The Pocono Mountains region of Pennsylvania boasts some of the most jaw-dropping sighs in the state. Whether you want to mosey around the forest or challenge yourself with trail running, there are miles of scenic hiking trails in the Poconos for you to explore! With so many state parks and recreation areas in the Poconos, it can be difficult to decide which hikes in the Poconos you must see during your next vacation. Read on for more information on five of the best Poconos hiking trails! 

When you’re ready to start planning your trip, get a copy of our free Poconos Vacation Guide. This handy guide is filled with local insight on the best places to visit and things to do during your trip! 

5 Breathtaking Hikes in the Poconos

1. Bushkill Falls 

Bushkill Falls is a privately-owned park centered around eight waterfalls. If you’re in search of incredible waterfalls near the Poconos, be sure to visit this park, as it is also known as the “Niagara of Pennsylvania.” 

There are four trails at Bushkill Falls that vary in difficulty. The easier routes still afford you excellent vantage points of some waterfalls, but not all of them. For that, you’ll have to traverse the longest path, the Red Trail. As you stroll along these paths, keep an eye out for the wildlife! Bird watching is another popular activity here.   

2. Delaware Water Gap 

This protected national recreational area spans over 70,000 acres. There are several educational and historical sites in the Delaware Water Gap as well as an abundance of outdoor recreation. 

3. The Appalachian National Scenic Trail 

28 miles of the Appalachian Trail stretch through the Delaware Water Gap. This distance is broken up into 16 trails which range from easy to moderately difficult, and most of them are in New Jersey. Don’t let that discourage you, though! Mountaintop Lodge is less than a 30-minute drive from the Delaware Water Gap.   

Northern Trails 

Trails through the northern section of the Delaware Water Gap run through forests and fields, alongside rivers, and up to scenic views of waterfalls and distant panoramas. Some of the trails are closed annually between February and July for resource protection, so be sure to check before you go to see which ones are open. 

Lehigh Gorge State Park 

Lehigh Gorge State Park spans over 4,000 acres. The most distinguishing feature of this state park is the gorge resulting from Lehigh River carving through the surrounding rock. Whitewater rafting is a popular activity here, but don’t overlook the fantastic Glen Onoko Falls and Lehigh Gorge Overlook Trail! Be sure to bring your camera along to snap pictures of the waterfall from several different viewpoints along this loop trail. 

4. Promised Land State Park 

Explore 50 miles of forested hiking trails at Promised Land State Park. Take the Bruce Lake Trail around a natural glacial lake as you take in the sights of the various hemlock, beech, oak, and maple trees. Or, explore the Conservation Island Loop, a peaceful stroll around Conservation Island with the lake surrounding you!  

5. Wallenpaupack Lake Trail 

You don’t have to go to the beach to enjoy beautiful water views. Lake Wallenpaupack is a great destination for Poconos sightseeing. This freshwater lake in the Poconos encompasses more than 50 miles of shoreline and features a variety of great outdoor activities, including hiking trails. Wallenpaupack Lake Trail is an easy, 2.6-mile trail along the lake that’s popular among locals and visitors! 

Rest Your Legs at Mountaintop Lodge at Lake Naomi 

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