail requires a lot of maintenance, advocacy and community support. You can do your part in many ways. Volunteer to become a trail tender or trail patrol. Pitch in at trail clean-ups. Offer time and expertise as an educator. There are countless ways to help keep the D&L Trail one of NEPA’s most precious outdoor recreation amenities.
Article Updated from its Original Version Published on 10/17/2020.
