Scranton offers outdoor lovers access to hiking, mountain biking, and paddling with the convenience of an urban hub. Nearby parks and forests provide year-round adventure, from spring hikes to winter skiing.
Scranton offers outdoor lovers access to hiking, mountain biking, and paddling with the convenience of an urban hub. Nearby parks and forests provide year-round adventure, from spring hikes to winter skiing.
Outdoor Adventures in Scranton, Pennsylvania
Scranton serves as a convenient base for outdoor enthusiasts exploring northeastern Pennsylvania. With forests, rivers, and hills nearby, it offers varied activities across all seasons.
Discover the unique natural wonders, summits, and scenic landmarks that make Scranton, Pennsylvania special.
★ 7.8⌖ 21.28 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.
★ 9.2⌖ 28.56 milesExtremeExperience the majestic peaks of Mount Ararat in eastern Turkey. At over 5,100 meters, this difficult climb is best attempted from June to September. Ideal for climbers and photographers, enjoy breathtaking views and explore the legendary site linked to Noah's Ark.
★ 8.8⌖ 31.25 milesHardExplore Ricketts Glen State Park in Benton, PA. The park's Falls Trail is a challenging 7.2-mile loop with 21 waterfalls. Ideal for hiking, nature walks, and bird watching. Best visited in fall for stunning foliage, sturdy footwear recommended.
★ 4.5⌖ 31.63 milesLocated in Honesdale, PA, Summit Camp & Travel boasts lakefront views and easy access to hiking trails. Perfect for kayaking and fishing, this family-friendly spot offers a serene escape in the Pocono Mountains, best visited in spring and fall.
★ 8.5⌖ 36.35 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.
★ 8.2⌖ 39.53 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⌖ 41.73 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.
★ 7⌖ 43.02 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.
★ 8.2⌖ 45.13 milesModerateExplore the Milford Knob Trailhead near Milford, PA, known for its panoramic views of the Delaware River and moderate hiking difficulty. It's a great spot for photographers and nature lovers. Ideal seasons for visiting are spring and fall.
★ 7.2⌖ 46.14 milesExplore winter hiking at Blue Hills Reservation near Boston. With various trails suited for all skill levels, enjoy scenic views, peaceful walks, and a family-friendly environment. Pack traction aids for icy trails.
Discover the top adventure activities and curated experiences in Scranton, 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 Scranton, Pennsylvania.
⌖ 7.7 miA four-hour, 9-mile half-day paddle from Whites Ferry to Appletree with rentals included and a riverside pit stop at the Appletree House.
⌖ 8.3 miA guided 5‑mile kayak or canoe outing (three hours) with equipment, orientation, and shuttle service—this guide explains what to expect and how to plan.
⌖ 9.1 miA guided 4-mile paddle with Susquehanna Kayak & Canoe Rentals that includes quality boats, life jackets, expert orientation and a shuttle—ideal for a short, managed river outing.
⌖ 10.0 miA 2-hour on-site rental for ages 4+ that lets you choose gravel, mountain or children’s bikes to explore lakeside paved paths or off‑road trails.
⌖ 10.0 miA one-hour rental of gravel, mountain, or children's bikes from the Lackawanna State Park rental station — this guide explains what to expect, what to bring, and how the short ride flows.
⌖ 10.0 miA two‑hour guided evening paddle on Lackawanna Lake followed by a lakeside bonfire — this guide explains what to expect, what to bring, and the booking essentials.
⌖ 10.0 miA guided, 2-hour lake paddle followed by two slices and a drink at Gin’s Tavern — this guide lays out logistics, what to bring, and essential rules so you can book and arrive ready.
⌖ 10.5 miA guided, on-water evening that pairs a scenic 1.5-mile paddle to a one-hour outdoor performance by the Northeast Philharmonic with a tranquil 1.5-mile return — a compact, 4-hour round-trip experience for paddlers of all levels.
⌖ 10.5 miA guided autumn paddle on the North Branch of the Susquehanna that finishes at Susquehanna Brewing Company with Oktoberfest food, live music and a welcome beer — this guide explains what’s included and how the day unfolds.
⌖ 10.5 miA commemorative kayak and canoe outing in West Falls: choose a 4- or 5-mile route, all gear supplied, and free passage for eligible service members.
⌖ 10.5 miA Pirates of the Caribbean–themed kayak and canoe regatta on Aug 8 — a 2-hour, 4-mile paddle beginning at White's Ferry with a 9:30 AM shop meeting and shuttle; this guide explains the route, logistics, and festival connection.
⌖ 10.6 miA focused, instructor‑led 1.5‑hour session at Frances Slocum Lake that teaches basic paddling, ends with a $5 snack‑bar coupon, and runs Thursdays at 9:30 a.m.—useful for parents planning a drop‑off morning with optional pool time afterward.
⌖ 12.4 miA four-hour boat rental (single and tandem kayaks, canoes, pedal boats) with paddles and life jackets provided lets anglers and nature lovers explore the park’s lake at their own pace.
⌖ 13.3 miA two-hour rental of single and tandem kayaks, canoes, or pedal boats at Frances Slocum State Park with all safety gear included—perfect for families and small groups who want time to explore coves and photograph wildlife.
⌖ 14.0 miFour-hour rentals of single and tandem kayaks, canoes and pedal boats with paddles, life jackets and safety gear provided — a relaxed, scenic half-day on the water.
Make the most of your visit to Scranton, Pennsylvania with these essential planning tips, seasonal events, and protected lands.
Scranton, 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 Scranton, Pennsylvania during the iconic Scranton Riverfest. Plan accommodations and permits early.
Experience the vibrancy and unique outdoor heritage of Scranton, Pennsylvania during the iconic Lackawanna State Park Trail Runs. Plan accommodations and permits early.
Experience the vibrancy and unique outdoor heritage of Scranton, Pennsylvania during the iconic Winter Snowshoe Events at Elk Mountain. Plan accommodations and permits early.
Scranton, 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.
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.
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.
High Point State Park offers stunning panoramic views from New Jersey's highest elevation point, with abundant outdoor recreation opportunities throughout the year.
Pack layers, as weather can shift quickly in the hills.
Bring insect repellent during warmer months for forest hikes.
Check river conditions before paddling, especially after rain.
Reserve ski resort tickets ahead in winter to avoid crowds.
Always check local regulations, fire restrictions, trail conditions, and weather forecasts before setting out on any adventure in Scranton, Pennsylvania. Respect nature, wildlife, and fellow adventurers by following Leave No Trace principles.