It’s pretty tough to top a waterfall hike, so for Ricketts Glen Falls Trail to feature over 20 glorious cascades over a 7.2-mile trek is fairly impressive. The trail is generally advertised as being particularly difficult, but given patience and proper attention, even more beginner hikers can conquer this chain of cataracts. One particular point of park pride is Ganoga Falls, which at 94 feet stands among the tallest in Pennsylvania. The trail is open year round, but there is a strict requirement that winter adventurers retain proper equipment for ice climbing!
This incredible natural resource is stunning year round, but a trip to Hawk Mountain Sanctuary is particularly breathtaking during the autumn migratory season. Roughly 18,000 falcons, hawks, and eagles pass through the area per annum, starting around the middle of August and extending until mid-December. During this exciting season, Hawk Mountain Sanctuary has experts stationed at the North Lookout daily to answer questions and help amateur ornithologists identify species. Spend an hour, an afternoon, or even a full day taking in the almost overwhelming beauty of some of America’s most fascinating animals, in one of the most scenic areas of the state.
Designed and built by the United States Army Corps of Engineers, Lambs Creek is ideal for those who appreciate an impeccably conceived and maintained trail. Measuring in at about 3.5 miles, this trail is contained within Pine Creek Gorge, often called “the Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania,” one of the most breathtaking areas of the Keystone State, and the country at large. The Lambs Creek hiking and biking trail is stunning year round, but becomes particularly beautiful during fall foliage season!
Perfectly set in the serene Michaux State Forest, Pole Steeple Trail flawlessly balances distance and difficulty for a hiking opportunity ideal for all skill levels. Measuring three quarters of a mile, Pole Steeple traverses a variety of elevations, making for some steep portions. Be sure to leave time to admire the entire park from the Pole Steeple Overlook, a perfect quartzite outcrop that serves as a fitting reward for getting out there and moving your body!
This trail was originally built to connect the Mid State Trail and Tuscarora Trail but Standing Stone is a destination in itself. Situated among beautiful animal and plant life and breathtaking scenery, Standing Stone is over 80 miles-long. Along the trail, moving through the town of Mapleton, hikers will come across the Thousand Steps. These steps, which were built by quarry workers in the 1950s, are located in Jacks Narrow near Mount Union. Parts of this trail can be rather challenging, but it is well worth the effort.
]]>With beginner, intermediate, and advanced tracks, Breezewood is perfect for a rider learning their way, or a group of riders looking to visit the same location. Closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays, the rest of the week features 12 hours of open riding, 8 a.m.-8 p.m. On site rentals and camps make this an ideal option for even the very beginners.
Two thousand acres of technically advanced trails, all ready and waiting to blow your mind! Experience 2,000 feet of elevation change as you explore the winding dirt paths of lost trails, resulting in one of the most incredible views anywhere in the Poconos. Little daredevils can try out the “mini-moto” park, a quarter-mile track with mini jumps and banked turns.
From a beginner track to race days, Doublin Gap is a veritable playground for motocross enthusiasts. Practice days cost $30, and feature a freshly-groomed track for optimal enjoyment. Feel like a professional from your very first ride at this Shippensburg location.
Seventy-two acres of motocross magic. Switchback MX features trail riding, as well as outdoor and indoor training tracks. Beginner riders can work their skills year-round, no matter the weather, at this Butler location.
Featuring a full-sized track for experienced riders, and an ATV track that allows youth riders to try things out. This Fredericksburg location has delighted generations of riders and shows no signs of slowing down.
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At just about 1.5 miles-long, the George W. Childs Park Trail is one of the best options for families with little ones, or those looking for a more leisurely jaunt. Enjoy a lake, waterfalls, and plenty of natural beauty, including some seriously great birdwatching. Plenty of nearby, similar trails allow for a customized hike of different lengths, should you chose to make a day of it!
A slightly more moderate option, measuring just about three miles-long. The Meadow Run Trail boasts views of multiple waterfalls, the Youghiogheny River, and a breathtaking gorge. After a more difficult first quarter mile, the trail eases and families can expect stunning vistas, loads of ecological exploration, and even two very cool natural water slides formed by rock.
Set on a defunct railway, this trail measures just over five miles and is perfect for families looking for a longer hike that still maintains a kid-friendly level of difficulty. Due to its railroad history, the trail itself is largely flat, and offers a great opportunity to teach children about both local ecology and the fascinating history and engineering behind our nation’s rails. Lose yourself in the bucolic country of Lancaster County, peaceful horse farms, and the lovely Conewago Creek.
Shawmut Trail is an all-seasons treasure. At about two miles in length, this Smethport gem is suitable for even the youngest hikers, and a stop at Hamlin Lake makes it fun for the whole family. Take in the incredible natural beauty of the area, and spend some time boating or fishing on the lake, for an unforgettable family experience.
Whether you bring your horse, your dog, or just your little ones, a trip to Cook Forest State Park is a must for Pennsylvania families. Camp out, or just spend an afternoon, and explore this incredible natural resource near Erie. Bring a book on local plant life and become an amateur botanist, or keep your eyes peeled for wildlife, including the sometimes-spotted area black bear!
]]>Hot Spots To Fish: Deservedly, Montauk, NY at the eastern end of Long Island is considered a storied mecca for striped bass fishermen. If you’re not going surf fishing on the beach or fishing from a jetty, Gone Fishing Marina (631-668-3232, gonefishingmarina78.com) can set up a charter trip for you. If it’s booked up, try Star Island Yacht Club (631-668-5052, starislandyc.com) or Montauk Marine Basin (631-668-5900, marinebasin.com).
Find the best fishing spots near you:
Down south, talk to the folks at Captain Hogg’s Charter Service (757-876-1590, captainhoggscharters.com) about fishing around the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel. Overdrawn Charters (252-202-4623, overdrawncharters.com) in Manteo, N.C. can help as well.
Tackle You’ll Need: Stick with 30- to 50-pound braid or monofilament and a 60-pound-test shock leader of fluorocarbon, with saltwater-ready spinning tackle heavy enough to handle 10- to 14-foot rods. Penn, Quantum and Okuma specialize in fairly inexpensive surf-fishing rods, and reels to match. If you have a reel, but no rod yet, the new Black Inshore Rods from Lamiglas are up to the task. The five spinning and five casting models range from a 6-foot, 10-inch light finesse spinning rod to a 7 ½-foot casting rod rated for lures from 3 to 12 ounces in weight.
Quick tip: The most successful anglers are those who spot gulls or other wheeling seabirds feeding on baitfish driven to the top by stripers and who then cast into the melee without dispersing the bass. From a boat, the trick is to approach schools carefully and take advantage of wind or tide to drift to within casting range. The stripers will stay up as long as the baitfish are hemmed against the surface.
Best Lures/Baits: The 4 1/2-inch Acme Kastmater XL spoon, the 1 ½-ounce Odin Popper, and the 5-inch pencil popper from Tsunami are popular artificials up and down the Atlantic seaboard. Other popular options include the 6- or 7-inch Savage Gear Sandeel Swimbait, 9-inch Sassy Shad swimbait and the 6-inch Rapala X-Rap SubWalk.
Find the best bait and tackle shops near you:
For anglers who’d rather soak baits from a boat or in the surf, live or cut bait, such as Atlantic menhaden (peanut bunker), herring, porgies, eels, bloodworms, anchovies and mullet, can flip the switch on chaotic striper blitzes.
Related articles that may interest you:
Fish Here This Fall—5 Reel-Screaming Adventures
How to Choose the Best Times to Fish
Almost unbelievably convenient to Philadelphia, Livezey Rock is a true local favorite for rock climbers. Hike an easy quarter mile to Livezey Rock, schist rock made climbable in the 1930s thanks to blasting by the Civilian Conservation Corps. Experience both quality bouldering and top rope climbing, with several available anchors.
One of the best options for bouldering in Pennsylvania, Mount Gretna is a favorite that presents plenty of options! Climbers of every skill level can find challenging and fun opportunities, with hikes to access them ranging from between a few minutes to a half hour. Whether you’re looking to spend an hour or a full day, Mount Gretna is certainly a must-climb in the Keystone State.
As one of the best sports climbing areas in Pennsylvania, Birdsboro Quarry offers a standout opportunity to spend time with nature and reset yourself. Enjoy a roughly 3.5-mile hike, and some of the best climbing in the state along the way! Experience a true climbing community with a trip to Birdsboro Quarry.
Explore one of the best bouldering areas in state, accessible through just a short hike! Spot local wildlife, take in the scenery, and get a great workout all with a single visit to beautiful Gifford Pinchot State Park. Suitable for climbers of various skill levels, Boulder Point is easily among the best climbing in state.
Though possibly possessing an unfortunate name for a climbing destination, Breakneck Rocks proves one of the best opportunities in state for the climbing-obsessed. With areas suitable for nearly every skill level, Breakneck is accessible by a short, lovely hike. This option is located on privately owned land, so be sure to remain courteous and respectful at all times to help maintain access for the greater climbing community!
]]>If you’re looking to dig into a longer hike, the Beaver Meadows Hiking Trail System is a tremendous option in the Pennsylvanian Northwest. A collection of quality trails, including the Beaver Meadows Loop, Seldom Seen Trail, Salmon Creek Loop, Penoke Path, and the Lakeside Loop, allow for a stunning variety of terrain and views. Truly a treasure of the Keystone State, the Beaver Meadow’s Hiking Trail System measures just over seven miles of accessible terrain, and makes for some of the best leaf peeping in the state.
Many of the trails at Big Pocono State Park are steep, as it is a mountaintop. If you are a highly inexperienced hiker, you may want to practice with some easier hikes before you visit. Indian Trail is a stunning trek, offering a beautiful vista from the eastern cliffs. During the fall, this park truly comes to life with vibrant color.
Another phenomenal opportunity to combine important national and state history with a beautiful day in the great outdoors, the four-mile Johnny Reb Trail at Gettysburg National Military Park is tough to beat. The trail was arranged by the local Boy Scouts of America Council, and aims to serve as a Confederate’s-eye view of the battle of Gettysburg. Experience the monuments and landmarks of this pivotal battle, set against nature’s most beautiful display—a transformational experience to be remembered for years to come.
Another shining opportunity for a longer hike, the Karl Boyes Multi-Purpose National Recreation Trail combines the grandeur of fall foliage with the stunning beauty of Lake Erie. Measuring in at 13.5 miles, this trail brings you the best of Presque Isle State Park with one convenient trek. Spot the leaves reflected against the incredible waters of Lake Erie, and even take a breathtaking break on the beach with one of the best foliage hikes in Pennsylvania! This trail is also ADA accessible.
The magnificent, sprawling Rothrock State Forest boasts nearly 300 miles of hiking trails over 215,000 beautiful acres. The Mid-State Trail is a 326-mile cross-country trail that stretches from Green Ridge State Forest in Maryland to the Finger Lakes trail in New York. Roughly 42 miles of the trail winds through Rothrock. This trail can be rather rugged and difficult for the inexperienced, so come prepared. Sixteen miles of the 70-mile-long Standing Stone Trail also meanders through this state forest. This hiking here is also fairly rugged, but it affords some glorious views and interesting geologic formations.
]]>This pet-friendly campground situated in the amazing Pocono Mountains offers an array of campsites, cabin rentals, and RV sites sure to please everyone. There are four sites to choose from: tent, camper, field, and seasonal, and four cabin type rentals. Seasonal sites allow you to save money and wear and tear on your vehicle. With management approval, you can even customize your site! Some amenities include electric hookups, sanitary dump station, and sewer hookups. Planning that big family reunion or other get-togethers? Field sites are available that include common water and electric hookups with nearby bath facilities. If you want to explore activities outside the campgrounds, there are plenty of nearby shopping venues.
Formerly known as Hill’s Family Campground, the Presque Isle Passage RV Park and Cabin Rentals is just seven miles from Presque Isle Beach, which was voted the No. 1 freshwater beach in North America. Open year round, campers love the many types of accommodations available: tent camping, RVs, small mobile homes, and yurts. Guests will need to bring their own linens, towels, and bedding for the rental units as they are not provided. This facility is big rig friendly with full hookup sites and a swimming pool. A camp store on-site is available for those forgotten items or supplies. This campground is also dog friendly.
Snuggled in the Allegheny Mountains, Ye Olde Mill Family Campground in Burnt Cabins offers tent and RV camping along with RV and cabin rentals. See flour made as it was years ago in the historic and still operational Burnt Cabins Grist Mill on site. At the general store, you can actually purchase some of the fresh ground flour. Amenities here include water, electric, and cable hookups along with a dump station. Take some time to use this as your base camp for an extended visit or just overnight. Note: Although the website says the facility is pet friendly, the RV trailer and cabin rentals are not.
Located on the upper end of Keystone Lake, Silver Canoe Campground offers something for everyone. Full hookup sites are available as well as cabin rentals and seasonal sites. Silver Canoe Campground has plenty of activities available in all seasons. Pets are allowed at this campsite but check for restrictions.
Cherry Springs State Park offers stargazing that astronomers dream about. The park features a rustic campground with 30 sites, picnic areas, and dump station. Small observation domes are available to rent but does not include telescopes. This is a seasonal campsite, opening the second Friday in April and closing in November. Pets are not allowed in the campground.
Located in the beautiful Rothrock State Forest, this park sits on 90,000 acres, and offers many recreational experiences such as hiking, mountain biking, and fishing. Winter activities include snowmobiling or cross-country skiing. The park is situated on the edge of the Seven Mountains, a magnificent area that offers many wonderful views and solitude. There are approximately 49 tent and trailer campsites in the area. Campsites are classified as Modern electric, modern non-electric, and modern tent only. Pets are allowed at specified campsites and there is a pet fee. This state park is open year-round to camping and other activities.
Located in Beaver County, Raccoon Creek State Park is one of the largest parks in Pennsylvania, and began as a recreational area operated by the National Park Service. Camping ranges from rustic non-electric to modern cabins. Raccoon Creek State Park offers many amenities such as the Frankfort Mineral Springs, educational programs, or just the peace and solitude that come from escaping to nature. There are some areas that are ADA accessible with ADA accessible restrooms. Some campsites are pet friendly but be sure to verify before bringing your furry friend(s). Make sure to clean up after yourself and furry friends to preserve the beauty of the park for yourself and others!
]]>If you’re crazy about bass fishing, a trip to Conneaut Lake is for you. As Pennsylvania’s largest inland, natural lake, this Crawford County gem is a joy for both beginner and expert fisherman alike. At 925 acres, with a 75-foot maximum depth, Conneaut Lake is perfect for a calm day out on the water with a rod, reel, and cold one.
This Susquehanna tributary is a long-time favorite of Pennsylvania fishing enthusiasts, and features both wild and stocked trout. Enjoy the bucolic countryside surrounding this designated Pennsylvania Scenic River while you relax and reel ‘em in. If you’re a novice angler, check out the Yellow Breeches Outfitters guide services. They offer an excellent fly fishing school that can teach beginners the basics.
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To truly experience the beauty of the Poconos, a trip to Lake Wallenpaupack is certainly in order. This artificial lake constructed in 1926 covers 5,700 acres of serene beauty and is stocked to the gills with bass! Whether you’re looking for smallmouth, bluegill, or largemouth, Lake Wallenpaupack has something for everyone and is an ideal day with your family, your pals, or just your own thoughts. If you need some gear before you go, stop in at Hawley’s Wallenpaupack Sport Shop for bait and other supplies.
As the largest tributary of the Delaware River, the Lehigh River is a fisherman’s dream. The water is home to a wide variety of fish, including carp, smallmouth and largemouth bass, panfish, catfish, and muskellunge. Get great advice, fishing secrets, and bait and tackle at Willie Marx’s Bait, Tackle, & More in Whitehall, Pennsylvania, right on the river. Whether you spend a few hours or a weekend, this gorgeous location is perfect for leaving your worries behind and focusing on the fish.
Blue Marsh Lake is a manmade oasis that is home to multiple species of fish, including several types of bass and catfish. If you want to rent a kayak for your adventure, visit Blue Marsh Outdoors in Bernville, Pennsylvania. They’ll set you up with everything you’ll need. Experience the beauty of Pennsylvania alongside the tranquility of Blue Marsh Lake, and come home with a serious haul!
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The best option in the state for beginners, Lost Trails offers opportunities for non-owners to rent, and learn to use, an ATV. Experience incredible views of the Poconos, and develop a new skill all at the same time!
Over 140 miles of trail, and incredible Allegheny Mountain views, make Rock Run Recreation an ideal space for ATV enthusiasts. Get ready for rip-roaring excitement, glorious vistas, and a real sense of community when you visit this location.
Leave your worries behind and hit the trails at Mountain Ridge ATV Park. With terrain geared towards every skill level, this Reels Corner park is an exhilarating escape. Check the website for events like Poker Runs, Night Rides, and races.
Many places can offer the run-of-the-mill ATV trails off-roaders have come to expect, but Mines and Meadows is one of the few places that allows visitors to go off-road, and underground! Journey through abandoned limestone mines that feature spooky twists and turns, and even underground lakes. If you prefer to keep things topside, enjoy 84 miles of trails and almost 900 acres of nonstop excitement!
Formerly known as Pohopoco Tract, this summer and winter off-roading area permits registered Class II ATVs that are less than 58 inches in width and under 1,200 pounds. The area offers stunning views of the Pocono Mountains.
*Note: Age restrictions, special licenses, and other requirements for off highway vehicles vary from state to state. Before heading out on your OHV, please consult your local regulations.
]]>Located near one of the most family-friendly attractions out there, Hersheypark Camping Resort is a great option for both those who want to partake in the Hershey experience, or those who just want a relaxing getaway! Whether you bring your own tent or RV, or rent an available cabin, this spot is perfect to forget your worries and create lasting memories.
Pine Cradle Lake is the perfect place to leave the world behind and reconnect with the people who really make life wonderful. Whether you rent a campsite or a cabin, this Rome Township destination is both beautiful and full of kid-friendly excitement. An 18-acre lake sets the stunning scene, and activities and themed weekends keep the energy high.
Three-hundred serene acres in the heart of the Poconos already sound too good to be true, even without the added excitement of Otter Lake Camp’s offerings. Take a swim in the 80-acre lake, try your hand at bass fishing, play tennis on lighted courts, and pass any rainy days at the heated indoor pool!
Nestled along the border of Moraine State Park, Bear Run Campground is an affordable, exhilarating option for families looking to spice up their summer. In addition to themed weekends, this Portersville location offers activities like horseback riding, sports, children’s gem mining, and even boasts an exciting game room for rainy weather.
“Come as friends, leave as family,” is the motto at Cozy Creek. This wonderful family campground has spacious campsites and cabins, and plenty of fun activities for the entire family to enjoy. Each campsite has a picnic table and fire pit. Some of the activities available at Cozy Creek include fire truck rides, relay races, arts and crafts and movie nights.
]]>If you’re looking to do some fabulous camping in Lancaster County, look no further than Country Acres Campground. This campground is conveniently located close to all things Amish, and serves as an affordable way to enjoy both cultural and natural intrigue. Open March through November, Country Acres offers many of the same amenities of a hotel without sacrificing the charms of RV camping. From free Wi-Fi to a beach-style pool to a fenced in dog park, the entire family will be occupied and satisfied. Guests can even take advantage of discounted tickets to Bird-In-Hand Stage shows, presenting Amish-themed musical theater.
In South Central Pennsylvania, it’s tough to beat the RV camping experience presented by Dogwood Acres Campgrounds. Set beautifully in Newville, this campground has previously received national recognition for excellence, and one visit shows precisely why. Apart from incredible surroundings, Dogwood Acres puts on a great schedule of events for campers. From the annual Memorial Day Pinewood Derby race to Pirate Weekends to Christmas in September, this campground gives the rest a run for their money.
Conveniently located near both natural and manmade attractions, Twin Grove RV Resort is a wonderful way to stay while you play. With both pull-through and back-in RV sites, all with free Wi-Fi and Satellite TV, parties of all types can be hosted handily. Themed weekends and special activities make for grand family vacations, and the amenities on site are seemingly endless. From 18 holes of both miniature and Frisbee golf to sports courts to an indoor movie theater for rainy days, this Pine Grove outfit is ready to give you the best family vacation of all time!
Set on 80 glorious, mountaintop acres, Pioneer Campground is certainly one of the most beautiful RV camping sites in state, if not the country! Located on top of Sonestown Mountain, this location offers an abundance of animal life and natural beauty to admire while you relax in nature. Additionally, festive themed weekends, contests, and events make each trip uniquely exciting and lend to lasting memories. Be sure to keep an eye out for a variety of local events which elevate an already great stay at Pioneer Campground!
If you’re looking to spend some time absorbing the important history of Gettysburg, there are few more immersive ways than with a trip to Gettysburg Campground. The amenities are expansive, ranging from organized activities to hayrides, and even an on- site RV repair shop! Combined with the incredible scholastic opportunities located just minutes away, Gettysburg Campground is a great way to pack a family vacation with equal parts instruction and exhilaration!
]]>Let’s begin! If you’re interested in fulfilling yet not-too-difficult hikes, these wonderful trails have just that. From pristine rivers to sparkling falls, feast your eyes on the natural beauty of these incredible treks.
Gear up. One of the most pivotal parts of a successful and comfortable hike is having the right pair of shoes. We’ve narrowed down a selection of some of the best hiking boots around.
Looking for a photo-worthy hike? These picturesque trails in Pennsylvania bring hikers spectacular sights. From eagle and hawk sanctuaries to trails decorated with remarkable flora, here are a few of the most scenic hikes in the state.
Whether you’re hiking just a few easy miles or you’re embarking on a more challenging, several-hour hike, it’s very important to have a way to contact someone. Here are a few easy ways to charge your gadgets if you run out of battery on the trails.
Before your hike, make a checklist. Don't forget these essential items.
]]>If you’re looking to start stand-up paddleboarding as a very beginner, there could be few better locations to look towards than Blue Marsh Lake and the nearby equipment specialists at the Crank. This Wernersville store covers a variety of outdoor activities, and manages to have one of the best options for renting state of the art SUP equipment as well. The Crank also offers demonstrations every Tuesday evening at Blue Marsh Lake as a way to introduce newcomers to the sport, and experienced boarders to new inventory. A relaxed, evening ride is just the ticket to take the stress or fear of trying something new out of the equation, and the expert staff at the Crank will be standing by to assist, regardless of your ability.
For city slickers looking for a respite from that urban frenzy, look no further than Falls Township Community Park. Conveniently located close to Philadelphia and pretty as a picture, this Levittown location claims a gorgeous, 75-acre lake, perfect for paddleboarding. Looking for equipment or expert advice? Nearby Driftwood Water Adventures presents a number of opportunities for boarding. If you’re looking to bring your friends in on the event, book an affordable group outing, which comes complete with safety briefing and SUP demonstration. If you’re already familiar with the basics of boarding, look into the yoga and fitness group outings, which combine more conventional exercises with the idea of SUP.
Pittsburgh is a fantastic city, but sometimes you just need to breathe that country air. If you’re having a more claustrophobic week, consider heading north to Bridgewater and spending some time on the Beaver River. Looking to rent a board or take a start-from-scratch lesson? Beaver Boardshop presents a number of options, including partial and unlimited season passes for a discount. After a rigorous but relaxing day on the water, reward yourself with the very conveniently located Tiki Bar, situated just by the Beaver Boardshop launch.
It would be difficult to even dream up a more picturesque location for paddleboarding than the Poconos, an opportunity fully embraceable with time spent on the Delaware River. Even better, rentals and lessons are readily available at Mauka Nalu, a local SUP outfit. This Delaware operation specializes both in basic instruction for the very beginner, and fitness outings with a master instructor. Whether you’re looking to try a new outdoor, athletic activity, or really hone in on the fitness possibilities of the paddleboard, Mauka Nalu is a professional, endlessly peppy option ready to walk you through each step. Visit the Delaware River for an unforgettable stand-up paddleboarding experience!
With 1,450 stunning acres of lake, it’s no surprise that Nockamixon State Park is an ideal opportunity for stand-up paddleboard enthusiasts in southeastern Pennsylvania. If you’re an experienced boarder just looking for a rental and a launch, Nockamixon Boat Rental is a great, convenient option. A beautiful location on one of Pennsylvania’s most breathtaking pieces of land makes this Quakertown location an easy add to our list.
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One of Pennsylvania’s most beloved bodies of water, Lake Wallenpaupack, is unsurprisingly one of the best spots in the Keystone State to let loose and make a splash! Fifty-two miles of shoreline makes for plenty of space to try out your tricks, or get your sea legs if you’re newer to the pursuit. Keep the fun going after some time on the lake with on-site recreation, and hundreds of acres of surrounding natural space for endless Pocono playtime. Incredible vistas, fun surroundings, and plenty of water make Lake Wallenpaupack an easy choice.
The Allegheny River represents some of the most ecologically diverse and scenic stretches of water in all of Pennsylvania, qualities that make it practically perfect for a day of jet skiing adventure. Whether you visit tiny islands dotted along the river, or just bask in the exhilaration of a day on the water, a trip down the Allegheny is tough to beat. Beat the stress of the Steel City, or whichever ‘burb you call home, with a carefree day jet skiing on the Allegheny!
As the 13th largest lake in the world, it’s only natural that our Great Lake Erie graces the list of awesome jet ski destinations. Our local wonder is renowned for its maritime history, and today plays host to numerous recreational activities. Explore beautiful Presque Isle State Park, take a swim, spend some time in the sun, or simply take in the beautiful coastline of our truly great lake.
If you’re looking to take in a whole new view of Philadelphia, a jet ski on the Schuylkill is fairly tough to beat. Additionally, as one of the only significant rivers whose entire watershed can be found within the state of Pennsylvania, the Schuylkill is one of our most truly native waterways. Experience the City of Brotherly Love like never before as you navigate the waters of the Schuylkill for a day you’ll always remember.
This natural bay located off the coast of Eerie, Pennsylvania, is an ideal destination for jet skiing. Head to Port Eerie Sports to rent a jet ski for $89 per hour. Presque Isle Bay is also perfect for water skiing, fishing, swimming, and boating.
]]>Experience the more natural side of the Steel City with a leisurely afternoon spent on the Allegheny River. Whether you purchase a season pass or single hour, these gentle waters are perfect as an introduction to water sports. Check the website for social options like a Saturday morning Kayak and Coffee!
If you’re a total beginner, but looking to ascend quickly through the ranks to greatness, consider a two-day kayaking clinic on the Lehigh River. Whitewater Challengers looks to quickly and safely get you acclimated to being in a kayak, and even taking on the challenges of rough water. Day one takes place on still waters, while day two will expose you to the challenges faced by master paddlers.
If you’re looking to baby-step it into the outdoors from the comfort of your city cocoon, look no further than Hidden River Outfitters. This Philadelphia-based company offers exciting, urban kayaking tours for all skill levels, including those on their very first paddle. Choose to explore the banks of the Schuylkill, or take a Manayunk Tour, which includes either a brunch, lunch, or happy hour at the incredibly hip Manayunk Brewing Company.
If you’re a beginner with more of an independent streak, consider renting a kayak or canoe from Marsh Creek Watersports, located on beautiful Marsh Creek Lake. This Downingtown outlet offers a la carte rentals of kayaks, canoes, paddleboards, and even small motorboats. If you want to have a bit more hands-on help, consider one of their 90-minute night tours, which take on the beauty and nature of the lake environment in the dark!
Explore the beauty of our state on the lovely Lake Erie with Lake Erie Outfitters! Located at the gorgeous Presque Isle State Park, this is undoubtedly one of the more stunning ways to learn about kayaking. Choose a rental or a tour, either way you’ll be paddling happy!
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