Hiking Trails in the Pocono Mountains

Trails for Beginners and Expert Hikers

Beginner Trails for Families

The Poconos is a haven for beginner hikers looking to enjoy the beauty of nature without overly strenuous effort. With short, well-maintained, and family-friendly trails, there’s no shortage of serene paths to explore. Trails like Shohola Falls Trail and Wallenpaupack Lake Trail offer picturesque views of waterfalls and lakes, making them perfect for a leisurely stroll or a quiet moment of reflection. These routes are also ideal for families with young children or anyone new to hiking, offering easy terrain and plenty of scenic rewards. Whether you’re admiring the tranquil shoreline or pausing at a scenic overlook, these beginner trails promise an accessible way to soak in the Poconos’ natural charm.

Challenging Trails for Expert Hikers

For seasoned adventurers, the Poconos delivers an exhilarating array of challenging hikes that test endurance and reward with spectacular vistas. Trails like Pulpit Rock and Pinnacle Loop and the legendary Black Forest Trail feature steep climbs, rugged terrain, and breathtaking views of the surrounding wilderness. These trails often include rocky paths, dramatic elevation changes, and natural landmarks like cliffs and cascading waterfalls. Perfect for hikers looking to push their limits, these routes provide a sense of accomplishment with every step. The Poconos’ advanced trails are calling your name if you’re ready for a heart-pounding journey through untamed landscapes.

Easy trails in the Poconos

Shohola Falls Trail

0.8 km / 0.5 miles • Est. 30m

Key features and attractions:

Stunning Shohola Falls and peaceful wooded areas.
Excellent for birdwatching and nature photography.
Nearby picnic areas for a relaxing outing.
Perfect for short, tranquil hikes in nature.

Ideal for families, beginners, and nature lovers.

Wallenpaupack Lake Trail

3.2 km / 2 miles • Est. 1h

Key features and attractions:

Follows the shoreline of Lake Wallenpaupack with beautiful lake views.
Features benches and informational signs about local flora and fauna.
Flat, wide paths suitable for strollers and pets on leashes.
Gorgeous sunsets over the water make this a prime evening hike.

Great for casual hikers, families with kids, and pet owners.

Cliff Trail and Milford Knob

4.8 km / 3 miles • Est. 2h

Key features and attractions:

Sweeping views of Milford and the Delaware River from the Knob.
Forested trails with unique rock formations along the way.
Less crowded than many other Pocono trails, offering a peaceful retreat.
Great for photography, especially during fall foliage.

Perfect for moderate hikers looking for solitude and beautiful scenery.

Bushkill Falls

4.8 km / 3 miles • Est. 2h

Key features and attractions:

This three-mile gravel path hugs Lake Wallenpaupack, offering tranquil views of the water and lush surroundings.
Connect to the Wallenpaupack Creek Trail for an additional 1.2 miles of easy walking through nature-rich areas.
A perfect way to immerse yourself in the peaceful ambiance of the Poconos’ largest and most scenic lake.

Great for casual hikers and those want want to see wildlife.

McDade Recreational Trail

53 km / 33 miles (multiple segments) • Est. 1h to 5hrs based upon segment

Key features and attractions:

Runs through the Delaware Water Gap offering forest, river, and mountain views.
Multiple trailheads allow hikers to choose their distance and difficulty.
Popular for biking and cross-country skiing in winter.
Quiet, uncrowded paths perfect for enjoying nature.

Suitable for hikers of all levels, with sections suitable for short walks or longer treks

Moderate trails in The Poconos

Cliff Trail and Milford Knob

4.8 km / 3 miles • Est. 2h

Key features and attractions:

Sweeping views of Milford and the Delaware River from the Knob.
Forested trails with unique rock formations along the way.
Less crowded than many other Pocono trails, offering a peaceful retreat.
Great for photography, especially during fall foliage.

Perfect for moderate hikers looking for solitude and beautiful scenery.

Mount Minsi via Appalachian Trail

8 km / 5 miles • Est. 3h

Key features and attractions:

Stunning overlooks of the Delaware Water Gap.
Rocky sections and moderate elevation gain provide a satisfying challenge.
Seasonal wildflowers and scenic forests along the trail.
Great for wildlife spotting, especially during early morning hikes.

Best for intermediate hikers seeking panoramic views and Appalachian Trail experience.

Pulpit Rock and Pinnacle Loop Trail

14.8 km / 9.2 miles • Est. 5-6h

Key features and attractions:

Widely regarded as one of Pennsylvania’s best hikes, with incredible summit views.
Rocky paths and steep climbs test endurance and skill.
Stunning vistas from both Pulpit Rock and Pinnacle.
A must for those seeking a challenging full-day hike.

Ideal for experienced hikers craving elevation gain and breathtaking panoramas.

Long-distance trails in the Pocono Mountains

Black Forest Trail

68.6 km / 42.6 miles (multi-day) • Est. 3-4 days

Key features and attractions:

One of the most challenging long-distance hikes in Pennsylvania.
Features rugged climbs, dramatic vistas, and remote wilderness.
Popular for its namesake deep forests and creekside campsites.
Seasonal wildflowers and fall colors enhance the scenery.

Made for advanced hikers seeking multi-day backpacking adventures in secluded terrain.

Standing Stone Trail

136 km / 85 miles (multi-day) • Est. 4-6 days

Key features and attractions:

A challenging long-distance trail that links with the Mid State Trail.
Known for its rocky ridges, boulder fields, and dramatic overlooks.
Remote sections offer solitude and opportunities for wildlife spotting.
Includes landmarks like the Thousand Steps, a historic stone staircase.

Appropriate for expert hikers looking for a rigorous trek with rewarding views and unique geological features.

Tips for hiking in the Poconos

Gear and Preparation

Wear sturdy hiking boots to handle rocky terrain and uneven trails.
Pack essentials like water, snacks, a map, and a first-aid kit for safety.

Seasonal Considerations

Dress in layers to adapt to the Poconos’ changing weather conditions.
Check trail conditions in advance, especially in spring and winter when mud or snow may be present.