Achieve Peak Social Media Nature Flex on these 10 Photo-Worthy Trails
As NEPA starts greening up and the spring flowers begin to paint the landscape, suddenly we’re called to nature. Sure, we spent another winter checking in on the slopes and dining al fresco in our igloos. But, by this time of year, our social feeds are screaming out for a splash of color. And there’s no better place to find those electric blue skies, the tumbling whitewater and the lively green mountains than on the trail.
It’s safe to say the threat of a late snow or frost is finally behind us. The birds have returned. Most of the curious critters are back to business as usual. And all of our local, state and national parks are gearing up for hiking and biking season. It’s time to get back to what we do best – losing ourselves in the quiet of a dense forest, filling our lungs with cool mountain air and, of course, snapping waterfall selfies.
We’ve rounded up a handful of super-Instagram-able trails throughout NEPA. So, dig out the hiking boots. Charge the phone. And get to fillin’ that feed with all the stunning natural beauty you can find right here in our own backyard.
Falls Trail — Ricketts Glen State Park
The pristine forest of Salt Springs State Park in Montrose offers the perfect setting for enviable photos. This relatively short trail passes three waterfalls and a stunning gorge.
Lake Front Trail — Lacawac Sanctuary
The 550-acre Lacawac Sanctuary, nestled along the shores of Lake Wallenpaupack, combines wetlands, forests, meadows and lakes. This .8-mile trail brings you right along the picturesque shore of Lake Lacawac.
Cliff Trail — Prompton State Park
Prompton State Park in Prompton, PA offers plenty of warm-weather activities like fishing, hiking, boating and disc golf. On this 1.5-mile loop trail, you’ll explore a cliff outcrop on the northern end of the park.
Two-Mile Run Loop Trail — Thomas Darling Preserve
Capture nature in all its colorful glory at the Thomas Darling Preserve in Blakeslee, PA. This trail covers nearly the entirety of the preserve and includes stretches of boardwalk through vibrant bogs.
Spirit of Tuscarora Trail — Tuscarora State Park
Explore mature deciduous forests and sprawling meadows at Tuscarora State Park in Barnesville, PA. This 4.5-mile trail brings you to Tuscarora Lake and along Locust Creek and eventually to the famed “Spirit Tree.”
Red Trail — Bushkill Falls
The 300-acre Bushkill Falls, located just north of Stroudsburg, is often called the “Niagara of Pennsylvania.” Check out the 100-foot-tall Main Falls and three other equally impressive waterfalls along this 2-mile loop trail.
McDade Trail — Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area
The Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area in Bushkill, PA offers over 70,000 acres of natural beauty and recreation. And this 31-mile trail gets you closer to all of it including panoramic views of the Delaware River.
Little Falls Trail — Promised Land Sate Park
Dense, quiet forests and two lakes make up the nearly 3,000 tranquil acres of nature at Promised Land State Park in Greentown, PA. This popular, 1-mile trail traverses several waterfalls along Wallenpaupack Creek.
Oak Loop Trail — Locust Lake State Park
Hiking, fishing and boating are popular activities at Locust Lake State Park in Barnesville, PA. This 2.2-mile loop trail carries you along Locust creek to a heavily-forested ridge line offering beautiful views.
The Adventures Don't Stop There
You won’t run out of trails to explore and mountains to climb. Check out our full listing for even more hiking and biking destinations in NEPA.
Article Updated from its original version published on 5/2/2023.
Jonathan Davies
Writer
Jonathan was born and raised in NEPA. He enjoys writing about local beer, local food, fishing and hiking. He especially keeps an eye out for unique people, places and things throughout the region.