Attractions and Places To See around Clarks Summit - Top 5

Nature enthusiasts will find several appealing spots. Gateway Preserve is dedicated to conservation, offering space for recreation and environmental education. Lackawanna State Park, just five miles north, features a 198-acre lake for fishing, swimming, and boating, along with 18 miles of multi-use trails. You can also explore Archbald Pothole State Park, home to a massive geologic formation, or enjoy the scenic Lackawanna River Heritage Trail for walking, jogging, and cycling.

Yes, the region offers several historical and cultural sites. In nearby Scranton, you can visit the Houdini Museum & Magic Show, dedicated to the legendary magician, or the Steamtown National Historic Site, which explores the history of railroads. Closer to Clarks Summit, the Lackawanna Historical Society Museum preserves local heritage, and The Gathering Place, a community center, hosts art exhibits and live music.

For families, Lahey Family Fun Park offers year-round activities like mini-golf, go-karts, and bumper boats. Many parks, such as Abington Memorial Park and Hillside Park, provide playgrounds and picnic areas. Lackawanna State Park is also great for families, with opportunities for swimming, boating, and easy trails. The Gateway Preserve is also considered family-friendly, offering space for recreation.

The area boasts numerous trails. Lackawanna State Park offers 18 miles of multi-use trails suitable for hiking and walking. The Lackawanna River Heritage Trail provides scenic paths along the river for walkers, joggers, and cyclists. For a unique experience, Archbald Pothole State Park has a hiking trail that follows a coal mine path. You can also find walking trails at Abington Memorial Park and Hillside Park. For more options, check out the Running Trails around Clarks Summit guide.

Absolutely. The Lackawanna River Heritage Trail is excellent for cycling, offering picturesque views. For a quiet ride through the countryside, consider West Abington Road, a smooth cycle way passing a lake and agricultural buildings. You can find various cycling options, including easy to moderate routes, in the Cycling around Clarks Summit and Road Cycling Routes around Clarks Summit guides.

Lackawanna Lake at Lackawanna State Park is a popular spot for fishing, swimming, and boating. Lake Winola, about 10 miles away, is open for boating, fishing, kayaking, rowing, and canoeing. While Lake Scranton has a walking trail, pets and bikes are not permitted, and it primarily serves as a water reservoir.

Hillside Park features a dedicated dog park, making it a great option for pet owners. Many of the multi-use trails in Lackawanna State Park and the Lackawanna River Heritage Trail are generally dog-friendly, but it's always a good idea to check specific park regulations regarding leashes and waste disposal.

For winter sports enthusiasts, Elk Mountain Ski Resort offers over 180 acres of skiable terrain with 27 trails for all skill levels, along with ski and snowboarding lessons. Lackawanna State Park also provides opportunities for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing on its trails when conditions allow.

Scranton is widely recognized as the setting for the popular TV show "The Office." It is also notable as the birthplace of President Joe Biden. Beyond its pop culture and political connections, Scranton offers historical sites like the Steamtown National Historic Site and the Houdini Museum.

The Clarks Summit State Hospital Arboretum offers a peaceful oasis with a variety of tree species, plant life, and landscaped grounds, perfect for leisurely walks and quiet reflection. Abington Memorial Park also provides a serene environment with walking trails and picnic areas.

Yes, Clarks Summit is home to a unique Vintage 1969 Gulf Gas Station. It has been meticulously restored to its 1969 appearance, offering a nostalgic photo opportunity for visitors, though it no longer sells gas.

The Archbald Pothole, located in Archbald Pothole State Park, is a massive geologic formation. It is 38 feet deep and measures 42 by 24 feet in diameter, making it a significant natural wonder and a testament to glacial erosion. The park also features a hiking trail.