Attractions and Places To See around Penn Lake Park - Top 6
Best attractions and places to see around Penn Lake Park center on its natural beauty and recreational opportunities. The region is characterized by Penn Lake, a 51-acre body of water known for swimming, fishing, and various water and land sports, notably without motorized boats. This area, established as a borough in 1976, has a history tied to ice harvesting from the late 1800s. Beyond the lake, the surrounding area offers extensive natural preserves and trail systems for outdoor exploration.
Best attractions and places to see around Penn Lake Park
- The most popular attractions is Lehigh Gorge Trail, a trail that is a 26-mile section of the 165-mile D&L Trail. This gravel trail follows the Lehigh River, offering views of waterfalls and potential wildlife sightings.
- Another must-see spot is Natural Lands' Bear Creek Preserve, a forest spanning nearly 4,000 acres of woodlands and stream valleys. It is home to a wide array of wildlife, including black bear, grey foxes, and various bird species.
- Visitors also love D&L Trail, a 165-mile trail that forms the backbone of Pennsylvania's Delaware & Lehigh National Heritage Corridor. The trail crosses five counties, showcasing picturesque and historic regions in the state.
- Penn Lake Park is known for its trails, natural preserves, and waterfalls. Visitors can explore diverse landscapes, from tranquil lakes to extensive trail networks and wildlife habitats.
- The attractions around Penn Lake Park are appreciated by the komoot community, with 11 upvotes and 4 photos shared.
Last updated: June 28, 2026
Lehigh Gorge Trail
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White Haven
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Buttermilk Falls
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D&L Trail
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Natural Lands' Bear Creek Preserve
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Popular around Penn Lake Park
Tips from the Community
This charming town is the northernmost starting point for Lehigh Gorge State Park. It is a popular destination due to its access to hiking and biking trails converted from former railway lines along the beautiful Lehigh River. There are several great local restaurants close to the trails, making it the perfect place to start and finish a hike through the breathtaking Lehigh Gorge.
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Buttermilk Falls is stunning, cascading 35 feet down the mountain, and is a fantastic reward after a long hike. There is also a small dirt road pull-off area along White Haven Road if you want to take a shorter hike to visit these beautiful falls. It is best to visit in the spring after a rain, although it's gorgeous any time of year and a great spot to capture some spectacular photos.
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Natural Lands' Bear Creek Preserve is nearly 4,000 acres of woodlands and stream valleys. It's home to a wide array of wildlife including black bear, gray foxes, and the endangered Northern flying squirrel. A dizzying array of birds makes the Preserve home, or a welcome stop along their migratory routes.
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White Haven is named after Josiah White, who was instrumental in the transport of all the coal and lumber that was produced here in the early to mid 1800s. These days it's a quiet town by the Lehigh River and is a popular place to begin or end a journey through the Lehigh Gorge. Though the trail through the gorge isn't paved it's generally in decent shape and can be ridden on most bikes.
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Natural Lands' Bear Creek Preserve is nearly 4,000 acres of woodlands and stream valleys. It's home to a wide array of wildlife including black bear, grey foxes, and the endangered Northern flying Squirrel. A dizzying array of birds make the Preserve home, or a welcome stop along their migratory routes.
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The Lehigh Gorge Trail is a 26-mile section of the 165-mile D&L Trail. The Lehigh Trail is a gravel trail that follows the Lehigh River with views of waterfalls and, potentially, wildlife.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural features can I explore around Penn Lake Park?
The region offers a variety of natural attractions. You can enjoy the tranquil waters of Penn Lake itself, which is ideal for swimming and fishing. Nearby, explore the nearly 4,000-acre Natural Lands' Bear Creek Preserve with its woodlands and stream valleys. Don't miss Buttermilk Falls, a stunning 35-foot cascading waterfall, or the scenic Lehigh Gorge Trail, which follows the Lehigh River. Other notable spots include Hickory Run State Park with its Boulder Field, Lake Harmony, and the Seven Tubs Natural Area.
Are there opportunities for hiking near Penn Lake Park?
Yes, there are numerous hiking opportunities. The Natural Lands' Bear Creek Preserve offers extensive trails, including the Bear Creek Preserve Red Loop Trail and the Red, Green, and Gray Loop Trail. The Lehigh Gorge Trail, part of the larger D&L Trail, also provides scenic paths. For more detailed routes, you can explore the hiking guide for Penn Lake Park, which includes routes like the Nescopeck Ponds Loop Trail.
Can I go cycling around Penn Lake Park?
Absolutely. The Lehigh Gorge Trail and the broader D&L Trail are excellent for cycling, offering picturesque views along the Lehigh River. The town of White Haven is a popular starting point for journeys through the Lehigh Gorge. You can find various cycling routes, including road cycling and touring bicycle options, in the road cycling guide and cycling guide for Penn Lake Park.
Where can I see waterfalls in the Penn Lake Park area?
The most prominent waterfall is Buttermilk Falls, a 35-foot cascade that is particularly beautiful after rain. Additionally, the Lehigh Gorge Trail offers views of several waterfalls as it follows the Lehigh River.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see?
The Natural Lands' Bear Creek Preserve is a prime spot for wildlife viewing. It's home to black bears, grey foxes, and the endangered Northern flying squirrel. The preserve also hosts a diverse array of bird species, making it a significant location for birdwatching.
What water activities are available at Penn Lake?
Penn Lake is a 51-acre body of water perfect for swimming, fishing, and various non-motorized water sports. The lake features a small sand beach and is known for its clean, refreshing water. The absence of motorized boats ensures a calm and peaceful environment.
Does Penn Lake Park have any historical significance?
Yes, Penn Lake has a unique history. It was originally constructed in the late 1800s as an ice lake by the Albert Lewis owned "Bear Creek Ice Company," which dammed Wrights Creek to create it. Ice was once harvested here and shipped via a rail line. The borough of Penn Lake Park was established in 1976 partly to secure a state grant for dam repairs, highlighting its practical local history.
Are there family-friendly attractions or activities near Penn Lake Park?
Many attractions are suitable for families. Penn Lake itself offers swimming and picnicking. The Natural Lands' Bear Creek Preserve has trails that are family-friendly, and the town of White Haven is also noted as family-friendly, providing access to trails and local amenities.
Are dog-friendly trails available around Penn Lake Park?
Yes, several areas welcome dogs. The Natural Lands' Bear Creek Preserve is dog-friendly, offering various trails for you and your canine companion. The town of White Haven, a popular access point for the Lehigh Gorge trails, is also considered dog-friendly.
What amenities are available directly at Penn Lake?
Penn Lake offers designated picnic areas, a small sand beach, and facilities for swimming and fishing. These amenities make it ideal for family gatherings or a relaxing day outdoors.
What is the best time of year to visit Penn Lake Park for outdoor activities?
The spring and fall seasons are generally excellent for outdoor activities. Spring offers lush greenery and vibrant waterfalls, especially after rain, while fall brings stunning foliage. Summer is perfect for water activities at Penn Lake. Winter can also be beautiful for those who enjoy snowy landscapes, though some trails might be more challenging.
What makes the D&L Trail significant in this region?
The D&L Trail is a 165-mile trail that forms the backbone of Pennsylvania's Delaware & Lehigh National Heritage Corridor. It crosses five counties, showcasing some of the state's most picturesque and historic regions, including the Lehigh Gorge Trail section near Penn Lake Park.
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