The best walks and hikes in Promised Land State Park
5.0
(1)
32
hikers
7
hikes
Hiking in Promised Land State Park is set on the Pocono Plateau at an elevation of around 1,800 feet (550 m). The park's landscape is characterized by two prominent lakes, dense forests of beech, oak, maple, and hemlock, and rocky terrain shaped by past glacial activity. The extensive trail network winds through these woodlands and along the lakeshores, offering varied routes.
Best hiking trails in Promised Land State Park
- The most popular hiking route is Egypt Meadow Lake loop from Bear Trap Mountain, a 3.7 miles (6.0 km) trail that takes 1 hour 34 minutes to complete. This is an easy route with minimal elevation change that circles the lake.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Big Lake Trail, an easy 2.0 miles (3.3 km) path. This trail offers views of the lake and surrounding forest.
- Local hikers also love the Mountain Lake loop from Skytop, a 2.2 miles (3.6 km) trail leading around the lake, often completed in about 56 minutes.
- Hiking in Promised Land State Park is defined by lakeside paths, dense woodlands, and gentle gradients. The network of Promised Land State Park hiking trails provides accessible options for different ability levels, with most routes being relatively flat.
- The routes in Promised Land State Park are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 5.0 stars from over 1 review. More than 30 hikers have used komoot to explore Promised Land State Park's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 12, 2026
1.51km
00:23
0m
0m
The Conservation Island Nature Trail offers an easy hike, perfect for a quick escape into nature. This accessible loop covers 0.9 miles (1.5 km) with a minimal elevation gain of just 14 feet (4 metres), making it suitable for nearly everyone. You can expect to complete the route in about 23 minutes, enjoying continuous views of the lake as you circle Conservation Island among hemlock and pine trees. Keep an eye out for signs of beavers, adding a touch of wildlife discovery to your walk.
To plan your visit, know that the trail is best enjoyed from March through November, offering pleasant conditions for your hike. It is located within Promised Land State Park, and dogs are welcome to join you, provided they are kept on a leash. Benches are conveniently placed along the route, inviting you to pause and take in the serene lakeside vistas, especially during the vibrant autumn months.
This route provides a gentle introduction to the natural beauty of the park, circling Conservation Island itself. You can enhance your experience by picking up a self-guided booklet from the park office, which offers more insights into the island's unique natural features. This trail stands out as a peaceful and informative option for those looking to connect with the local environment.
841m
00:13
0m
0m
Embark on the 1800 Trail for a peaceful hike through the natural environment of Promised Land State Park. This easy route guides you along a singletrack path, offering a quiet escape into the surrounding woods. Covering just 0.5 miles (0.8 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 10 feet (3 metres), you can complete this refreshing walk in about 12 minutes.
To plan your visit, note that the 1800 Trail is located within Promised Land State Park. General parking is typically available within state parks, but it is always a good idea to check the park's official website for specific trailhead access. You should also look for any potential fees or permits required for parking before you arrive.
This short trail provides an excellent opportunity to immerse yourself in the park's natural setting. As you walk, keep an eye out for local wildlife that inhabits the area. It's a perfect choice if you are looking for a brief, accessible outdoor experience within the park.
Sign up for free
2
hikers
5.97km
01:34
50m
50m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
hikers
3.30km
00:56
110m
30m
Hike the easy 2.0-mile Big Lake Trail in Lacawac Sanctuary, gaining 349 feet in under an hour, perfect for beginners and families.
5.0
(1)
11
hikers
3.59km
00:56
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Promised Land State Park
Tips from the Community
This is a relatively smaller lake, but most of the time, you'll find it full of life with people swimming, kayaking, and a wide variety of wildlife around the area. There's a nice trail that encircles the lake, offering views of the entire lake.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
Are dogs allowed on the hiking trails in Promised Land State Park?
Yes, dogs are welcome on the trails in Promised Land State Park, but they must be kept on a leash at all times. The park offers many suitable trails for hiking with your canine companion, such as the relatively flat lakeside paths.
What are some good, easy hikes for families?
The park is very family-friendly, with most trails being rated as easy. For a pleasant walk with children, consider the Egypt Meadow Lake loop from Egypt Meadow Lake Dam. It's a short, 1.5-mile (2.5 km) loop with very little elevation change, making it perfect for little legs.
Are there any trails with waterfalls?
Yes, the park is known for its waterfalls. The most notable is the Little Falls Trail, a popular one-mile loop that follows a creek past several small, scenic cascades. It's a great choice if you're looking for picturesque water features on your hike.
What is the general difficulty of the trails in the park?
The hiking trails in Promised Land State Park are generally considered easy. The terrain is located on the Pocono Plateau and features mostly gentle gradients and lakeside paths. All of the featured routes in this guide are rated easy, making the park accessible for hikers of all abilities.
How do other hikers rate the trails in Promised Land State Park?
The trails are very well-regarded by the komoot community, which has given the area an average rating of 5.0 stars. Hikers often praise the beautiful lake views and the serene forest environment.
Are there circular or loop trails available?
Absolutely. Many of the most popular routes are loops, allowing you to enjoy a varied hike without retracing your steps. A great example is the Mountain Lake loop from Coveville, which provides a pleasant 2.2-mile (3.6 km) circuit around the lake.
What is the best season to hike in Promised Land State Park?
Hiking is excellent year-round, but autumn is particularly spectacular when the beech, oak, and maple forests display vibrant fall colors. Spring is also beautiful, with blooming mountain laurel and rhododendron. Summer is great for combining a hike with a swim, and winter offers opportunities for snowshoeing on the trails.
How can I get to the park and where can I park?
Promised Land State Park is located at 100 Lower Lake Rd, Greentown, PA. The best way to get there is by car. The park is a popular destination and provides multiple parking areas near trailheads and the main visitor center, but they can fill up on weekends, so arriving early is recommended.
Are there any trails that connect to the surrounding Delaware State Forest?
Yes, several trails extend from the park into the vast Delaware State Forest, offering opportunities for longer and more remote hikes. The Bruce Lake Trail, for instance, leads out to a natural glacial lake within the state forest, providing a more rugged backcountry experience.
Can I go backpacking or camping in the park?
While there are no designated backpacking-specific trails with backcountry campsites, the park offers extensive camping facilities. You can set up a base at one of the six campgrounds and explore different trails each day. For official details on camping options and reservations, it's best to check the official park website.
What kind of elevation gain should I expect on the hikes?
Most hikes in the park involve minimal elevation gain, as the terrain is relatively flat. For example, the Mount Wismer loop is one of the routes with more climbing, and it only has about 330 feet (100 m) of ascent. The majority of trails are much flatter, especially those around the lakes.
How extensive is the trail network in the park?
Promised Land State Park features an impressive network of approximately 50 miles (80 km) of hiking trails. This offers a wide variety of options, from short lakeside strolls to longer treks through the forest.
Most popular routes in Promised Land State Park
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
