The best walks and hikes in Carbon County

The Glen Onoko Falls and Lehigh Gorge Overlook Trail offers a challenging journey through lush forests, leading to expansive views over the Lehigh River. You'll navigate rugged, rocky, and steep terrain, with significant elevation changes and many stone steps, especially at the start. The highlight is undoubtedly the Lehigh Gorge Overlook, providing stunning vistas of the winding river and the distant town of Jim Thorpe, a truly rewarding sight after the climb.

Before heading out, be aware that the direct Glen Onoko Falls trail has been permanently closed since May 1, 2019, due to safety concerns, and trespassing is strictly prohibited. Focus on the open trails like the Lehigh Gorge Overlook Trail. The route is considered on the harder side of moderate, with 965 feet (294 metres) of elevation gain over 3.0 miles (4.8 km), taking about 1 hour and 49 minutes, so it's best suited for experienced hikers.

This area is known for its dramatic elevation changes over a relatively short distance, providing a strenuous workout. Historically, the Glen Onoko Falls were a major attraction, and while the main falls trail is closed, the accessible sections still offer a vigorous outdoor experience. The trail is particularly popular during peak fall foliage for its vibrant colors and dramatic mountain views.

The Tank Hollow Trail offers an easy 3.2-mile (5.2 km) hike with a gentle 238 feet (73 metres) of elevation gain, taking around 1 hour and 24 minutes to complete. You'll wander through mixed oak, pine, and hemlock woodlands, passing mountain laurel and rhododendron thickets, before reaching the Tank Hollow Overlook. This viewpoint provides expansive, panoramic views of the Lehigh River Valley and the river's distinctive horseshoe bend.

Planning your visit requires a few considerations. Since the trail is in State Game Lands #141, wearing blaze orange is strongly advised during hunting seasons. Parking can be variable, with gates sometimes open for closer access, so be prepared for a potentially longer walk to the trailhead. Given the possibility of muddy sections, especially after rain, appropriate footwear is recommended.

The Tank Hollow Overlook is widely considered one of the most scenic views in the Poconos, making this an excellent choice for a high-reward, low-effort outing. Beyond the main overlook, you can also explore a hidden, multi-tiered waterfall, adding another unique natural feature to your adventure.

Embark on a moderate hike along the Sand Spring, Fireline, and Skyline Trail, a route that spans 8.0 miles (12.8 km) and involves a total elevation gain of 915 feet (279 metres). You can expect to complete this journey in approximately 3 hours and 38 minutes. As you traverse the Sand Spring section, you will find yourself surrounded by a dense forest, notable for its abundant rhododendrons. The path also follows the scenic Hickory Run, leading you to the unique Sand Spring, where water gently bubbles up through white sand into a clear pool. Further along, the Fireline and Skyline Trails ascend to ridges, providing expansive views over the Lehigh River and the surrounding state gamelands.

The trail is conveniently located within Hickory Run State Park, which typically provides straightforward access for hikers. While there are no specific warnings regarding permits or seasonal closures for this particular route, it is always wise to consult the park's official website before your visit. This ensures you have the most up-to-date information on any potential advisories, parking availability, or changes to park operations. Planning ahead will help you make the most of your hiking experience.

This route offers a diverse hiking experience, showcasing the natural beauty of Hickory Run State Park. The trail's distinct sections, from the tranquil Sand Spring to the elevated Fireline and Skyline paths, provide varied scenery and perspectives. It is a great option if you are looking to explore different facets of the park's landscape, including its unique hydrological features and panoramic vistas. The combination of forest, water features, and ridge views makes this a well-rounded adventure.

The Switchback Trail near Jim Thorpe offers a unique journey along a historic gravity railroad, providing a pleasant experience on a hard-packed dirt surface. You'll enjoy scenic stretches alongside Mauch Chunk Lake for about half a mile, transitioning into lush forested areas, and even catch views from a bluff overlooking the charming community of Jim Thorpe. It's a great option for a relaxed outing, blending natural beauty with a sense of the past.

This moderate 5.0-mile (8.0 km) hiking route, with a gentle 213 feet (65 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 2 hours and 6 minutes to complete. As a Rails-to-Trails path, it's generally well-maintained and accessible, making it suitable for walkers and hikers of varying experience levels. While specific parking information isn't detailed, trailheads for such routes are usually well-marked and easy to find.

What truly sets this trail apart is its rich history as the Switchback Gravity Railroad, once known as "The Switzerland of America." It's considered the most historic among Pennsylvania's Rails-to-Trails Conservancy, offering a tangible connection to the region's industrial past. This makes it a compelling choice for those interested in both outdoor activity and local heritage, providing more than just a walk in the woods.

Embark on the Blue, Fireline, and Hickory Run Trail Loop, a difficult 13.6-mile (21.8 km) hike that takes about 6 hours and 9 minutes to complete. You will gain 1362 feet (415 metres) in elevation as you explore diverse terrain. Expect to wander through lush forests filled with chestnut oak, mountain laurel, and rhododendron, offering vibrant blooms in summer and striking fall colors. The Fireline Trail provides a picturesque overlook of the Lehigh River and Lehigh Gorge State Park, a great spot to catch a sunset. Be ready for varied conditions, as the Blue Trail can be wet after rain, and the Fireline Trail has steep, rocky sections.

Before you head out, plan for a full day on this challenging route. Parking is generally available at the Blue, Fireline, and Hickory Run Trailhead, but it's always wise to check park resources for the latest access details. Given the difficult rating and duration, make sure you are well-prepared with enough water and supplies. The trail is especially beautiful during summer for its blooms and in mid-October for spectacular fall foliage, so consider visiting during these times.

This trail offers more than just natural beauty; you will also encounter historical remnants from logging and the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) era, adding a layer of past stories to your journey. Along the Hickory Run Trail, keep an eye out for wildflowers and butterflies in a field that was once a picnic area. This loop provides a comprehensive experience of Hickory Run State Park's varied landscapes and history, making it a notable adventure in the region.

Prepare for a challenging hike on the Appalachian Trail from Bake Oven Knob to Lehigh Gap, a route known for its rugged "Rocksylvania" terrain. You will navigate over small boulders and encounter demanding footing throughout this difficult 9.1-mile (14.7 km) journey. Expect significant elevation changes, with 696 feet (212 metres) of climbing, taking around 5 hours and 10 minutes to complete. The trail rewards your effort with abundant scenic vistas, including a magnificent 180-degree panoramic view of the Lehigh Valley from Bake Oven Knob.

Accessing the start of the Appalachian Trail at Bake Oven Knob is straightforward, with a nearby parking lot available for your convenience. Be aware that the descent into Lehigh Gap is particularly challenging and can become very slippery, especially if conditions are wet or icy. If you are hiking in adverse weather, a specific "Winter Trail" bypass offers an alternative to the steepest section. Remember to plan your water supply carefully, as sources near shelters can sometimes be scarce along this route.

This section of the Appalachian Trail offers a classic example of the demanding, rocky terrain found in this region. The route is situated within State Game Lands 217, providing a wild and undeveloped hiking experience. While the trail is popular, its rugged nature ensures a true wilderness feel. This hike is a great way to experience a significant portion of the Appalachian Trail's unique character in Pennsylvania.

The Bald Mountain Vista Trail offers a picturesque and secluded hiking experience through Lehigh Gorge State Park. You'll traverse diverse terrain, from wide forest roads through old-growth woods to narrower, rocky paths along the mountain's cliff side. The route provides stunning vista views of the Lehigh River and its deep gorge, with some viewpoints offering unique perspectives towards Tank Hollow Vista, often framed by pine trees.

This moderate 8.1-mile (13.1 km) hike involves 719 feet (219 metres) of elevation gain and typically takes about 3 hours and 36 minutes. The trail is accessed from the Bald Mountain Loop Trail, and while it promises tranquility, be prepared for potentially icy and wet conditions during colder seasons. Checking trail conditions is always a good idea for this Bald Mountain Vista Trail hiking guide.

What sets this trail apart is its relative seclusion, providing a quiet alternative to more crowded park areas. It's a fantastic option for those seeking peace and a chance to reflect amidst nature's beauty, away from the hustle and bustle. The changing forest types, from pitch pine and hemlock to hardwoods on the ridges, add to the scenic appeal.

The Lehigh Gorge Trail offers a delightful and easy hiking experience along the Lehigh River, perfect for a relaxed outing. You'll follow an abandoned railroad corridor, meaning the path is notably flat and gentle, mostly crushed stone or hard-packed gravel. Expect continuous river views, lush forests, and towering rock cliffs, with the chance to spot waterfalls like Buttermilk Falls cascading down the gorge walls. This 2.3-mile (3.7 km) hike, with a minimal 156 feet (48 metres) of elevation gain, is rated easy and takes about 58 minutes, making it ideal for families and beginners.

Planning your visit to the Lehigh Gorge Trail is simple, as it's highly accessible with various parking access points. While this specific route is a short out-and-back, the trail is part of the larger D&L Trail system, and shuttle services are available for those looking to do longer point-to-point sections. The trail is particularly popular in the fall when the vibrant foliage creates a spectacular display, but it offers scenic beauty in any season.

This trail is a significant section of the 165-mile Delaware & Lehigh (D&L) Trail, connecting communities and landmarks across eastern Pennsylvania. Beyond its natural beauty, you'll also encounter historic remnants of the Upper Grand Section of the Lehigh Canal and other industrial past features, adding a unique historical dimension to your walk. Its gentle grade and wide surface make it wheelchair and stroller-friendly in many sections, ensuring a pleasant experience for a wide range of users.

Embark on the Palmerton Zinc Loop, a moderate hiking route spanning 7.9 miles (12.7 km) with an elevation gain of 680 feet (207 metres), typically completed in 3 hours and 39 minutes. You will encounter very rocky terrain, including sections of rock scrambles, as you climb out of Lehigh Gap. The trail offers wide vistas of the valley below from the ridges, showcasing a landscape undergoing significant ecological recovery.

When planning your visit, be prepared for the challenging, rocky sections that require careful footing. It is advisable to carry ample water, as some natural springs in this area can be unreliable. Ensure you wear appropriate hiking footwear to navigate the varied and sometimes demanding surfaces.

This route is situated within State Game Lands Number 168 and holds a unique environmental history. The trail passes through what was once the Palmerton Zinc Pile Superfund Site, highlighting ongoing cleanup and restoration efforts. You will observe a distinctive blend of natural beauty and the visible effects of past pollution, making it a notable example of ecological revitalization.