The best walks and hikes in Pike County

Pike County, Pennsylvania, offers a vast network of hiking opportunities. The Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area alone features over 100 miles of trails, including a significant portion of the Appalachian Trail. Our guide currently highlights 6 routes, ranging from easy strolls to moderate challenges, but there are many more to explore across the county's state and federal lands.

Yes, Pike County has numerous easy trails suitable for families. The Fort Hill Gorge Trail is an easy option, and the region is known for gentle paths like the Raymondskill Falls loop, which is a 3.8-mile trail leading to Pennsylvania's tallest waterfall, and the Milford Knob loop, offering scenic views over the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area.

Many trails in Pike County are dog-friendly, especially within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area. However, it's always best to check specific trail regulations before you go, as some areas or state parks may have restrictions or require dogs to be on a leash. Always practice Leave No Trace principles and clean up after your pet.

Pike County is famous for its stunning waterfalls. You can visit Pennsylvania's tallest, Raymondskill Falls, or explore Dingmans Falls and Silverthread Falls. Bushkill Falls, often called the 'Niagara of Pennsylvania,' is another popular destination, though it's a privately-owned nature park. The Falls Trail in our guide is an easy route that can lead you to beautiful cascades.

Yes, many trails in Pike County are designed as loops, offering varied scenery without retracing your steps. Examples include the Raymondskill Falls loop, the Milford Knob loop, and the Tumbling Waters loop near the Pocono Environmental Education Center. Our guide also features the Fort Hill loop from Stultz Hill, an easy circular hike.

Pike County's terrain is diverse, ranging from gentle river valleys and dense woodlands to mountain ridges within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area. While many trails are easy with minimal elevation gain, such as the Ohio Brush Creek Hiking Trail, more challenging routes like the Scioto Trail Challenge Loop can feature moderate climbs and descents, offering rewarding views.

Pike County offers excellent hiking opportunities year-round. Spring brings lush greenery and blooming rhododendrons, while summer is ideal for enjoying the waterfalls and river activities. Fall foliage is spectacular, making it a very popular time for scenic hikes. Winter hiking can be beautiful, especially after a snowfall, but requires appropriate gear and caution.

Beyond the stunning natural beauty, Pike County is rich in points of interest. Within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, you can find hemlock ravines, unique ridgetop cacti, and diverse wildlife. The region also has historical significance, being home to Gifford Pinchot's residence in Milford, a key figure in the American Conservation Movement. Many trails offer scenic overlooks of the Delaware River valley.

Public transport options directly to many remote trailheads in Pike County can be limited. It is generally recommended to have a car for convenient access to the diverse hiking opportunities throughout the region, especially for trails within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area or state parks. Some larger towns like Milford may have limited local services.

The hiking experiences in Pike County are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the region's abundant natural beauty, the impressive waterfalls, and the variety of trails that cater to all skill levels. The extensive state and federal lands provide a sense of wilderness and tranquility that hikers particularly appreciate.

Generally, day hiking in the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area and most state lands in Pike County does not require specific permits. However, certain activities like backcountry camping may require permits. It's always a good idea to check the official websites for the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area or specific state parks for the most current regulations before your visit. For more information on the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, you can visit delawaretownshippa.gov.