Explore the Beauty of the Poconos Mountains
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 across the calendar. It’s also filled with incredible hikes, and 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 stretches across Pennsylvania for more than 229 miles, including 45 miles through the Poconos. Beginning at the village of Delaware Water Gap, this well-marked trail is open year-round. The route can be rocky at times and, depending on the weather, icy too. Therefore, during the colder months, it’s advisable to wear crampons or Yaktrax, a winter traction device that fits over your hiking boots.
While traversing the five-mile loop, you’ll 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.
After descending, Council Rock and Lookout Rock are both prime spots to take in the views, particularly for leaf-peeping in the fall. Dogs are welcome as long as they’re 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 hoof steps, running along the canal’s grassy towpath and cutting through a 16-acre park that showcases the area’s natural beauty and rich history.
As you pass the remnants of the original canal lock and the Daniels’ Farmhouse—an 1820 red timber home known as the Lock 31 House—this hike is popular among birdwatchers in the summer who look for bald eagles and other native species. During winter, the trail adapts well for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. Moreover, remember to pack mosquito repellant in the summer and early fall.
Dingmans Creek Trail
Best hike for families
1.4 miles, 45 minutes, easy
For a close-up of Pennsylvania’s second-tallest waterfall, embark on this easy hike to the 130ft-high Dingmans Falls. This beautiful route is part of the George W. Childs Park in the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area. The trek begins at the Dingmans Falls Visitors Center (currently closed to the public) in Dingmans Ferry. Open May-November, the center usually offers guided walks and nature exhibits, while the recreation area is open year-round.
The main trail is currently closed on weekdays for maintenance; however, there is an alternative (non-wheelchair accessible) route that begins behind the visitor center. If you decide to hike the main trail on weekends, show up early, as the parking lot fills quickly.
Just after the start of the main trail, you’ll see Silverthread Falls, a slim, 80ft-high cascade on the right. Hikers will then pass a hemlock ravine and some rhododendron shrubs—visit in late summer when they’re in bloom. The most accessible part of the trail is on a wide boardwalk, making it suitable for wheelchairs and strollers.
Once you reach Dingmans Falls, there’s a staircase leading to the top for views of the upper falls and a rest area. The ease, accessibility, and view payoff make this a popular trail, so consider visiting on a weekday for fewer crowds.
Bushkill Falls Trail
Best hike for seeing waterfalls
1.8 miles, 2 hours, moderate
The Bushkill Falls consists of a series of eight breathtaking waterfalls situated in a 300-acre wooded enclave hidden among the Poconos. Known as the Niagara Falls of Pennsylvania, there are four trails that lead to the cascades from the Bushkill Falls trailhead, each varying in difficulty and duration—from the 15-minute, no-climb Green Trail to the more strenuous nearly two-mile Red Trail.
The Main Falls can be observed from the primary observation deck visible early in the trail. However, to experience all eight falls—including the stunning Bridal Veil Falls—follow the Red Trail. You’ll need a couple of hours to traverse the boardwalk and climb approximately 1200 steps.
With abundant birdwatching opportunities, it’s likely to encounter songbirds, owls, hawks, and even eagles along the way. An exhibition at the park’s entrance also highlights the area’s endemic wildlife, including black bears. The entry fee is $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 once a hunting ground for the indigenous Lenape people. Today, it boasts more than 50 miles of hiking trails, including this rewarding hike along the 1800ft-high Pocono Plateau.
The trail is largely flat but rocky and strenuous at times. The rich flora, especially in the warmer months, makes for a beautiful hike as rhododendron, mountain laurel, and wild blueberries adorn a forest filled with hemlock, oak, and maple trees.
Starting at the north end of Promised Land Lake, popular for fishing and boating, the trail winds around the eastern side of the water, passing fern fields and bubbling creeks. Keep an eye out for white-tailed deer, black bears, wild turkeys, and bald eagles.
At the southern end of the lake, the Pickerel Point campground is a perfect place to pitch a tent and spend the night. The park is open year-round, and dogs are welcome, provided they are 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 are suitable for all skill levels. For a relaxed hike that will take a morning or afternoon, follow the trail loop that circumnavigates the lake and passes through bogs, evergreen forests, and diverse plant and animal life. In spring, keep an eye out for Jefferson salamanders and wood frogs which come to the bogs to breed.
The well-maintained path makes the route excellent for trail runs and summertime biking as well as cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in the winter. From Memorial Day (the last Monday of May) to mid-September, finish your hike at the sandy beach on the northeast side of the lake, where you can find changing rooms, showers (accessible for a fee), and restrooms, along with picnic tables. It’s advisable to pack your swimwear for a refreshing dip.
