The Ultimate Weekend Itinerary If You Love Spending Time Outdoors In Pennsylvania
By Beth Price-Williams|Published May 09, 2023
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Beth Price-Williams
Author
A professional writer for more than two decades, Beth has lived in nearly a dozen states – from Missouri and Virginia to Connecticut and Vermont – and Toronto, Canada. In addition to traveling extensively in the U.S. and the U.K., she has a BA in Journalism from Point Park University (PA), a MA in Holocaust & Genocide Studies from Stockton University (NJ), and a Master of Professional Writing from Chatham University (PA). A writer and editor for Only In Your State since 2016, Beth grew up in and currently lives outside of Pittsburgh and when she’s not writing or hanging out with her bunnies, budgies, and chinchilla, she and her daughter are out chasing waterfalls.
A love of the outdoors just comes naturally when we live in Pennsylvania. After all, we’re surrounded by natural beauty – from tumbling waterfalls to vast forests – everywhere we look. One of the biggest challenges we face, when we’re yearning for an old-fashioned adventure, is where to go. There is so much to do, but where do we start? Discover some of the best outdoor adventures & activities in Pennsylvania on this epic two-day journey that showcases just a slice of our state’s natural beauty.
From national parks and campgrounds to waterfalls, canyons, and more, there is so much to love about America’s natural splendor — and June, designated as Great Outdoors Month, is the perfect time to get outside.
Our two-day weekend itinerary in Pennsylvania doesn’t require a lot of driving – just 49 miles – but it is bursting with natural beauty and fun adventures. Drive time clocks in at around 90 minutes, but that doesn’t take into account how much time you spend at each stop. Pack up the car; grab some snacks, and hit the road on this epic outdoor adventure.
Carve out at least a few hours to experience the natural beauty and attractions at Tobyhanna State Park. If you’re a fan of the water, start your exploration at Tobyhanna Lake. Spanning 170 acres, the lake is popular with kayakers and boaters. Spread out a beach towel on the sandy beach during the summer; soak up the sun, and cool off in the crystal-clear lake.
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Tobyhanna State Park, PA-423, Tobyhanna, PA 18466, USA
While the lake is arguably the crown jewel of Tobyhanna State Park, you’ll find a full menu of fun awaits. Follow the 10 miles of hiking trails; go mountain biking, or have a picnic.
Whether you sit indoors or outdoors, you’ll be treated to absolutely gorgeous views of the water at The Water's Edge. A glance at the menu is sure to get your mouth watering as you browse the generous selection of classics – steak, Chilean sea bass, and chicken, for example. Save a bit of room, too, to have one of the decadent desserts.
The Water's Edge Restaurant, 432 Grange Rd, Mt Pocono, PA 18344, USA
Our next stop brings us to a waterfall wonderland. Bushkill Falls is home to some of the best waterfalls in Pennsylvania. Make sure you wear a pair of comfy shoes for your journey along one of the hiking trails. The Red Trail, tallying just two miles, leads to all eight waterfalls. Other shorter trails are also available.
Bushkill Falls is a private park, so you will have to pay an admission fee, which helps with the upkeep of the natural attraction. The park also features a gift shop, a snack bar, gem mining, and a playground.
Dingmans Falls
Our next stop brings us to the second-tallest waterfall in Pennsylvania – Dingmans Falls
If you’re a bit tired from chasing waterfalls at Bushkill Falls, you’ll love Dingmans Falls, the second-tallest waterfall in Pennsylvania. Follow a short paved path, clocking in at just half a mile each way, to the towering, 130-foot cascade.
Stop by the visitor center when you arrive, if it’s open. The short path to the waterfall is wheelchair and stroller-accessible. Pets are not permitted.
Chalet In Dingmans Ferry
Check into an enchanting chalet in Dingmans Ferry for a luxurious overnight.
Discover a tiny piece of paradise at this chalet in Dingmans Ferry, nestled on seven acres in the woods. Gaze at the stars as you soak in the hot tub of this Pennsylvania Vrbo that sleeps up to six guests in its three bedrooms. The home also has two full baths.
