1. Poconos Mountains Overview
2. Best Hikes in the Poconos
Unfurling for almost 2400 sq miles, the Poconos Mountains in Pennsylvania is a vast outdoor playground of forest and rock that offers everything from skiing and snowshoeing to white-water rafting and biking throughout the year. It’s also packed with incredible hikes—most of the trails are quiet and peaceful.
With crashing waterfalls to discover, more than 150 lakes to circumnavigate or swim (yes, including the great Lake Wallenpaupack), and a host of wildlife to spot from bald eagles to black bears, the Poconos has it all. From leisurely strolls to expert-only treks, these are the best hikes in the Poconos Mountains.
Mount Minsi via the Appalachian Trail
Best hike for fall leaf-peeping
5 miles, 2-3 hours, moderate
The Appalachian Trail cuts across Pennsylvania for more than 229 miles, including about 45 miles through the Poconos. Starting at the village of Delaware Water Gap, this well-marked trail is open year-round. The route can be rocky at times and may become icy depending on the weather. During the colder months, consider using crampons or Yaktrax, winter traction devices designed to fit over hiking boots.
While traversing the five-mile loop, hikers will pass through enchanting rhododendron tunnels and moss-covered rocks, as well as a number of waterfalls, including the Caledonia Creek cascades. From the summit of Mount Minsi—marked by a radio tower and rocky remnants of a fire tower—there are sweeping views of the Delaware River and New Jersey’s Mount Tammany.
Upon descending, Council Rock and Lookout Rock are both prime spots for enjoying the views, especially for leaf-peeping in the fall. Dogs are welcome as long as they are on a leash.
Lock 31 Canal Trail
Best hike for exploring a historic towpath
1.6 miles, 1 hour, easy
In the 19th century, mule-pulled barges traversed the Delaware and Hudson Canal (known locally as the D&H Canal), delivering coal from Pennsylvania to New York City. Starting from Hawley, this out-and-back trail follows in their hoofsteps, running along the canal’s grassy towpath and cutting through a 16-acre park that showcases the area’s natural beauty and rich historic past.
Along the way, hikers will encounter the remnants of the original canal lock and the Daniels’ Farmhouse, a red timber home built in 1820 known as the Lock 31 House. This hike is popular with birdwatchers in the summer who look for bald eagles and other endemic species. In winter, the trail allows for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. Don’t forget to pack mosquito repellent in summer and early fall.
Dingmans Creek Trail
Best hike for families
1.4 miles, 45 minutes, easy
For a close-up view of Pennsylvania’s second-tallest waterfall, embark on this breezy hike to the 130ft-high Dingmans Falls. This trail is part of the George W. Childs Park in the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, starting at the Dingmans Falls Visitors Center (currently closed to the public) in Dingmans Ferry. Open from May to November, the center offers guided walks and nature exhibits. The recreation area itself is accessible year-round.
While the main trail is closed on weekdays for maintenance, an alternative non-wheelchair-accessible route begins behind the visitor center. If you decide to hike the primary trail on weekends, arrive early due to limited parking space.
Shortly after starting the main trail hike, hikers will observe Silverthread Falls, a slim 80ft-high cascade on the right. The route includes a hemlock ravine and rhododendron shrubs—particularly beautiful in late summer when in bloom. A majority of the trail is on a wide boardwalk, making it feasible for wheelchairs and strollers.
Upon reaching Dingmans Falls, a staircase leads to the top offering views of the upper falls and a rest area. The ease, accessibility, and scenic payoff make this a popular trail, so consider visiting on a weekday for a more tranquil experience.
Bushkill Falls Trail
Best hike for viewing waterfalls
1.8 miles, 2 hours, moderate
The Bushkill Falls comprise a series of eight waterfalls in a 300-acre wooded enclave hidden in the Poconos. Known as the Niagara Falls of Pennsylvania, this area features four trails leading to the cascades from the Bushkill Falls trailhead, varying in difficulty and duration—from the no-climb Green Trail to the more challenging, nearly two-mile Red Trail.
The Main Falls can be viewed early in the trail from the primary observation deck. To see all eight falls—including a close-up of the beautiful Bridal Veil Falls—follow the Red Trail. This picturesque trek requires a couple of hours as it involves traversing a boardwalk and climbing roughly 1200 steps.
Popular among birdwatchers, hikers may spot songbirds, owls, hawks, and eagles along the way. An exhibition at the park’s entrance highlights the endemic wildlife, including black bears. Admission costs $15 for adults and $9 for children aged four to 10.
Promised Land Boundary Trail
Best hike for spotting flora and fauna
6.3 miles, 3 hours, moderate
The 3,000-acre Promised Land State Park was historically a hunting ground for the indigenous Lenape people. Today, it boasts over 50 miles of hiking trails, including this rewarding hike along the 1800ft-high Pocono Plateau.
The trail is mainly flat but can be rocky and strenuous at times. The diverse flora, particularly in warmer months, creates a beautiful hiking experience with vibrant rhododendrons, mountain laurels, and wild blueberries complemented by forests of hemlock, oak, and maple trees.
Starting at the north end of Promised Land Lake, which is popular for fishing and boating, the trail winds around the eastern side of the water, meandering through fern fields and bubbling creeks. Keep an eye out for white-tailed deer, black bears, wild turkeys, and bald eagles.
At the lake’s southern end, the Pickerel Point campground is an ideal spot to pitch a tent and spend the night. The park is open year-round, and dogs are welcome as long as they stay on a leash.
Tobyhanna State Park Trail Loop
Best hike for summer swims
5 miles, 2-3 hours, easy
Anchored by the scenic, 170-acre Tobyhanna Lake, this state park features 10 miles of hiking trails that vary in difficulty. For an easy hiking experience to pass a morning or afternoon, follow the loop trail that encircles the lake, offering views of bogs, evergreen forests, and a variety of plant and animal life. In the spring, keep an eye out for Jefferson salamanders and wood frogs, which visit the bogs to breed.
The well-maintained pathway is suitable for trail runs, summer biking, and also for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in the winter months. From Memorial Day (the last Monday of May) to mid-September, you can conclude your hike at the sandy beach on the lake’s northeast side.
Here, you’ll find changing rooms, showers (available for a fee), restrooms, and picnic tables. Don’t forget to pack your swimwear!
