The Poconos Mountains, a breathtaking region nestled in northeastern Pennsylvania, is a true haven for families seeking outdoor adventure. With its lush forests, sparkling lakes, and cascading waterfalls, it’s an ideal destination for creating lasting memories on the trails. If you’re planning a trip with little explorers in tow, finding the right path is key to a successful and enjoyable outing. That’s why we’ve put together a guide to the top-rated Poconos family hikes, perfect for every age and skill level. Get ready to lace up your boots and discover the natural beauty that awaits!
Embarking on Poconos family hikes is more than just a walk in the woods; it’s an opportunity to connect with nature, get some invigorating exercise, and spend quality time together away from screens. From stroller-friendly boardwalks to moderately challenging paths leading to stunning vistas, the Poconos offers a diverse range of trails designed with families in mind. We’ll cover everything from the iconic Bushkill Falls to the serene state park loops, ensuring you have all the information you need to plan your perfect hiking adventure.
Why the Poconos are a Family Hiking Paradise
The Poconos region is uniquely suited for family hiking. Its varied terrain means you can find everything from flat, accessible paths to more rugged, adventurous climbs, all within close proximity. The natural beauty is undeniable, with four distinct seasons each offering a different charm—think vibrant spring blooms, cool summer breezes, spectacular fall foliage, and peaceful winter landscapes. This diversity ensures that no matter when you visit, there are always amazing Poconos family hikes waiting to be explored.
Beyond the trails themselves, the Poconos boasts a welcoming atmosphere for families. Many trailheads are equipped with restrooms, picnic areas, and visitor centers, making the logistics of hiking with children much simpler. Plus, the region is home to numerous family-friendly accommodations and attractions, making it easy to turn a day hike into a multi-day adventure. The abundance of natural beauty combined with family-focused amenities makes the Poconos an unparalleled choice for your next outdoor escape.
Bushkill Falls: The Niagara of Pennsylvania
Often dubbed the “Niagara of Pennsylvania,” Bushkill Falls is arguably one of the most famous and spectacular destinations for Poconos family hikes. This privately owned park features a series of eight beautiful waterfalls accessible via a well-maintained network of trails, bridges, and boardwalks. While there is an admission fee, the sheer beauty and accessibility make it a worthwhile investment for a memorable family day out.
Bushkill Falls offers several color-coded trails of varying lengths and difficulties, allowing families to choose an adventure that suits their pace and comfort level. The shortest and easiest is the Green Trail, a 15-minute loop that takes you to the main falls. For those seeking more, the Yellow Trail offers a 45-minute journey to several other falls, while the Blue Trail extends the experience to an hour and 15 minutes. The most adventurous is the Red Trail, a challenging two-hour hike that covers all eight falls and provides breathtaking views. While some parts have stairs and uneven terrain, much of it is boardwalk, making it manageable for active children. Strollers are not recommended beyond the initial viewing area due to the steps involved.
- Green Trail: Easiest, 15-minute loop to Main Falls.
- Yellow Trail: Moderate, 45-minute loop to several falls.
- Blue Trail: Longer, 1 hour 15 minutes, more falls.
- Red Trail: Most challenging, 2-hour hike to all eight falls.
Tips for Visiting Bushkill Falls
To make the most of your visit to Bushkill Falls, arrive early, especially during peak season, to avoid crowds and secure parking. Wear comfortable walking shoes with good grip, as the wooden walkways can sometimes be slippery, particularly after rain. Pack plenty of water and snacks, as there are limited options once you are on the trails. There are also picnic areas available if you want to bring your own lunch. Remember that this is a privately owned attraction, so pets are not permitted on the trails, and there is an entrance fee per person.
Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area Adventures
The Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area is a vast expanse of natural beauty that offers countless opportunities for Poconos family hikes. This protected area, spanning parts of Pennsylvania and New Jersey, is home to stunning river views, dense forests, and, most notably, magnificent waterfalls. It’s a fantastic place to explore with kids, offering trails ranging from accessible boardwalks to more challenging climbs, all free to enter.
Dingmans Falls: A Boardwalk Wonderland
Dingmans Falls is a true gem within the Delaware Water Gap, offering one of the most accessible and beautiful waterfall experiences for families. The trail here is largely a well-maintained wooden boardwalk that winds through a lush hemlock forest, making it perfect for strollers and young children. The short, easy walk leads to two spectacular waterfalls: Silverthread Falls, which cascades gracefully through a narrow chasm, and the impressive Dingmans Falls, which plunges over 130 feet.
The gentle slope and smooth surface of the boardwalk make this an ideal choice for families with toddlers or those needing wheelchair access. Along the way, interpretive signs provide interesting facts about the local flora and fauna, turning the hike into an educational adventure. There’s a visitor center at the trailhead where you can get more information about the area and its wildlife, adding another layer to your Poconos family hikes experience. It’s a wonderful place to spend an hour or two immersed in nature without overexerting the little ones.
- Easy, stroller-friendly boardwalk.
- Features Silverthread Falls and Dingmans Falls.
- Educational interpretive signs along the way.
- Visitor center at trailhead for more information.
Raymondskill Falls: Poconos’ Tallest Triple-Tiered Waterfall
For families seeking another spectacular waterfall experience that is free and offers slightly more rugged terrain than Dingmans, Raymondskill Falls is an excellent choice. Located within the Delaware Water Gap, Raymondskill Falls boasts the title of Pennsylvania’s tallest continuous waterfall, cascading down three tiers for a combined height of about 150 feet. It’s often compared to Bushkill Falls but offers a more natural, less commercialized feel.
The trails at Raymondskill Falls are well-marked but involve some elevation changes and natural surfaces, so sturdy shoes are recommended. There are two main viewing platforms: one for the upper falls and one for the lower falls. The hike to the upper falls is relatively short and easy, offering fantastic views of the topmost tier. To reach the lower falls, you’ll descend a series of steps and natural paths, which can be a bit more challenging for very young children or those with mobility issues, but the views from the bottom are absolutely worth the effort. This site truly highlights the diverse beauty of Poconos family hikes.
- Free entry, natural setting.
- Pennsylvania’s tallest continuous waterfall (three tiers).
- Upper and lower viewing platforms.
- More natural trails, sturdy shoes recommended.
State Park Gems for Easy Trails
Beyond the famous waterfalls, the Poconos are home to several beautiful state parks that offer a plethora of easier trails, perfect for families with younger children or those looking for a more relaxed hiking experience. These parks often feature serene lakes, diverse wildlife, and well-maintained paths that are ideal for Poconos family hikes where the focus is on gentle exploration and enjoying the tranquility of nature.
Promised Land State Park: Lakefront Loops and Nature Exploration
Promised Land State Park is a fantastic destination for families, offering a wide array of easy to moderate Poconos family hikes that wind through dense forests and along the shores of its two lakes: Promised Land Lake and Lower Lake. The park is known for its serene environment, abundant wildlife, and family-friendly amenities, making it a perfect spot for a full day out or a weekend camping trip.
Many of the trails here are relatively flat and wide, making them suitable for children of all ages. The Conservation Island Trail, for example, is a short, easy loop that’s great for little legs and offers lovely lake views. The Bruce Lake Natural Area offers a longer, flatter walk through a pristine natural area, though it’s a bit of a distance from the main park facilities. The park also features a nature center with educational exhibits, picnic areas, and swimming beaches, ensuring there’s always something to do after your hike. It’s a wonderful place to spot deer, diverse bird species, and other woodland creatures, adding an element of discovery to your Poconos family hikes.
- Easy to moderate trails along two lakes.
- Conservation Island Trail: Short, easy loop with lake views.
- Bruce Lake Natural Area: Longer, flat walk through nature.
- Nature center, picnic areas, and swimming beaches available.
Tobyhanna State Park: Lakeside Tranquility
Just a short drive from Promised Land, Tobyhanna State Park offers another excellent option for accessible Poconos family hikes. The centerpiece of this park is Tobyhanna Lake, and the most popular trail is the Tobyhanna Lake Trail, a relatively flat, five-mile loop that circles the entire lake. This trail is perfect for families looking for a longer walk without significant elevation changes, and it’s also popular for biking.
The Tobyhanna Lake Trail winds through diverse habitats, offering opportunities to spot waterfowl, turtles, and other wildlife. The path is generally wide and well-maintained, making it manageable for most children. In addition to hiking, the park offers boating, fishing, and picnicking facilities, so you can easily extend your stay and enjoy various activities. It’s a peaceful retreat where families can truly unwind and enjoy the simple pleasures of nature. These gentle Poconos family hikes are ideal for introducing kids to longer walks in a scenic environment.
- Tobyhanna Lake Trail: Flat, 5-mile loop around the lake.
- Great for walking and biking.
- Opportunities for wildlife viewing.
- Boating, fishing, and picnicking facilities available.
Lehigh Gorge State Park: Flat Trails for Everyone
For families who prefer a virtually flat, wide path that’s perfect for strollers, wheelchairs, bikes, and young walkers, Lehigh Gorge State Park offers some of the best Poconos family hikes. This park is a “rails-to-trails” conversion, meaning old railroad beds have been transformed into scenic multi-use paths. The main trail, the Lehigh Gorge Trail, runs for miles along the Lehigh River, providing stunning views of the gorge, river rapids, and historic railroad remnants.
The Lehigh Gorge Trail is an exceptional choice for Poconos family hikes because of its consistent, gentle grade. You can access the trail from several points, including White Haven, Rockport, and Jim Thorpe, allowing you to choose the length of your adventure. Whether you want a short stroll of a few miles or a longer bike ride, the smooth, crushed gravel surface makes it easy for everyone to participate. The sound of the rushing river and the towering trees overhead create a wonderfully immersive natural experience without the challenges of steep climbs. It’s an ideal spot for families who want to enjoy nature together at their own comfortable pace.
- Rails-to-trails conversion: flat, wide paths.
- Lehigh Gorge Trail: Multi-use path along Lehigh River.
- Accessible for strollers, wheelchairs, and bikes.
- Multiple access points (White Haven, Rockport, Jim Thorpe).
Preparing for Your Poconos Family Hikes
Before heading out on any of your chosen Poconos family hikes, a little preparation can go a long way in ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone. While the Poconos offers many accessible trails, being prepared for varying weather conditions and potential needs of children is crucial. Thinking ahead will allow you to relax and fully immerse yourselves in the natural beauty of the region.
First and foremost, comfortable footwear is essential. Opt for sturdy sneakers or hiking boots that offer good ankle support and grip. Flip-flops or sandals are generally not suitable for most trails, even the easier ones, due to uneven terrain or potential for slips. Always check the weather forecast before you go and dress in layers, as temperatures can change throughout the day or vary between shaded forest paths and open areas. Bringing rain gear, even if the forecast looks clear, is always a good idea in the mountains.
- Wear sturdy sneakers or hiking boots.
- Dress in layers, check weather forecast.
- Bring rain gear.
What to Pack
When packing your daypack for Poconos family hikes, prioritize hydration and nutrition. Bring plenty of water—more than you think you’ll need—especially on warmer days. Reusable water bottles are great for the environment and easy to refill. Pack a variety of snacks, like granola bars, fruit, nuts, and sandwiches, to keep energy levels up for both kids and adults. A small first-aid kit with bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and any necessary personal medications is also crucial. Sunscreen, insect repellent, a hat, and sunglasses will protect you from the elements.
Don’t forget a fully charged cell phone for emergencies, but be aware that cell service can be spotty in some remote areas. A map of the trail or a GPS app downloaded offline can be incredibly helpful, too. Finally, a small trash bag is essential for practicing Leave No Trace principles—pack out everything you pack in, including food wrappers and fruit peels. Encouraging children to participate in packing their own small backpack can make them feel more involved and responsible for their adventure.
- Plenty of water and snacks.
- First-aid kit with essentials.
- Sunscreen, insect repellent, hat, sunglasses.
- Fully charged phone, offline map.
- Trash bag for Leave No Trace.
Making Memories on the Trails
Poconos family hikes are about more than just reaching a destination; they’re about the journey itself and the memories you create along the way. Encourage your children to engage with their surroundings: point out interesting plants, try to spot wildlife, listen to the sounds of the forest, or even collect a few leaves or smooth stones (if permitted) as souvenirs. Turn the hike into a game by playing “I Spy” or challenging them to identify different tree types. These small interactions can transform a simple walk into an unforgettable adventure.
Remember to go at your child’s pace. If they need to stop for a break, a snack, or just to observe something fascinating, allow them that time. Pushing too hard can turn a fun outing into a dreaded chore. Celebrate their accomplishments, no matter how small, whether it’s navigating a tricky section of the trail or identifying a new bird. The joy of discovery and the feeling of accomplishment will foster a lifelong love for the outdoors. The Poconos offers the perfect backdrop for these formative experiences, making every step of your Poconos family hikes truly special.
Conclusion: Your Poconos Adventure Awaits
The Poconos Mountains truly shine as an ultimate family-friendly hiking destination, offering an incredible variety of trails to suit every age and ability. From the stunning cascades of Bushkill Falls and Raymondskill Falls to the serene lake loops of Promised Land and Tobyhanna State Parks, and the accessible flat paths of Lehigh Gorge, there’s a perfect adventure waiting for your family. Each of these Poconos family hikes provides a unique opportunity to connect with nature, enjoy fresh air, and create cherished memories together.
By preparing adequately and embracing the spirit of exploration, your family can fully immerse yourselves in the natural beauty of this magnificent region. So pack your bags, lace up your boots, and get ready to discover the magic of Poconos family hikes. Whether you’re seeking a gentle stroll through a boardwalk wonderland or a more invigorating trek to a panoramic overlook, the Poconos promises an unforgettable outdoor experience that your family will talk about for years to come. Happy hiking!
