Best Hiking, Poconos, USA

Table of Contents

• Top Hiking Trails & Waterfalls

  • 1. Hawk Falls Trail

  • 2. Shades of Death Trail

  • 3. Orchard Loop via Hawk Falls Trail

  • 4. Highland Trail Loop

  • 5. Boulder Field in Hickory Run State Park

  • 6. Choke Creek Falls

  • 7. Tank Hollow Vista

  • 8. Pinchot Trail

  • 9. Christman and Falls Trail Loop

  • 10. Glen Onoko Falls

  • 11. Lehigh Gorge Trail Lock #2

  • 12. Switchback Trail

• Tips & Tricks

• Wrapping Up

Top Hiking Trails & Waterfalls Near Aery Lakehaus

1. Hawk Falls Trail (Austin T. Blakeslee Natural Area)

Located within the Austin T. Blakeslee Natural Area, Hawk Falls Trail is a local favorite just a 10-minute drive from Aery Lakehaus. This short trail leads to a stunning 25-foot waterfall and connects to longer routes like the Orchard Loop and nearby forest paths.

⭐ Ratings: 4.6/5
📍 Kidder Township, PA
⏰ 0.7 miles one way
⚖️ Easy to moderate

This area also connects to quieter paths similar to the Kidder Hike & Bike Trail, making it ideal for families and casual hikers.

2. Shades of Death Trail

Shades of Death Trail winds alongside Sand Spring Run and feels wonderfully remote. Its rocky steps, wooden bridges, and flowing creek make it one of the most scenic moderate hikes near Lake Harmony.

⭐ Ratings: 4.8/5 (313 reviews)
💵 Price Level: Free
📍 Location: PA-534, Albrightsville, PA 18229
⏰ Trail Length: 2.5-mile loop
⚖️ Difficulty: Moderate

Learn more about Shades of Death Trail

3. Orchard Loop via Hawk Falls Trail

This loop blends forest paths, open land, and waterfall access. It’s a great complement to Hawk Falls and ideal if you want more distance without committing to a full mountain climb.

⭐ Ratings: 4.6/5 (353 reviews)
📍 Location: Kidder Township, PA 18210
⏰ Trail Length: 2.2 miles
⚖️ Difficulty: Moderate

Learn more about Orchard Loop via Hawk Falls Trail

4. Highland Trail Loop

This 5-mile loop offers peaceful pine forest scenery and occasional lake views. It’s close to Aery Lakehaus and perfect for morning hikes before relaxing back at the cabin.

⭐ Ratings: 4.7/5 (879 reviews)
📍 Location: 20 PA-115, Blakeslee, PA 18610
⏰ Trail Length: 5-mile loop
⚖️ Difficulty: Moderate

Learn more about Highland Trail Loop

5. Boulder Field in Hickory Run State Park

The Boulder Field Trail leads to one of Pennsylvania’s most famous natural landmarks. Located in Hickory Run State Park, the Boulder Field feels prehistoric—massive rocks spread across acres.

This park also connects to longer trail systems similar to those in Big Pocono State Park.

⭐ Ratings: 4.8/5 (1328 reviews)
💵 Price Level: Free
📍 Location: Lake Harmony, PA 18624
⏰ Trail Length: 1.2 miles round trip
⚖️ Difficulty: Easy

Learn more about Boulder Field

6. Choke Creek Falls

A quieter alternative to popular waterfalls, Choke Creek Falls is short, peaceful, and ideal for families.

⭐ Ratings: 4.8/5
📍 Location: Pennsylvania
⏰ Trail Length: 0.7 miles round trip
⚖️ Difficulty: Easy

Learn more about Choke Creek Falls

7. Tank Hollow Vista

Tank Hollow Vista offers breathtaking views of the Lehigh Gorge and the Delaware River watershed. This flat trail is excellent for all fitness levels.

⭐ Ratings: 4.7/5 (43 reviews)
📍 Location: Penn Forest Township, PA 18229
⏰ Trail Length: 0.5 miles one way
⚖️ Difficulty: Easy

Learn more about Tank Hollow Vista

8. Pinchot Trail

The Pinchot Trail spans over 20 miles, but shorter loops are accessible nearby. It’s similar in feel to forest routes in Jacobsburg State Park and Henry’s Woods Loop, offering peaceful woodland immersion.

⭐ Ratings: 4.5/5 (24 reviews)
📍 Location: Korn Krest, PA 18702
⏰ Trail Length: 4 miles loop
⚖️ Difficulty: Moderate

Learn more about Pinchot Trail

9. Christman and Falls Trail Loop

A hidden gem with meadow views and a small waterfall, this loop pairs well with a visit to nearby historic trail systems such as the Nor-Bath Trail or Monocacy Way.

⭐ Ratings: 4.7/5 (12 reviews)
📍 Location: 6495 Pohopoco Dr, Lehighton, PA 18235
⏰ Trail Length: 3 miles
⚖️ Difficulty: Moderate

Learn more about Christman and Falls Trail Loop

10. Glen Onoko Falls

This challenging trail near Jim Thorpe includes steep climbs and rugged terrain. Nearby alternatives include Indian Ladder Falls and routes near Mount Minsi, Bake Oven Knob, and Dunnfield Creek Trail, all part of the broader Appalachian Trail corridor.

⭐ Ratings: 4.7/5 (63 reviews)
📍 Location: Glen Onoko Lp, Jim Thorpe, PA 18229
⏰ Trail Length: 6 miles round trip
⚖️ Difficulty: Hard

Learn more about Glen Onoko Falls

11. Lehigh Gorge Trail Lock #2

This section connects to the historic D & L Rail/Canal Trail, part of the Morris Canal Greenway. Flat and scenic, it’s excellent for walking or biking.

⭐ Ratings: 5/5 (11 reviews)
📞 Phone: +1272-808-6192
📍 Location: White Haven, PA 18661
⏰ Trail Length: 25 miles one way
⚖️ Difficulty: Easy

Learn more about Lehigh Gorge Trail Lock #2

12. Switchback Trail

A historic rail trail near Mauch Chunk Lake Park, perfect for casual hikes. Nearby points of interest include Bethlehem Waterworks, Moravian Tannery, and the Colonial Industrial Quarter for guests interested in combining nature with history.

⭐ Ratings: 4.8/5 (33 reviews)
📍 Location: Switchback Railroad Trail, Jim Thorpe, PA 18229
⏰ Trail Length: 4 miles loop
⚖️ Difficulty: Easy

Learn more about Switchback Trail

Notable Nearby Hiking & Nature Mentions (Great for Day Trips)

• Lehigh Gap Nature Center – wildlife restoration trails

• Sunfish Pond – alpine lake hike via Appalachian Trail

• Red Dot Trail & Tammany Fire Road – Mount Tammany access

• Turquoise Trail – scenic forest route

• Conashaugh Trailhead – Delaware Water Gap access

• Patriots’ Path – historic walking routes

• Skytop Lodge trails – manicured scenic paths

Hiking Tips from Aery Lakehaus

• Start early for quiet trails and wildlife sightings

• Pack water and snacks—prep easily in our gourmet kitchen

• Wear sturdy footwear for rocky routes like Boulder Field or Mount Minsi

• Download trail maps or ask us for local recommendations

• Return to Aery Lakehaus for a sauna, hot tub soak, or fireside evening

• Try kayaking on the lake at sunrise after your hike

Wrapping Up

From gentle waterfall walks to Appalachian Trail adventures, hiking near Lake Harmony offers something for every pace. Staying at Aery Lakehaus places you close to the region’s best trails while giving you a warm, luxurious home to return to.

After your hike, unwind by the Biodesign pool, gather around the fire pit, or enjoy a movie night in the private theater. Nature outside—comfort inside. That’s the Aery Lakehaus experience.

Is 7 Falls a difficult hike?
7 Falls is in a different park but many waterfall paths here are family-friendly. Trails like Hawk Falls and Choke Creek are easy. Glen Onoko is steeper for more fit hikers.

What is the prettiest hike ?
Here in the Poconos, we think Boulder Field and Orchard Loop offer the best views of nature.

Which is an easy hike?
Hawk Falls and Shades of Death are also quick and fun.

Can I bring my dog on the hiking trails near Lake Harmony?
Most trails allow dogs on leash. Please check trail rules before you go. We have a fenced yard at Aery Lakehaus so your pet can play after your walk.

When is the best time to hike?
Late spring to early fall (May through October) offers mild weather and full waterfalls. Fall brings bright leaves. Winter can be icy, so use crampons if you go out.