The best running trails around Mount Cobb

There are several dedicated running routes around Mount Cobb, with komoot featuring 7 distinct paths. These range from moderate to difficult, offering diverse experiences for runners.

While most routes in the immediate Mount Cobb guide are rated moderate to difficult, the Scranton Road – Lake Scranton loop from Lake Scranton Parking is a popular 3.8-mile (6.1 km) path known for its continuous views of the reservoir and surrounding woodlands, making it an excellent choice for an easy and scenic jog. Lackawanna State Park also offers trails with varying difficulties, including some easier, flatter paths.

Jogging around Mount Cobb offers diverse landscapes, including rolling hills, dense woodlands, and scenic vistas across the Lackawanna Valley and the broader Pocono Mountains. You'll encounter a mix of mountains, wetlands, and forests, with features like the 198-acre Lackawanna Lake and woodland streams in Lackawanna State Park, and continuous reservoir views along the Lake Scranton path.

Yes, many of the running paths around Mount Cobb are circular. For instance, the Scranton Road – Lake Scranton loop and the challenging Top of the World loop are both circular, allowing you to start and finish at the same point.

For experienced runners seeking a challenge, the Top of the World loop from VCA Dunmore Animal Hospital is a difficult 6.3-mile (10.1 km) path with significant elevation changes, offering expansive views across the Lackawanna Valley and the Pocono Mountains. Another option is the Running loop from The Hideout, which is a moderate 4.8-mile (7.8 km) route with notable elevation gain.

Yes, Lackawanna State Park, a notable nearby landmark, offers a series of looping trails suitable for foot traffic, including the Lakeshore Trail, which is considered family-friendly and provides excellent views of Lackawanna Lake. These trails often have varying difficulties, with some being flatter and easier for all ages.

Along the running routes, you can enjoy continuous views of Lake Scranton reservoir, expansive vistas across the Lackawanna Valley and Pocono Mountains from trails like the Top of the World loop, and river views along the View of the Lackawanna River loop. Lackawanna State Park also features the 198-acre Lackawanna Lake and diverse flora, including wetland wildflowers and hemlock forests.

Yes, parking is generally available. For example, the popular Scranton Road – Lake Scranton loop starts from Lake Scranton Parking. Lackawanna State Park also provides parking facilities for trail access.

While specific crowd levels can vary, trails within Lackawanna State Park, especially those exploring forests and woodland streams away from the main day-use areas, can offer a more tranquil experience. The region's rural charm and extensive network of paths often allow for peaceful runs, particularly during off-peak hours.

The varied terrain and woodlands of Mount Cobb make it enjoyable throughout much of the year. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, with spring showcasing wetland wildflowers and fall providing vibrant foliage. Summer can be warm but is still suitable, especially in shaded wooded areas. Winter running is possible but may require appropriate gear for snow and ice.

Absolutely. The View of the Lackawanna River loop from Blakely is a 7.1-mile (11.4 km) route specifically designed to lead through diverse landscapes and offer scenic views of the Lackawanna River, making it a great option for those interested in riverside running.

Yes, the Running loop from Dick & Nancy Eales Preserve at Moosic Mountain is a moderate 4.2-mile (6.8 km) route that allows you to explore the natural beauty of the Moosic Mountain area, offering a different perspective of the region's diverse terrain.