Rolling hills, waterfalls, rivers, lakes and evergreen forests: the Pocono Mountains offer 2,400 square miles of natural beauty for hikers. With the spring thaw comes the outdoor draw that leads to these wonderful places to trek in the Poconos:
Austin T. Blakeslee Natural Area, Route 115, Blakeslee—Approximately 130 acres of protected land featuring waterfalls that create deep pools of water bordered by rock-strewn banks. Walk along the Creek Trail to the lookout for an awesome view of the falls.
Big Pocono State Park, Camelback Road, Tannersville—Steep and rough grades are appropriate for experienced, physically fit hikers.
Bushkill Falls, Route 209, Bushkill—Property features eight tumbling waterfalls. As one of Pennsylvania’s most beautiful and dramatic natural sights, Bushkill Falls makes an ideal day trip for hikers. Trails and bridges wind through the area and into a lush, emerald green forest.
Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, River Road, Bushkill—40 miles of the Delaware River roar within the park that is a sanctuary for eagles, bears and rattlesnakes, among other wildlife species.
Gouldsboro State Park, Route 507, Tobyhanna—Rugged terrain makes hiking in this Northern Pocono park challenging, but fun.
Hickory Run State Park, Carbon County,—This sprawling 15,990-acre state park sits at the foothills of the Pocono Mountains. Traverse more than 40 miles of hiking trails, see serene streams and conquer the famous Boulder Field!
Lehigh Gorge State Park, Luzerne and Carbon Counties—The 6,107 acres of park land follow the Lehigh River from Francis E. Walter Dam in the north to Jim Thorpe in the south. The Lehigh Gorge Trail follows over 20 miles of abandoned railroad grade along the river, providing opportunities for hiking, bicycling, sightseeing and photography. Be sure to check out Glen Onoko Falls!
Kettle Creek Environmental Education Center, Running Valley Road, Stroudsburg—This center sponsors numerous year-round activities, including guided hikes, within its Kettle Creek wildlife sanctuary.
Nescopeck State Park, Honey Hole Road, Drums,—This picturesque park encompasses rich forests and wetlands, creating diverse habitats for Pocono wildlife. Hiking trails follow the meandering Nescopeck Creek, and an environmental education center provides year-round programs.
Pocono Environmental Education Center, Emery Road, Dingmans Ferry—Located within the Delaware Water Gap Recreational Area, PEEC offers six trails for every fitness level. Some trails afford splendid views of the Kittatinny Mountains across the river.
