The best walks and hikes around Jim Thorpe

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 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.

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.

The Lehigh Gorge Trail offers a wonderfully accessible journey through a lush river gorge, following a wide, smooth path of crushed stone. You'll enjoy continuous views of the Lehigh River, dramatic rock cliffs, and dense forests, with highlights like the Abandoned Coal Tunnel and various waterfalls adding to the scenic charm. This moderate 6.2-mile (9.9 km) hike, with only 270 feet (82 metres) of elevation gain, is a fantastic option for a leisurely outing, taking around 2 hours and 35 minutes to complete.

To make the most of your visit, consider arriving early, especially on weekends, as this popular trail can attract many visitors. The trail is well-maintained and generally suitable for all skill levels, including families and those with strollers. While specific parking information isn't detailed, trailheads within Lehigh Gorge State Park are typically well-marked.

This trail is a significant section of the much larger 165-mile Delaware & Lehigh Trail, rich in historical significance as a former railroad corridor. You'll find remnants of the area's industrial past, including historic canal structures and old railway features, alongside the natural beauty. It's an excellent choice for those interested in combining outdoor activity with a glimpse into Pennsylvania's heritage.