Hike Along Scenic Waterfalls In This Beautiful Pennsylvania State Park

By creating 124 state parks that protect more than 300,000 acres, Pennsylvania made sure there are plenty of places to escape the city and enjoy nature. And Lehigh Gorge State Park is one of the best. It surrounds a deep canyon while its trails lead to picturesque waterfalls.

The Lehigh Gorge was carved out of the Lehigh River over millions of years. This river in the Pocono Mountains was used to transport coal at the turn of the 19th century. Canals, dams, and locks were built to move barges. Coal mining gave way to logging in the century's latter half. The land was practically destroyed. By 1980, thick foliage had regrown along the Lehigh River, and 6,107 acres, from the Francis E. Walter Dam in White Haven down to Jim Thorpe, was turned into Lehigh Gorge State Park. The beautiful state park is now a favorite spot for outdoor adventure seekers.

The closest airport to Lehigh Gorge State Park is less than 40 miles away in Allentown, one of the must-see cities in Pennsylvania that aren't Philadelphia. Its Lehigh Valley International Airport (ABE) is a small airport that receives nonstop flights from mostly east coast cities. Though Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) is more than double the distance, nonstop flights from cities all over the world land at the larger airport. If you have extra time in the city, here are the best museums to visit on your trip to Philadelphia.

There are 35 miles of trails in Lehigh Gorge State Park.Lehigh Gorge Trail is part of the longer D&L Trail, which extends for more than 140 miles in Eastern Pennsylvania. This 26-mile section follows the Lehigh River's western curve. The gravel trail sits atop an old railroad line. It's popular with hikers and bikers, and certain sections are open to cross-country skiers and snowmobilers in the winter.

There are three waterfalls along this trail. South of White Haven, you'll stumble upon Cascade Falls near the D&L Lehigh Tannery Trailhead. The least-visited waterfall is surrounded by moss-covered rocks. Even farther south, near the Rockport Access Area, you'll find two more waterfalls. Buttermilk Falls is a multi-tiered waterfall that drops 50 feet, while smaller Luke's Falls is hidden by rhododendrons. Footbridges provide scenic viewpoints for both.

Another trail, Bald Mountain Loop Trail, is near Buttermilk Falls and Luke's Falls. Though much shorter than Lehigh Gorge Trail — it's only 8.5 miles long — this trail is a difficult hike. The beginning is deceptive, as the wide trail winds through a deciduous forest. But the footpath narrows as it climbs a rocky hill. The views are worth it. You can see the Lehigh River and Lehigh Gorge as you look toward the south. Near the top, it also connects with the Vista Trail. This extra, 0.8-mile loop trail brings you to an overlook surrounded by pine trees. The view is spectacular.

Though Lehigh Gorge State Park is a popular hiking spot, it isn't the only notable activity. Since Lehigh Gorge Trail is open to bikers, you can pedal 52 miles, out and back, or you can book a seat on the Bike Train. This 25-mile ride on Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway starts at the historic Mauch Chunk Station in Jim Thorpe, and follows the Lehigh River north. You can bring your own bike ($39 per person) or rent a Trek bike ($66 per person) for the journey. Once the train stops in White Haven, follow Lehigh Gorge Trail back to the starting point.

You can also get in the water in Lehigh Gorge State Park. The northern part of the state park, from the Francis E. Walter Dam to Sandy Run, is a well-known fly-fishing spot. The Lehigh River is stocked with trout, though you could catch a smallmouth bass or walleye, as well. You can even go ice fishing during the winter once the river freezes.

South of White Haven, whitewater rafters take over. The Lehigh River has Class I, II, and III rapids that are controlled by water being released from the Francis E. Walter Dam. Jim Thorpe River Adventures and Pocono Whitewater Rafting offer group trips between May and October. Lehigh Gorge State Park also borders Hickory Run State Park, which is known for scenic hiking trails and gorgeous waterfalls. You'll just keep chasing waterfalls in Pennsylvania.