Attractions and Places To See around Plains - Top 12

The Plains area offers several natural attractions. You can visit Campbells Ledge Reservoir, a serene 25-acre lake with excellent views, especially at sunset. Another significant natural area is Frances Slocum State Park, which features a lake and opportunities for fishing, kayaking, hiking, and mountain biking. The Susquehanna River, one of the longest rivers along the East Coast, also runs through the region, offering various recreational activities.

Yes, the Market Street Bridge is a magnificent man-made landmark. Built in the early 1900s, it spans 1,400 feet across the Susquehanna River, connecting Wilkes-Barre and Kingston. It features massive pylons topped with 5,500-pound eagle statues, paying tribute to World War I veterans, and offers a spectacular backdrop for photos.

The Plains area is great for various outdoor activities. You can enjoy hiking, running, and cycling. For hiking, consider trails like the Lakeshore, Campground and Larch Tree Trail Loop or the Back Mountain Trail. Runners might enjoy the Market Street Bridge – Susquehanna River loop. Cyclists have options like the Luzerne County Levee and Rail Trail Loop or the Frances Slocum State Park loop. You can find more details on these routes in the respective guides for hiking, running, and cycling around Plains.

Absolutely! Several attractions are suitable for families. Campbells Ledge Reservoir offers a scenic hike around its perimeter, which can be enjoyed by families. Market Street Bridge is a popular spot for walking and sightseeing. Frances Slocum State Park is particularly family-friendly, with opportunities for fishing, kayaking, hiking, mountain biking, and a large day-use and picnic area. The Susquehanna River also provides various recreational activities for all ages.

For easy hiking, you can explore the Lakeshore, Campground and Larch Tree Trail Loop, which is approximately 6.4 km long. Another easy option is the Seven Tubs Main Loop, a shorter trail around 0.6 km. These trails are great for beginners or those looking for a relaxed walk. You can find more hiking options in the hiking guide for Plains.

For Campbells Ledge Reservoir, parking is allowed on Coxton Road, with two trail gates providing access to the reservoir. The state land gate allows public entry to this scenic area.

Visitors particularly appreciate the serene settings and excellent views, especially at places like Campbells Ledge Reservoir around sunset. The historical significance and impressive architecture of the Market Street Bridge, with its eagle statues, are also highly valued for sightseeing and photography. The diverse recreational opportunities at Frances Slocum State Park, from hiking to kayaking, are also a big draw.

Yes, the Maconaquah Trail is a fantastic multi-use, single-track trail popular with both hikers and mountain bikers. It passes through open fields, pine forests, and historic stone walls, offering opportunities to see wildlife. This trail also connects to several shorter trails, allowing for extended adventures.

While specific seasonal tips are not available, the variety of outdoor activities like hiking, running, and cycling suggests that spring, summer, and fall would be ideal for visiting. These seasons generally offer pleasant weather for exploring lakes, parks, and trails. Winter might be suitable for some activities, but conditions could vary.

The guide data does not explicitly state dog-friendly policies for all attractions. However, state parks and many outdoor trails often allow dogs on leashes. It's always recommended to check the specific rules for each location, such as Frances Slocum State Park or Campbells Ledge Reservoir, before visiting with your pet.

For longer hikes, you can explore the Back Mountain Trail, which is approximately 11.1 km long, or the Campground, Larch Tree, Maconaquah, Doe to Lakeshore Trail, spanning about 17.6 km. The Luzerne County Levee Trail also offers a moderate hike of around 13.4 km. These routes provide more extensive exploration of the area's natural beauty. More details can be found in the hiking guide for Plains.