The best walks and hikes around Penn Estates

The Levee Loop Trail offers a delightful and accessible hiking experience along the Brodhead Creek, perfect for a relaxed outing. You'll enjoy a mix of surfaces, from grass and gravel to pavement, as the path meanders through wooded areas and several community parks. Keep an eye out for the unique rock formation near the Mill Creek Bridge, creating a charming "falling water effect" that adds to the scenic beauty of this easy 4.8-mile (7.8 km) route, which involves only 87 feet (26 metres) of elevation gain and takes just under 2 hours.

This popular trail is incredibly convenient, linking Stroudsburg and East Stroudsburg with numerous access points through parks like Dansbury Park and Creekview Park. It's a multi-use pathway, so you'll share it with runners and cyclists, and it's a fantastic option for families and those hiking with leashed dogs. Parking is readily available at the various park access points, making trailhead access simple for your Levee Loop Trail adventure.

Beyond its recreational appeal, the Levee Loop Trail holds historical significance, originally built as a flood levee after a devastating flood in 1955. Today, it serves as a vital community hub, connecting 14 public parks and offering access to playgrounds, athletic fields, and even downtown historic districts. It also links to the broader Brodhead Greenway, providing options for longer excursions and making it one of the more popular trails and routes in the region.

Hike the easy 1.0 mile ForEvergreen Preserve Loop, a family-friendly and dog-friendly trail with wildlife sightings and scenic views.

The Rail Gap Pocono Creek Nature Preserve Trail offers a serene woodland experience, winding through diverse habitats alongside the pristine Class-A Wild Trout Waters of Pocono Creek. You'll find yourself under a canopy of towering eastern hemlocks, with options for a wide, flat path or a more adventurous rocky creekside route. This easy 0.6-mile (0.9 km) hike with only 24 feet (7 metres) of elevation gain is a perfect, quick nature fix.

Planning your visit is straightforward, with established trails near the main parking area. Remember, this is a primitive natural area, so pack out what you pack in, as there are no facilities like restrooms or trash cans. The trail is dog-friendly, and with an estimated duration of just 14 minutes, it's an ideal spot for a short, refreshing walk any time of day.

Beyond the natural beauty, the preserve holds intriguing historical and geological secrets. You can trace the path of the old Wilkes-Barre & Eastern Railroad or even discover small marine fossils dating back 400 million years. A unique highlight is an abandoned 1930s Ford Model A Coupe slowly being reclaimed by nature on the Western Side Trail, adding a touch of rustic charm to this recently opened preserve.

The Pocono Heritage Trail loop offers a serene escape through dense woodlands, winding past a tranquil mountain-top lake and a flowing stream. You'll find natural dirt paths, but be prepared for rocky patches and uneven ground, adding to the trail's engaging character. From the Godfrey Ridge overlook, you can take in scenic views of Cherry Valley and Stroudsburg, making this a rewarding hike for its natural features.

This easy 2.3-mile (3.7 km) hiking route, with 260 feet (79 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes about 1 hour and 3 minutes to complete. While the overall Pocono Heritage Trail loop hike difficulty is easy, some sections involve invigorating climbs and steep areas. If you plan to visit during colder months, be aware of Pocono Heritage Trail winter hiking conditions; snow and ice can make traction devices essential.

Beyond its natural beauty, the trail is notable for its historical elements, including the intriguing ruins and wide stone steps of the historic Churleigh Inn. This route is part of the Glen Run Nature Preserve and the broader Pocono Heritage Land Trust Trail network, which actively protects the region's natural heritage. It even briefly intersects with the 9-11 Trail, blending nature with a sense of history.