Northampton, Pennsylvania offers outdoor lovers easy access to the Lehigh River for paddling, peaceful hiking trails, and scenic biking paths. With nearby parks and protected nature preserves, it’s a quiet escape for exploring Pennsylvania’s natural beauty from spring through fall.
Northampton, Pennsylvania offers outdoor lovers easy access to the Lehigh River for paddling, peaceful hiking trails, and scenic biking paths. With nearby parks and protected nature preserves, it’s a quiet escape for exploring Pennsylvania’s natural beauty from spring through fall.
Outdoor Adventure in Northampton, Pennsylvania
Northampton is an ideal base for outdoor enthusiasts looking to explore northeastern Pennsylvania’s natural settings. Situated along the Lehigh River, this small town offers a combination of water-based and land activities in a calm, accessible environment.
Discover the unique natural wonders, summits, and scenic landmarks that make Northampton, Pennsylvania special.
★ 7.2⌖ 16.98 milesExplore the Delaware River for breathtaking views and an array of outdoor activities. Canoeing, hiking along the Appalachian Trail, and fishing are popular here. Spring to fall offers the best experience with opportunities to see diverse wildlife.
★ 8.5⌖ 19.53 milesExplore Glen Onoko Falls near Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania. Known for its scenic beauty and challenging access, this area offers hiking and birding opportunities. Access to the falls is restricted for safety. Visit in spring or fall for the best experience.
★ 7.4⌖ 21.43 milesModerateExplore Ringing Rocks County Park near Upper Black Eddy, PA, featuring a moderate hike through unique ringing boulders and a 15-foot waterfall. Enjoy rock striking, wildlife spotting, and peaceful forest trails in mostly dry conditions from spring to fall.
★ 6.3⌖ 23.61 milesModerateExperience the stunning vistas of Pulpit Rock along the Appalachian Trail in Kempton, PA. This moderately challenging hike is ideal for adventure seekers and photographers, with picturesque views especially captivating in spring and fall.
★ 8.8⌖ 25.92 milesHawk Mountain Sanctuary offers stunning views of the Appalachian Mountains and is renowned for birdwatching, particularly during fall migrations. The sanctuary is a photographer's delight but can get busy during peak seasons. Enjoy hiking and catching sight of migratory raptors in this protected area.
★ 7⌖ 31.05 milesExplore the serene Sunfish Pond in Hardwick Township, NJ. Hiking and nature watching are popular, with the Appalachian Trail offering scenic views. Ideal for picnics and birdwatching, this quiet spot is best visited in spring or fall.
★ 8.2⌖ 38.91 milesBushkill Falls offers a scenic escape with over 2 miles of hiking trails and 8 stunning waterfalls. The trails provide various views and photo opportunities, perfect for nature lovers. Enjoy activities like fishing and paddle boating. Best visited in spring or fall.
★ 7⌖ 40.74 milesExplore Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area in Bushkill, PA. Enjoy hiking the Appalachian Trail, canoeing on the Delaware River, and exploring Raymondskill Falls. The area offers diverse wildlife and stunning vistas, perfect for adventure seekers and photographers.
★ 7.8⌖ 43.91 milesExplore the tranquil Susquehanna River, stretching 444 miles through PA, ideal for kayaking and fishing. Family-friendly with scenic views and wildlife spotting. Enjoy year-round adventures with moderate crowds and stunning spring and fall scenes.
Discover the top adventure activities and curated experiences in Northampton, Pennsylvania, verified by our editors to help you make the most of your trip.
Book unforgettable outdoor adventures, guided tours, and gear rentals with verified Local Experts in Northampton, Pennsylvania.
⌖ 4.0 miAn eight-hour float on the Lower Lehigh River that pairs relentless smallmouth bass and musky action with a straightforward all-ages outing—useful as a practical field guide for anglers and trip planners.
⌖ 5.8 miA guided 4- or 8-hour trout-fishing walk on the Lehigh River’s easy-to-wade 20-mile fishery, useful for anglers planning around peak hatches and targeted fly choices.
⌖ 6.3 miA short, immersive flight in a restored WWII P‑51 fighter—offered as 20- or 40‑minute experiences—this guide explains what to expect and who can go.
⌖ 6.6 miA 30-minute, one-on-one feeding and painting encounter with the zoo’s male Masai giraffes that includes a keeper chat and a take-home canvas—this guide lays out the logistics, rules, and what to expect.
⌖ 7.0 miGeneral daytime admission to the Lehigh Valley Zoo in Schnecksville’s Trexler Nature Preserve lets visitors of all ages explore 29 acres and more than 325 animal ambassadors; this guide focuses on ticketing, timing, and practical on‑site details.
⌖ 7.0 miTokens are the zoo’s exclusive currency for activities, crafts, interactive exhibits and select animal feedings—pick them up at check-in; they never expire and are non-refundable.
⌖ 7.0 miRent heavy-duty, 4‑wheel ECVs at the Lehigh Valley Zoo — reserve in advance, present a valid ID at check-in, and sign a waiver before use.
⌖ 7.0 miPurchase a Nature Store Gift Card before your visit to receive an extra $5 in merchandise credit and learn what the card covers and where it won’t apply.
⌖ 7.0 miA year-long pass granting unlimited daytime admission, member discounts, and the satisfaction of supporting Lehigh Valley Zoo’s conservation work; this guide clarifies redemption, benefits, and contact points.
⌖ 7.0 miA 30-minute, pre-opening, one-on-one experience where participants assist keepers, place enrichment, feed North American river otters, and take home an otter-made painting.
⌖ 7.0 miA limited, ticketed opportunity in Schnecksville to hand-feed the zoo’s 10‑year‑old Masai giraffes—this guide explains what to expect, when sessions run, and how the visit supports giraffe research.
⌖ 7.5 miA hands-on PADI Advanced Open Water Diver course that builds skills across five instructor-led adventure dives—ideal for certified divers wanting to expand depth and technique.
⌖ 7.6 miA hands-on demo run by Scuba Shack Divers in Bethlehem that lets certified divers feel industry-leading diver propulsion vehicles in the water and compare performance before they buy.
⌖ 7.6 miA focused, two‑day course that teaches divers how to anticipate and manage underwater emergencies, useful for anyone looking to improve safety skills or advance toward dive leadership.
⌖ 7.6 miA two-day PADI Rescue Diver course with a pool session and an open-water dive that teaches emergency response, navigation, and emergency-oxygen use—this guide explains what’s included, prerequisites, and how to book.
Make the most of your visit to Northampton, Pennsylvania with these essential planning tips, seasonal events, and protected lands.
Northampton, Pennsylvania hosts celebrated events throughout the year showcasing the region's culture, outdoor lifestyle, and community spirit.
Experience the vibrancy and unique outdoor heritage of Northampton, Pennsylvania during the iconic Lehigh River Sojourn Paddle Festival. Plan accommodations and permits early.
Experience the vibrancy and unique outdoor heritage of Northampton, Pennsylvania during the iconic Northampton Riverfest. Plan accommodations and permits early.
Experience the vibrancy and unique outdoor heritage of Northampton, Pennsylvania during the iconic Lehigh Valley Outdoor Expo. Plan accommodations and permits early.
Northampton, Pennsylvania is surrounded by incredible protected natural lands offering pristine trails, wildlife habitats, and wilderness conservation.
Hickory Run State Park is a sprawling state park located in the western foothills of the Pocono Mountains. Known for its unique Boulder Field, this park offers diverse recreational activities in a scenic setting.
Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area offers a stunning blend of natural beauty and diverse outdoor activities along the Middle Delaware National Scenic and Recreational River.
Brandywine Creek State Park offers a rich tapestry of rolling meadows and rich forested areas, perfect for a wide range of outdoor activities including hiking and birdwatching.
Ricketts Glen State Park is a premier destination in Pennsylvania, famous for its stunning waterfalls and diverse natural beauty, attracting hikers and nature lovers year-round.
Check water levels before paddling on the Lehigh River for safe conditions.
Wear insect repellent during warmer months when hiking and camping.
Visit local outfitters in Northampton for gear rentals and guided tours.
Parking can be limited at trailheads on weekends; arrive early.
Seasonal closures may apply for some trails and parks during winter months.
Always check local regulations, fire restrictions, trail conditions, and weather forecasts before setting out on any adventure in Northampton, Pennsylvania. Respect nature, wildlife, and fellow adventurers by following Leave No Trace principles.