There are more awesome restaurants, bars and entertainment venues in the Lehigh Valley than ever, but let's not forget the original source of fun and relaxation: the great outdoors. These four spots are close enough for a day trip and showcase the natural splendor of eastern Pennsylvania with activities for the whole family.
Glen Onoko
One of the best hiking routes in the area, Glen Onoko Run Trail is a four-mile loop well worth the hour's drive to Jim Thorpe. “Onoko” is a Lenape word for “peak,” and the spot is said to be named for a wafty legend involving either a Lenape chief or “princess.”
Hikers love the challenge of the steep, rocky climb, and the experience of clambering alongside waterfalls and cascades (some as high as 75 feet) is breathtaking. Proper footwear is a must on this trail, as the rocks can get slick and muddy. It's also advised that you make the loop starting with a trek up the falls rather than the other way around, as the boulders are much less treacherous as an ascent. Impressive as this trail is, it has been the site of a fair few accidents, so come prepared and watch your step!
That said, there's a lot of opportunity for leisure if you stop for lunch, photo ops behind falling water or fancy a dip in the pool formed by some of the lower falls. On a hot summer day there are few things more refreshing than getting drenched by a waterfall!
D&L Trail, Jim Thorpe | delawareandlehigh.org
Whitewater Rafting
There are various outfits in the Poconos offering adventures on the Lehigh River, and if you haven't tried whitewater rafting, you should pick one and give it a go!
In most cases, a raft will hold four to eight people, so this is a wonderful way to get a group working together, whether it's family, friends or co-workers.
The river makes for a manageable ride suitable for ages eight and up, no experience necessary, but if you're looking for more action, go during a dam release for more active rapids. The river is surrounded by mountains and protected woodlands that form a soul-soothing backdrop while gently wielding your oar through a calm patch. Experienced guides make sure everyone knows the ropes before the fleet sets out, but just know that between a swim break, a water gun fight and the possibility of falling overboard, your clothes and shoes will be soaked.
A rafting trip is an all-day event, so bring a lunch (there should be a waterproof place to stash it onboard), or check out Pocono Whitewater for a free BBQ picnic.
1519 State Route 903, Jim Thorpe | 570.325.3655 | poconowhitewater.com
Crystal Cave
Along with Lost River Caverns in Hellertown, Kutztown's Crystal Cave is a fascinating way to beat the heat by delving into the natural formations of a living cave. With the cave's steady temperature in the 50s, you might even need extra layers.
Discovered in 1871 while blasting for limestone on a farm, the cave was quickly named for the calcium crystals that decorate its walls. Kids and adults alike can spend time identifying fanciful shapes in the stalactites, stalagmites, flowstone and other formations while touring the cave.
Crystal Cave has a long history, including playing chapel for the first cave wedding in Pennsylvania in 1919. It was renovated under new ownership in the ‘20s and ‘30s and has since added a mini golf course, made with historic relics, and an ice cream parlor, so there's plenty of aboveground fun to be had once you emerge.
Kids can get in on the discovery of natural phenomenon with the purchase of a special bag of dirt at Crystal Cave's rock and mineral shop. Any gems and fossils hidden in the dirt can be revealed using the fun on-site sluice.
963 Crystal Cave Rd., Kutztown | 610.683.6765 | crystalcavepa.com
Evergreen Lake
If you want to spend more than just a day outside, you may want to plan a getaway to Evergreen Lake's campsite in Bath. It's close and convenient at the base of Blue Mountain with 300 acres of beautiful woodland.
You have the option of bringing your cushy RV and availing yourself of the electric and cable TV hookup, or roughing it in a tent, cooking over a campfire. The fully-stocked lake is a main attraction for leisurely fishing expeditions, but Evergreen Lake provides so much more, like an arcade, playground and miniature golf course. Scheduled weekend activities include flea markets, potluck dinners, horseshoe tournaments and more opportunities to mingle with fellow campers.
Whether you want to be situated near neighbors or stake your tent in the cover of a fully wooded area, Evergreen will give you that summer camp feeling with long days of fun and warm nights of relaxation.
2375 Benders Dr., Bath | 610.837.6401 | evergreenlake.net
by Daisy Willis | photography by colin coleman
