4.6
(8)
102
hikers
17
hikes
Hiking around East Side features a landscape characterized by forested hills, river valleys, and historic rail trails. The region offers a mix of moderate climbs and longer, flatter paths, often following waterways. Elevation gains are present, with some routes reaching over 400 meters, providing varied terrain for hikers.
Last updated: August 17, 2026
6
hikers
12.8km
03:38
280m
280m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
hikers
21.8km
06:10
420m
510m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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1
hikers
40.3km
10:27
170m
360m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.45km
00:59
50m
120m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
7
hikers
13.3km
03:40
220m
220m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Luke's Falls fall a short 20 feet into the Lehigh River. However, the location along the D&L Rail Trail is a fun spot to ride to along a calm, quiet, riverside path.
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The Lehigh River is 109 miles long and flows to the Delaware River. It runs through the Pocono Mountains and the Lehigh Valley.
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Buttermilk Falls is one of many falls that can be seen along the Lehigh Trail, which is a section of the 165-mile D&L Trail.
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Lukes Falls is a small waterfall along Lehigh Gorge Trail. The Lehigh River is directly across the trail from this waterfall.
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Jim Thorpe was once a thriving coal town, which can be seen in the abandoned tunnels scattered around the hills in the area. This cavern cannot be accessed by the public.
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Luke's Falls are a short walk from the Rockport Parking Area in Lehigh Gorge Park. The waterfall drops 20 feet into the Leigh River.
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Buttermilk Falls are a series of cascading waterfalls that drop over 60 feet to the Leigh River. The falls are easily accessible from the nearby parking lot via the D&L Trail.
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East Side offers a diverse network of over 15 hiking trails. These routes vary in difficulty, providing options for different experience levels, from easy strolls to more challenging long-distance paths.
Yes, East Side has several easy trails perfect for beginners. There are 7 routes classified as easy, offering gentle terrain and shorter distances. While specific easy routes aren't detailed in the top recommendations, you can explore the full range of options on komoot to find one that suits your comfort level.
Absolutely. East Side features several excellent loop trails. For a moderate experience, consider the Sand Spring and Pine Hill Trail Loop, which covers 13.3 km. If you're looking for a more challenging option, the Blue, Fireline, and Hickory Run Trail Loop is a difficult 21.8 km route through dense woodlands.
The East Side region is known for its natural beauty, including several waterfalls. You can discover stunning cascades like Buttermilk Falls and Luke's Falls. Many trails also follow river valleys and pass through forested hills, offering picturesque views of the landscape.
Yes, East Side is home to significant long-distance trails. The Lehigh Gorge Trail is a challenging 30.7 km route, and the D&L Trail: White Haven to Jim Thorpe offers an even longer, difficult hike spanning over 40 km. These trails often follow historic rail lines and river paths.
The hiking trails in East Side are highly regarded by the komoot community, boasting an average rating of 4.6 stars from over 9 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the diverse scenery, which includes forested hills, river valleys, and well-maintained paths, making for a rewarding outdoor experience.
While specific viewpoints aren't highlighted for every trail, the region's characteristic forested hills and river valleys mean many routes offer scenic vistas. Trails like the Sand Spring, Fireline, and Skyline Trail often feature open sections that provide glimpses of the broader landscape.
Given the region's forested hills and river valleys, spring and autumn are generally ideal for hiking in East Side. Spring brings lush greenery and blooming wildflowers, while autumn offers vibrant fall foliage. Summer can be pleasant, but be prepared for warmer temperatures, especially on exposed sections. Winter hiking is possible, but conditions can vary, with snow and ice requiring appropriate gear.
Yes, some trails pass near or through small settlements. For instance, the D&L Trail connects White Haven to Jim Thorpe, offering opportunities to access amenities like cafes or shops in these towns. It's always a good idea to check the specific route details for nearby services.
The terrain in East Side is varied, characterized by forested hills, river valleys, and historic rail trails. You can expect a mix of moderate climbs and longer, flatter paths, often following waterways. Elevation gains are present, with some routes reaching over 400 meters, providing a good challenge for hikers.
Yes, East Side is known for its historic rail trails. The Lehigh Gorge Trail and the D&L Trail are prime examples, offering relatively flat and well-maintained paths that follow former railway lines, often alongside scenic rivers.


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