Boasting over 6,000 acres of natural beauty and a rich history, Lehigh Gorge State Park is an ideal destination for summer outdoor adventure at just a two-hour drive from major cities like Philadelphia and New York. From waterfalls to whitewater rafting, from trails to trout fishing, we've got your bucket list of the best things to see and do in and around Lehigh Gorge State Park.

Lehigh Gorge State Park

Lehigh Gorge State Park

  • 3 Family Camp Road
  • (272) 808-6192

A deep, river-carved gorge, thick vegetation, rocky outcroppings and breathtaking waterfalls characterize the Lehigh Gorge State…

Stretching between Luzerne and Carbon counties in Pennsylvania, the steep-walled gorge that is the primary feature of the park rises above the Lehigh River as it winds from the Francis. E. Walter Dam on the northern end to the town of Jim Thorpe on the southern end. Parking and access areas are available at Glen Onoko, Rockport and White Haven. 26 miles of the 165-mile Delaware & Lehigh National Heritage Corridor are located within Lehigh Gorge State Park, providing a smooth and scenic gravel path for hiking and biking. From the park's past to its present, keep reading to learn everything visitors need to know about Lehigh Gorge State Park.

  1. History of Lehigh Gorge State Park
  2. Hiking and Biking the Gorge Trail
  3. Waterfalls in the Park
  4. Whitewater Rafting Adventures
  5. Fishing on the Lehigh River
  6. Things to Do & Places to Stay Nearby

History of Lehigh Gorge State Park

1. History of Lehigh Gorge State Park

Over the course of millions of years, the Lehigh River carved out the Gorge, cutting its way through the rocks of Pennsylvania's Anthracite Region and the Pocono Plateau. The landscape has been shaped by the industrial revolution as well: the area's deposits of Anthracite coal were mined and shipped to cities all over the East Coast in the 1800s. To transport the coal, the Lehigh Coal and Navigation Company constructed a series of huge dams, locks, and canals, so impressive that they became known as the "Upper Grand."

Mining continued throughout the nineteenth century, and renowned naturalist John James Audubon lamented growing deforestation when he spent six weeks painting in the area in 1829. Audubon would be glad to know that today, much of the lush green has returned, and the land is now protected by the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources. Some signs of the area's industrial past can still be found in the park, like Turn Hole Tunnel near the Glen Onoko Access Area. While the tunnel is now permanently closed to visitor access, it shows where an abandoned railroad line used to pass through the mountain and over the Lehigh River.

Why not dive more fully into the area's history at local museums? The No. 9 Coal Mine & Museum highlights the lives of local miners who once worked in these hills. You can ride 1,600 feet by rail into the mountain and see the original 900-foot elevator shaft. For an alfresco train tour, follow in the steps of nineteenth century tourists and hop aboard the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway for a round-trip ride from Jim Thorpe to White Haven. The beautiful train station in Jim Thorpe that visitors depart from was built in 1888 and is now on the National Register of Historic Places.

No. 9 Coal Mine & Museum

No. 9 Coal Mine & Museum

  • 9 Dock Street
  • (570) 645-7074

Tour a real coal mine dating back to 1855! Hop in a mine car and take the tracks over 1,600 feet into the mountain. Once inside, embark on a 600-foot, guided walking tour. Examine the original mine shaft, walk the “mule-way," and see a…

Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway

Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway

  • 1 Susquehanna Street
  • (570) 325-8485

Experience a ride the whole family will enjoy! Comfortable, vintage coaches built as early as 1917 are pulled by diesel engines through breathtaking places on the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway. During the regular season, ride the rails from…

Hiking and Biking the Gorge Trail

2. Hiking and Biking the Gorge Trail

Lehigh Gorge State Park is a fantastic place to immerse yourself in the great outdoors. Watch for wildlife as you follow the winding course of the canyon and the Lehigh River on the Lehigh Gorge Rail Trail, a 26-mile stretch of the D&L Trail. Don't forget to bring appropriate footwear, water and sunscreen. Pets are welcome too! Consult the Lehigh Gorge Trail map to chart your trek ahead of time. Note that the Glen Onoko Falls Trail remains closed to hikers for safety reasons.

Lehigh Gorge State Park - Hiking

Lehigh Gorge State Park - Hiking

  • Lehigh Gorge Trail
  • (272) 808-6192

Take a leisurely stroll or a challenging hike through the Lehigh Gorge State Park! The park features a variety of trails that encompasses 33 miles of scenic hiking trails. Trails vary in scenery, length and terrain. The 26-mile Lehigh Gorge…

D&L Trail - Hiking

D&L Trail - Hiking

  • 2750 Hugh Moore Park Road
  • (610) 923-3548

Stop and stroll along the scenic D&L Trail as it traverses through the Delaware & Lehigh National Heritage Corridor (DLNHC). The D&L Trail is a multi-use trail spanning 165 miles from Northeast PA through the Lehigh Valley and Bucks County…

As you're enjoying the pristine scenery, remember to leave no trace so future generations can continue to enjoy Lehigh Gorge. Pick up after yourself and your pet and be sure to stay on designated trails and follow park regulations. For cyclists, bring your own wheels or find bike rentals and guided excursions with local outfitters as you pedal your way along the D&L Trail.

Lehigh Gorge State Park - Biking

Lehigh Gorge State Park - Biking

  • 3 Family Camp Road
  • (272) 808-6192

The Lehigh Gorge Trail, which follows 26 miles of the D&L Trail, the foundation of the 165-mile Delaware and Lehigh National Heritage Corridor within the park. Wide tires are recommended. Bicycle rentals and shuttle service are available…

D&L Trail - Biking

D&L Trail - Biking

  • 2750 Hugh Moore Park Road
  • (610) 923-3548

Discover the Delaware & Lehigh National Heritage Corridor. Explore natural heritage and see glimpses of historic ruins as you travel along the bike-friendly D&L Trail. 37 of the D&L Trail's over 165 miles lie within the Pocono Mountains…

Pocono Biking is conveniently located in downtown Jim Thorpe and offers a shuttle schedule plus special excursions like the Bike Train. Located just outside of town, Whitewater Rafting Adventures in Nesquehoning and Adventure Center at Whitewater Challengers in Weatherly have plenty of parking and easy access to the park's trails. Give e-bikes a try with a rental from Bronson EBikes & Trikes in Lehighton, located right off the trail. For a downhill course, plan to travel south along the D&L; there is a 2% uphill grade as you travel north.

Pocono Biking

Pocono Biking

  • 7 Hazard Square
  • (570) 325-8430

Pocono Biking offers a selection of trail options with daily shuttles and rentals from 10…

Pocono Television Network has a three-part series highlighting the many great features along the Delaware & Lehigh Canal. Watch more below to get a taste of the trail!

There are lots of small towns to explore along the way, with shops and restaurants just a short distance from the trail, like The Gorge Eatery and Chantilly Goods, where you can stop to refuel.

The Gorge Eatery

The Gorge Eatery

  • 500 Bridge Street
  • (610) 875-6466

Find The Gorge Eatery inside The Hofford Mill. The Gorge serves a limited menu of hand-made, from-scratch dishes. Featured dishes include snacks and shareables, flatbreads, tacos, and fresh pastas. Gluten-free and vegetarian-friendly…

Chantilly Goods

Chantilly Goods

  • 200 Bridge Street
  • (610) 379-4767

Chantilly Goods has been serving delicious ice cream and sweet treats since 2015! Proudly serving Manning Farm Dairy’s ice cream. Manning Farm Dairy is a fourth-generation dairy farm based out of Dalton, Pennsylvania. Carrying 28 of…

Waterfalls in the Park

3. Waterfalls in the Park

The mighty Lehigh River isn't the only impressive water feature in the park. Popular waterfalls include Buttermilk Falls and Luke's Falls, both located a short distance from the Rockport access. Find the 50-foot graceful drops of Buttermilk Falls upstream and the cavernous cascade of Luke's Falls downstream from the parking area. Both falls are magnificent in any season, but Luke's Falls can be more difficult to see in the summer, as it is surrounded by dense foliage.

Lehigh Gorge State Park

Lehigh Gorge State Park

  • Lehigh Gorge Trail
  • (272) 808-6192

Rocky cliffside streams surge into waterfalls in the Lehigh Gorge State Park. The park's 33 miles of trails lead to scenic vistas…

Whitewater Rafting Adventures

4. Whitewater Rafting Adventures

Looking for thrills? Take on the Class I, II and III rapids on the Lehigh River! Whether you're brand new to whitewater rafting or an old pro, local businesses offer gear rentals, experienced guides and trips to suit every comfort level. It's a great adventure for families: take a look at what whitewater rafting on the Lehigh River is like in the video below.

Book an excursion with Adventure Center at Whitewater Challengers, Jim Thorpe River Adventures, Pocono Whitewater Adventures or Whitewater Rafting Adventures for a day full of fun. Plan to visit on a dam release day for even more adrenaline!

Fishing on the Lehigh River

5. Fishing on the Lehigh River

To enjoy the river at a slower pace, plan a day fishing in Lehigh Gorge! From the Francis E. Walter Dam to Sandy Run, you'll find waters stocked with trout in season, and whitewater rafting is discouraged north of White Haven to leave the fish undisturbed. Don't forget, anglers over 16 will need a fishing license from the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission. For a guided experience, book a trip with local outfitters like Captain Joe's Fishing and Waterman Services.

Things to Do & Places to Stay Nearby

6. Things to Do & Places to Stay Nearby

After a day in the fresh air, an evening on the town is just the ticket. Jim Thorpe and Lehighton are located on the doorstep of Lehigh Gorge State Park, and both towns have a rich history. Lehighton was known for the “Route of the Black Diamond,” the railroad route taken by coal being transported out of the region. Originally known as Mauch Chunk, the town of Jim Thorpe was founded when development on the Upper Grand Section of the Lehigh Canal began, and many industrialist millionaires built their mansions here. The historic streets are filled with things to do and shops and eateries to enjoy. Refuel and recharge after a day of outdoor adventure with live entertainment and delicious food. Looking to extend your time in Lehigh Gorge? Book a stay at one of the many charming accommodations in Jim Thorpe so you'll be close to the action. While Lehigh Gorge State Park Camping is not offered within the park, there are nearby campgrounds such as the Jim Thorpe Camping Resort and Don Laine Campground.

Man biking along the Lehigh Gorge Rail Trail

Jim Thorpe

Offering both the charms of a European village and the thrills of a mountain sports destination, this historic town is one of the great gems of the Pocono Mountains.

A fall bird's-eye view of Lehighton, PA in the Pocono Mountains.

Lehighton

Just down the road from Jim Thorpe, the town of Lehighton offers outdoor adventure, restaurants, shops and more.

Explore Jim Thorpe

Photos of Lehigh Gorge State Park

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