Don't Let These Stunning Views Fool You, Shuman Point Blue Trail In Pennsylvania Is Actually An Easy Hike
By Rachel Raimondi|Published January 19, 2023
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Rachel Raimondi
Author
Writer some days, editor other days, nerd all days. Love to travel to lesser-known spots and give them the love they deserve. Independently owned motor inns, Mom and Pop restaurants, uncrowded National Parks and trails.
In between these, spend my free time virtually adventuring through point-and-click games. Native New Yorker but can frequently be found roaming other parts of the United States.
Nestled among the astounding backdrop of the 2,400-square-mile Pocono Mountains, you’ll find the 5,700-acre Lake Wallenpaupack. The lake is an extremely popular place for swimming, boating, fishing, and other recreation along its shores. But there is a section of it in the town of Hawley that has not been developed. At the Shuman Point Natural Area and its 3.5-mile Shuman Point Blue Trail, you can take in the scenery and surroundings along the northeastern part of the lake without all the tourists and activity. And most importantly, without all the work of a strenuous hike!
While the Shuman Point Blue Trail is a loop, if you want to get the most elevated parts out of the way first, it is recommended to head out east from the parking lot and follow the trail in a counter-clockwise direction.
But you’ll be on the wildly popular lake’s much quieter side.
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The first leg of the hike will keep you within a dense forest, but once you start seeing the lake and its glistening water, you’ll continue to see it from different vantage points and angles.
Whether it's within the lush greenery along the trail or closer to the shores of the lake, you’ll find plenty of peace and quiet here in a natural setting.
Just be aware that although this is an easy hike, there are a few changes in altitude as well as some wet areas. Make sure that you have proper footwear.
No matter what part of the trail you're on, you’ll be able to take in the plants and animals of this unique area of Pennsylvania up close and personal.
Among the many types of vegetation you’ll come across along the way include blueberry bushes, chestnut oaks, white pines, and reindeer moss. And look out for mallards and great blue herons, too.
Shuman Point Blue Trail is perfect any time of the year, with varying landscapes of both the forest and the lake, all dependent on the season and weather conditions.
If the hike gets to be too much for you or you just want to take a moment, not to worry. There are plenty of different spots along the way where you can sit and take in the surroundings.
What’s your favorite easy and scenic hike in Pennsylvania? Tell us in the comments!
Looking for additional accessible and beautiful hikes? Check out these other easy Pennsylvania hikes.
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