If you’re looking for a great outdoor adventure, look no further than the Poconos hiking trails. With miles of pristine trails to explore, you’re sure to find the perfect hike for your skill level and interests. But with so many options available, how do you know which trails are the best?
That’s where this Poconos hiking trails review comes in. We’ll take a look at some of the most popular trails in the area and give you our thoughts on why they’re worth checking out. So whether you’re a beginner or an experienced hiker, read on for some best hiking Poconos trail recommendations!
The Poconos mountain area is an ideal outdoor travel experience for adventure enthusiasts! There are thousands of miles of beautiful walking paths in this area. Whether you want to enjoy the hike to your favorite waterfall or find the perfect place to enjoy with your pet, you’ll find plenty of options with the best hiking Poconos.
Bushkill Falls
Bushkill Falls is a privately owned place that has something for everyone! From a miniature golf course to a maze, you’ll find plenty to keep you entertained. However, the park’s main highlight is the selection of hiking trails. There’s a good reason it’s one of the most popular places to see Poconos Falls! There are four paths in total, each with different lengths and difficulties. Regardless of which route you choose, you’ll get a clear view of at least one of the eight waterfalls located within the park.
The easiest and shortest green path is among the options. In total, it took about 15 minutes to complete. Without any climbing, although there are steps, you should be able to see the main falls from this path.
The yellow trail is steeper and longer, taking about 45 minutes and allowing you to see Main Falls, Lower Gorge Falls, Lauren Glen and Upper Canyon. You can also see an “exhibition” of wildlife when you choose to go this route.
The blue path leads you to Pennell Falls and takes over an hour to complete.
Finally, the red trail is the hardest to conquer. It will lead you through the entire park and span nearly 2 miles. It includes all eight falls and usually takes more than two hours for a walk.
Bushkill Falls takes 40 minutes to drive from Ledges Hotel and is open every day of the week, from 9 am to 7 pm.
Is Bushkill Falls a difficult hike? Bushkill Falls can be considered a difficult hike, it takes an average of 47 min to complete, depending on the route you choose. The shortest and easiest path is green, while the longest and most difficult is red.
The cost to walk Bushkill Falls is $15 for adults and $9 for children. Admission is +$3 on weekends. Bushkill Falls is one of the best hiking Poconos for those wanting to explore nature, witness stunning waterfalls and enjoy some recreational activities. Whether you choose the easy green route or challenge yourself with red, you’re sure to have a great experience! Enjoy your next outdoor adventure at one of the best Poconos hiking trails.
Delaware Water Gap
The Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area – one of the best hiking Pocono mountains – includes 70,000 acres of protected land along with Pennsylvania and New Jersey. The park is approximately 40 miles long and runs along the Delaware River and the Appalachian Mountains.
These mountain ranges are close to the river, making them a perfect spot for hiking and nature lovers alike. It is home to part of the Appalachian Trail in the Poconos complex and kilometers of other scenic walks. The area is divided into three parts: north, middle and south.
Although the northern part is closest to Ledges Hotel, about 35 minutes away, the southern roads are well worth the drive if you’re looking for a quick day trip. Most parks are open 24 hours a day.
The Delaware Water Gap is not a hard hike. It is a great place for beginner hikers and those who want to enjoy a scenic walk. There are many different trails to choose from, and most of them are not difficult. The only exception is the Mount Tammany Red Dot Trail, which is strenuous.
The Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area is known for its dense black bear population. Bears can be found throughout the park, but are most commonly seen near the river and in the wooded areas. Feeding or approaching bears is illegal, so please remember to store your food properly and dispose of trash responsibly.
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The Appalachian National Scenic Trail
The Appalachian Trail can take anywhere from 5 to 7 months to complete, depending on the hiker’s experience and skill level. 28 miles of the Appalachian National Scenic Trail stretches through the Delaware Creek. This distance is divided into 16 easy-to-medium paths, most of them located in New Jersey. However, don’t let that discourage you! Mountaintop Lodge is less than a 30-minute drive from the Delaware Water Gap.
Beginners can hike the Appalachian Trail. There are numerous mountains to scale and gorgeous views to enjoy. However, it is important to choose a path that is appropriate for your skill level.
The cost of hiking the Appalachian Trail can range from $5,000 to $7,000. This includes the cost of gear and expected expenses from visits to towns. Expenses can be broken into several categories including the trail expenses, gear costs, and town visits.
The best month to hike the Appalachian Trail is in the spring, specifically between April and the first week of May. This is when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller.
The hardest part of hiking the Appalachian Trail is the initial ascent up Katahdin. This 4,000-foot climb is a scramble, and can be difficult for inexperienced hikers.
Promised Land State Park
The name tells everything! Promised Land State Park is an idyllic spot near Hawley, PA. With over 50 miles of hiking in the park and surrounding woodland, you’ll find plenty to explore and enjoy during your visit. This park includes many beautiful natural features that Pennsylvania is blessed with, such as glacial lakes and small waterfalls. From mid-May to mid-June, you’ll see an array of flowers in bloom. During the month of October, autumn leaf-viewers come from all over the region to see the changing colors! Promised Land State Park is one of my favorite places to hike with pets, so be sure to visit if you’re traveling with your four-legged friend.
One of the most popular recreational trails in the park is the Bruce Natural Lake area trail. This detour runs for approximately 14 miles and winds through the Delaware State Forest, Bruce Natural Lake area, and Promised Land State Park.
Another popular route in the park is the Little Falls Trail. This is a much easier trail than the Lake Bruce Trail and winds through Wallenpaupack Creek and the small waterfall for which the trail is named. Bring your camera to capture these amazing sights!
The most popular final trail in the park is the Conservation Island detour. Grab a free guidebook from the park office and go hiking on your own.
Promised Land State Park is just a 20-minute drive from Ledges Hotel. It is open every day of the week from sunrise to sunset.
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Wallenpaupack Lake Trail
Head to the Wallenpaupack Lake Trail if you just want a simple hike with stunning views. This is a favorite with Hawley residents, especially those who want a quiet stroll and enjoy the surroundings. During the 2-mile hike, you’ll get great views of the beautiful lake, explore some of the Wallenpaupack creeks, and cross the Wallenpaupack Dam.
Tobyhanna State Park
Named after Lake Tobyhanna, the park features three main hiking trails ranging from easy to difficult.
The lakeside trail is the easiest. This detour is over 5 miles long and surrounds Lake Tobyhanna. Most roads are stiff, making it easy for hiking and biking in the summer. In winter, it’s a popular spot for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
The Range Trail is a bit more difficult and is almost 7 miles in total. Unlike the Lakeside Trail, the Range Trail should not be attempted without good footwear. You will be crossing some wet areas, so it is recommended that you wear good, watertight boots.
If you want a challenging hike, cross the Frank Gantz Trail. There are many places where hikers have to “rock jump” along this road. However, the route itself is well maintained. Don’t forget your hiking boots!
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Dingmans Falls
On your ride, you’ll marvel at Silverthread Falls, an 80-foot waterfall so perfect you’d swear it was man-made, and Dingmans Falls, the second tallest waterfall in Pennsylvania at 130 feet. If you want a workout, climb the steps to the top of Dingmans Falls. This place is sure to bring you surprise and delight because of its majestic beauty.
Huckleberry Mountain
Huckleberry MountainMountain is located at an elevation of about 5.5 miles. This is a trail that leads to a wooded area and large grassland with views of the mountains of the Glacier Peak Wilderness. Huckleberry Trail is considered a romantic place because the sweeping views from the tip of Mount Hood north to the grassy landscape of Mount Huckleberry offer a number of opportunities for exploration. Here you can see the ledge used by the Kalapuya Indians to the south. In addition, this place also owns an open space, which is home to many chrysanthemum trees, old trees and rhododendrons. And don’t forget the trail down to the Huckleberry Lake basin.
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Slateford Loop
If you’re looking for an easy walk, look for the Slateford Loop! It’s 3 miles in total and is a great spot for cross-country skiing in the snow season. You’ll see an old fashioned slate quarry and ranch during your hike, which makes this a great choice for history buffs!
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Northern Section
The Milford Knob Trail is a scenic woodland route near the town of Milford. The total distance is a little over 3 miles and is rated medium to difficult. This backpacking trip should be most experienced in the spring when wild sunflowers begin to bloom.
The slightly less challenging Cliff Trail is located near Milford, PA and is known for its stunning views. Dogs are welcome to hike with you, although they must be on a leash.
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Middle Section
The Scenic Gorge Trail is a great choice for travelers looking to learn about the area’s natural features. It is located near the Pocono Center for Environmental Education and should be part of your itinerary if you plan to visit that wonderful attraction. During the hike, you will be able to experience first-hand the difference between the maple forest ecosystem and the dark and cool sycamore forest ecosystem. You’ll also be able to see a small stream and waterfall along this easy 2-mile detour.
If you want to see a beautiful waterfall, head to the Buttermilk Falls Trail in the Delaware Water Gap. It’s considered moderately difficult, with a steep climb, but it’s well worth the trip to see one of the tallest waterfalls in New Jersey. In total, it’s about a 3-mile walk, to go there and back.
Southern Section
The Dunnfield Creek Trail is a total of 7 miles on foot and follows the creek for which it is named. Dunnfield Creek is important for native stream trout populations. It winds through ravines and waterfalls. There are sections of the road that cross the stream, so be sure to wear sturdy and waterproof shoes.
FAQs
What is the best time to visit Poconos mountains?
There’s no bad time of year for the best hiking in Poconos PA. The area offers a variety of trails and hikes suited to different levels of difficulty, so everyone can find something that suits their needs. Whether you are looking for an easy loop or a more challenging backpacking trip, there is something for you in the Poconos.
Are there bears in the Poconos mountains?
Because bears are prevalent in many areas near here, be cautious while adventuring in nature. Make sure to take any garbage with you and clean up after yourself, so that the Poconos can remain a beautiful habitat for area wildlife.
Conclusion
The best hiking Poconos above can be ideal attractions for you and your family when making a plan for a vacation. So, what is your favorite attraction in your life? Let us know.