Opt Outside: 5 Hikes and Trails in the Poconos

1. Austin T. Blakeslee Natural Area

Listen for birdsong as you weave your way through soaring trees to find your way to the wide, flat waterfalls along Tobyhanna Creek, a tributary of the Lehigh River. Three trails at the Austin T. Blakeslee Natural Area allow visitors to explore this pristine 130-acre preserve. Bring a picnic to enjoy at the covered pavilion at the lower trailhead off Route 115. Remember to take along any trash to help us keep the Poconos clean and green!

2. Lacawac Sanctuary

A hidden gem in Wayne County, Lacawac Sanctuary is located off the northern shore of Lake Wallenpaupack and has its own beautiful Lake Lacawac which hikers can discover. The 550 acres and nine miles of hiking trails also lead to diverse wildlife habitats, woodlands, wetlands, and a historic lodge. See the blooming rhododendrons, find the osprey nests along Heron Pond. or sign up for a seasonal event to learn more about the landscape from local experts.

3. Lehigh Gap Nature Center

The famed Appalachian Trail and the historic Delaware and Lehigh National Heritage Corridor are two of the incredible many-mile trails that pass through the Pocono Mountains region, and visitors to the Lehigh Gap Nature Center in Slatington can experience both of them! Find panoramic views as you ascend Blue Mountain to follow the AT, stay by the river to discover a portion of the D&L, or venture out onto the 11 other trails crisscrossing this 75-acre wildlife refugre.

4. Levee Loop Trail

The Levee Loop Trail is perfect for a quick and pleasant outdoor hike near Stroudsburg and East Stroudsburg. Follow this 4.5-mile, easy to moderate recreational trail through the trees and fields alongside the Brodhead Creek, with convenient access points at local parks like Yetter Park, Dansbury Park, Creekview Park, and Stokes Mill Park. Pets and bikes are welcome along the trail. Bring your fishing reel and rod (and your up-to-date PA fishing permit) to try your luck along the creek. Recreational use fees may apply so be sure to consult the park signage.

5. Pocono Environmental Education Center

Located within Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, the six loop trails at Pocono Environmental Education Center (PEEC) are free and open to the public year-round from dawn to dusk. Challenge yourself and watch for wildlife along the Ridgeline and Scenic Gorge Trails, admire the waterfall along the Tumbling Waters Trail, or take a restful meander on the violet-blazed, ADA-compliant Trail for Everyone. Don't forget to check out the educational classes and nature events that PEEC hosts throughout the seasons.

Before you head out on your Pocono hike, make sure you're prepared with appropriate attire including a sturdy pair of hiking shoes or boots, plenty of water, sunscreen and bug spray, and a first aid kit. Take care of the environment and leave no trace when visiting our beloved parks and trail systems. Looking to take care of Mother Nature while you spend time outdoors? Celebrate Earth Day and sign up for our Pick Up the Poconos Clean-up Day on Saturday, April 20, 2024! Don’t forget to check out our restaurants and places to stay to refuel and rest while visiting. See you in the Poconos!

Spring and Summer Poconos Hiking Photos

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