The Pocono Mountains, located in northeastern Pennsylvania, are a renowned destination for outdoor enthusiasts. With over 2,400 square miles of breathtaking natural beauty, the region offers a wide variety of hiking trails suitable for all skill levels. From easy strolls to challenging climbs, the Poconos boast lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and panoramic vistas that attract thousands of hikers each year. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or a beginner looking to explore nature, the Poconos has something for everyone. In this article, we’ll highlight the best hikes in the Poconos, each offering unique experiences and scenic views.

Top 10 Best Places to Hike in the Poconos Mountains

1. Mount Minsi via Appalachian Trail

Location: Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area
Distance: 5.3 miles round trip
Difficulty: Moderate
Highlights: Known for its panoramic views of the Delaware Water Gap, the Mount Minsi trail is a must-hike for those looking for a moderate challenge. The trail features a steady ascent with beautiful views at the summit, making it one of the best hikes in the Poconos for stunning vistas.

2. Bushkill Falls Yellow Trail

Location: Bushkill Falls
Distance: 2 miles round trip
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Highlights: Often referred to as the “Niagara of Pennsylvania,” Bushkill Falls offers a short yet rewarding hike. This trail takes hikers past multiple waterfalls, including the famous Bushkill Falls. The trail is well-maintained, with bridges and platforms offering excellent views of the cascading water.

3. Lehigh Gorge Trail

Location: Lehigh Gorge State Park
Distance: Varies; up to 26 miles one way
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Highlights: The Lehigh Gorge Trail follows the Lehigh River, offering scenic views of the gorge, rapids, and remnants of the region’s industrial past. This trail is ideal for both hiking and biking, providing a peaceful and picturesque experience for nature lovers.

4. Big Pocono State Park – Indian Trail

Location: Big Pocono State Park
Distance: 2.5 miles round trip
Difficulty: Moderate
Highlights: The Indian Trail leads to the summit of Big Pocono Mountain, where hikers are rewarded with breathtaking views of the Pocono region, including parts of New Jersey and New York. The rocky path provides a bit of a challenge, but the stunning panoramic views make it well worth the effort.

Gravel driveway on a rural property lined with trees in the summer in the Pocono Mountains Looking down a gravel driveway on a rural property lined with trees in the summer in the Pocono Mountains, Pennsylvania Big Pocono State Park stock pictures, royalty-free photos & images

5. Dingmans Falls and Silverthread Falls

Location: Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area
Distance: 1 mile round trip
Difficulty: Easy
Highlights: This short, family-friendly trail offers an easy hike to two spectacular waterfalls: Dingmans Falls and Silverthread Falls. The trail is well-paved and features an elevated boardwalk, making it an accessible option for hikers of all ages.

6. Tobyhanna State Park – Pocono Trail

Location: Tobyhanna State Park
Distance: 3.5 miles round trip
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Highlights: This trail winds through a scenic forest landscape and offers views of several ponds. The Pocono Trail is perfect for beginner to intermediate hikers and is known for its peaceful surroundings and abundant wildlife.

7. Hickory Run State Park – Shades of Death Trail

Location: Hickory Run State Park
Distance: 3 miles round trip
Difficulty: Moderate
Highlights: The Shades of Death Trail is a short but challenging hike through dense woods and rocky terrain. The trail’s eerie name refers to the historical events associated with the area, but the hike itself is full of natural beauty, with a variety of plants and wildlife to see along the way.

8. Seven Tubs Nature Area

Location: Near Wilkes-Barre, PA
Distance: 1.5 miles round trip
Difficulty: Easy
Highlights: Known for its unique rock formations and cascading streams, the Seven Tubs Nature Area features a network of short trails that lead to several natural pools and small waterfalls. The area is perfect for a leisurely hike, with opportunities for photography and nature walks.

Shenandoah National Park - Nicholson Hollow Trail Shenandoah National Park - Nicholson Hollow Trail Seven Tubs Nature Area proconos stock pictures, royalty-free photos & images

9. Gouldsboro State Park – Big Lake Trail

Location: Gouldsboro State Park
Distance: 1.5 miles round trip
Difficulty: Easy
Highlights: This scenic trail leads around the picturesque Big Lake. Hikers can enjoy views of the water, as well as sightings of local wildlife such as birds and deer. It’s a peaceful spot to relax and enjoy nature.

10. Promised Land State Park – Laurel Trail

Location: Promised Land State Park
Distance: 4 miles round trip
Difficulty: Moderate
Highlights: The Laurel Trail is a moderate hike that takes you through a scenic forest with opportunities for birdwatching. It also passes by the beautiful Promised Land Lake, offering serene views that make it one of the best hikes in the Poconos.
(Image: Promised Land Lake on Laurel Trail)

Conclusion

The Pocono Mountains offer some of the most beautiful and diverse hiking trails in the United States, with options for all skill levels. Whether you’re looking for a challenging climb or a leisurely stroll through nature, you’ll find something to suit your preferences. For those looking to extend their hiking adventure, consider staying at Wesley Paradise, which offers a cozy cabin for rent near the Pocono Mountains. After a day of hiking, relax and recharge in the comfort of your own cabin, ready to explore more of the best hikes in the Poconos.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. What are the best hikes in the Poconos?

The best hikes in the Poconos include Mount Minsi, Bushkill Falls, Lehigh Gorge Trail, Big Pocono State Park, and the Seven Tubs Nature Area. These trails offer a mix of scenic views, waterfalls, and varied difficulty levels.

2. Is hiking in the Poconos suitable for beginners?

Yes, many of the trails in the Poconos are suitable for beginners, including Bushkill Falls Yellow Trail, Seven Tubs Nature Area, and Gouldsboro State Park. These trails are relatively short and easy, with beautiful scenery to enjoy along the way.

3. What’s the most scenic trail in the Poconos?

The Mount Minsi trail in the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area is one of the most scenic trails in the Poconos, offering sweeping views of the Delaware Water Gap and the surrounding mountains.