The best walks and hikes around Old Forge

The Lackawanna River Heritage Trail offers a delightful blend of natural beauty and historical insight, tracing the gentle path of the Lackawanna River through Northeastern Pennsylvania. You'll experience a mix of paved, crushed stone, and earthen surfaces, passing by tranquil riverbanks, green passages, and remnants of old railroads and coal mining operations. It's a truly engaging experience that showcases both the region's industrial past and its vibrant natural present, especially beautiful during the fall.

This easy 4.0-mile (6.5 km) hike, with a minimal 45 feet (14 metres) of elevation gain, is perfect for a leisurely outing, taking approximately 1 hour and 38 minutes. The trail is highly accessible and multi-use, welcoming walkers, runners, cyclists, and even those with mobility devices. While specific parking details vary along its extensive length, access points are generally convenient, making it easy to hop on and enjoy a section.

What makes the Lackawanna River Heritage Trail truly stand out is its role as a community connector, linking over 30 communities and transforming the region's industrial heritage into a recreational asset. Beyond the scenic views and historic landmarks, you might encounter locally inspired artwork and even unique attractions like the Nay Aug Avenue Natural Play Area, which features a Turtle Hill and Lily Pad Stage. It's a fantastic option for family-friendly hikes and a great way to explore Lackawanna County.

The Campbell's Ledge Lookout Trail offers a surprisingly grand vista for a relatively short hike. You'll ascend through wooded areas, navigating a mix of dirt, gravel, and rocky sections, before reaching the dramatic cliff edge. From Campbell's Ledge, you're treated to expansive 30-mile views across the Susquehanna River and the Wyoming Valley, a truly rewarding sight after the climb.

This easy 1.6-mile (2.5 km) out-and-back route involves 675 feet (206 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 53 minutes. Due to the steep and sometimes uneven terrain, sturdy footwear is a must. The trail is best enjoyed in spring, summer, or fall when the scenery is at its most vibrant, and it's a great option for a quick, impactful outing.

Beyond the stunning overlook, the area is rich with history, including local legends and remnants of old coal mining operations like quarry tailings. The ledge itself was historically significant for Indigenous tribes and early settlers, adding a layer of cultural depth to your visit. It's a notable natural heritage area, recognized for its unique geological features and conservation efforts.

The Rock with a View Trail offers a delightful journey through varied terrain, starting perhaps on a smooth path before transitioning to more rugged sections with natural surfaces and loose gravel. As you ascend, you'll pass through dense forests, eventually emerging onto rocky bluffs or ridges that provide expansive panoramic views. The geological formations themselves, such as weathered sandstone cliffs or large granite features, are often a key part of the scenic beauty, making this a visually rewarding experience.

When planning your visit, look for trailhead access from a parking area, though specific details for the Rock with a View Trail location are general. This easy 0.9-mile (1.5 km) hike, with 319 feet (97 metres) of elevation gain, takes only about 28 minutes, making it an ideal choice for a quick outing. For the best experience, consider hiking during sunrise or sunset, or in the autumn months to enjoy seasonal changes and comfortable temperatures.

What makes this trail notable is its ability to deliver extraordinary views from iconic rock formations without requiring a strenuous effort. It's a popular destination for its spectacular vistas, often encompassing vast landscapes. This trail is particularly well-suited for beginners or families, offering a high-payoff view for a relatively short and easy commitment, making it a great option for those seeking a quick dose of nature near Scranton.

The Campbell's Ledge and Reservoir Loop takes you through lush forests and past historical coal mine remnants, offering a diverse experience. You'll traverse varied terrain, from dirt paths to steep, rocky sections, before reaching the highlight: the Campbell's Ledge Overlook, which provides panoramic views of the Wyoming Valley. The route also circles the serene Campbell's Ledge Reservoir, a peaceful spot for reflection.

This moderate hike covers 4.3 miles (7.0 km) with an elevation gain of 815 feet (248 metres), typically taking about 2 hours and 3 minutes to complete. Be sure to bring appropriate footwear for the rocky sections and consider using offline mapping tools, as trail markings can be inconsistent. Spring, summer, and fall each offer unique seasonal beauty, from wildflowers to vibrant autumn foliage.

Beyond the natural beauty, the area is rich in history, with legends surrounding Campbell's Ledge and visible remnants of old coal mines. It's also a recognized stop on the Susquehanna River Water Trail, North Branch, and is known for its diverse wildlife, including deer, foxes, and various bird species. This trail offers a blend of natural features and historical landmarks.

The Campbell's Ledge & Reservoir loop offers a delightful blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue, making it one of the more popular trails in Luzerne County. You'll traverse varied terrain, from service roads to rocky paths, leading you to the stunning Campbell's Ledge Overlook with its expansive 30-mile views of the Susquehanna River and Wyoming Valley. The route also circles the tranquil 25-acre Campbell's Ledge Reservoir, providing a peaceful contrast to the dramatic vistas.

This easy 3.6-mile (5.9 km) hike involves about 684 feet (209 metres) of elevation gain and typically takes around 1 hour and 47 minutes to complete. While generally easy, some sections are steep and rocky, so appropriate footwear is a must. Trail markings can be inconsistent, so bringing offline maps is advisable for navigation. The trail is accessible year-round, with each season offering its own unique charm.

Beyond the natural beauty, the area is rich in history, with remnants of old coal mines and archaeological findings. Campbell's Ledge itself is steeped in local lore, once known as "Dial Rock" by early settlers and used as a signal point by indigenous peoples. Keep an eye out for wildlife, as the area is home to deer, foxes, and various birds of prey, adding another layer to your outdoor experience.