The best walks and hikes in Luzerne County

Luzerne County is famous for its waterfalls, especially within its state parks. Ricketts Glen State Park is a top destination, known for its trail system that passes more than 20 waterfalls. For a different experience, the Buttermilk Falls via Red & Green Trail loop in Bear Creek Preserve offers a rewarding hike to a beautiful cascade. Another popular option is the long but relatively flat hike to see Buttermilk & Luke's Falls via the Lehigh Gorge Trail.

Yes, there are many options suitable for families and casual walkers. The Farmstead & Lupine Loop Trail in Nescopeck State Park is a short, gentle walk through forests and wetlands. For a paved, accessible path with river views, the River Common loop in Wilkes-Barre is an excellent choice.

Many trails in Luzerne County are dog-friendly, but policies vary by park. State parks like Ricketts Glen and Lehigh Gorge generally permit dogs on most trails, provided they are on a leash. However, some specific, fragile areas may have restrictions. Always check the park's official regulations before you go. The Seven Tubs Recreation Area is another popular spot where leashed dogs are welcome.

For impressive vistas, the Campbell's Ledge & Reservoir loop provides excellent views over the Susquehanna River Valley after a steady climb. The trail is a local favorite for its rewarding scenery. Many trails in the Pinchot State Forest also lead to high points with expansive overlooks.

Yes, loop trails are very common in the region's parks. A great example is the Moon Lake loop, which offers a pleasant walk around the water in the Moon Lake State Forest Recreation Area. Most state parks, including Frances Slocum and Nescopeck, feature well-marked loop trails of varying lengths.

Winter transforms Luzerne County's trails into a peaceful wonderland. Flatter routes like the D&L Trail in Lehigh Gorge State Park and the Susquehanna Warrior Trail become ideal for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Higher elevation trails can be icy and require proper gear like microspikes for traction. Always check conditions before heading out as trails are not always cleared of snow.

The area is highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.8 stars. Hikers frequently praise the incredible diversity, from the dramatic waterfalls in Ricketts Glen State Park to the serene riverside paths along the Lehigh River. The well-maintained trail networks in the various state parks are also a commonly highlighted feature.

The most significant long-distance path is the Delaware and Lehigh (D&L) Trail, which runs through the region. You can hike a substantial section of it within Lehigh Gorge State Park. For a challenging day hike, consider the Greater Hazleton Rails to Trails, which offers a 7.7-mile (12.4 km) route through Butler Preserve.

Hiking is possible year-round, but autumn is particularly spectacular due to the vibrant fall foliage in the Pocono foothills. Spring is wonderful for seeing the waterfalls at their most powerful, while summer is great for enjoying the lush forests. Winter offers a quieter experience, with opportunities for snowshoeing on many trails.

Luzerne County offers a full spectrum of difficulty levels. There are over 20 easy routes, many of which are flat rail-trails or gentle park paths. The majority of trails are rated as moderate, involving some elevation gain and uneven terrain. A few, like the famous Falls Trail in Ricketts Glen State Park, are considered difficult due to steep, rocky, and often slippery sections.

For any hike, bring water, snacks, and a map or charged phone with the route downloaded. Sturdy hiking shoes are essential, especially for rocky or root-filled trails.

If you're tackling a waterfall trail like those in Ricketts Glen, waterproof footwear is highly recommended as the paths can be very wet and slippery. In summer, insect repellent is a good idea, and in cooler months, dressing in layers is key to staying comfortable.