Wilkes-Barre, PA offers a mix of outdoor activities from paddling the Susquehanna River to hiking and biking trails in the nearby Poconos. It’s a convenient base for seasonal adventures including fishing and winter sports.
Wilkes-Barre, PA offers a mix of outdoor activities from paddling the Susquehanna River to hiking and biking trails in the nearby Poconos. It’s a convenient base for seasonal adventures including fishing and winter sports.
Outdoor Adventure in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania
Located in northeastern Pennsylvania, Wilkes-Barre is a town rich in outdoor opportunities for nature lovers and adventure seekers. With access to river paddling, mountain trails, and winter sports, this area offers varied experiences year-round.
Discover the unique natural wonders, summits, and scenic landmarks that make Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania special.
★ 7.8⌖ 5.63 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.
★ 8.8⌖ 20.75 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.
★ 8.5⌖ 25.41 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.
★ 8.8⌖ 42.57 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.
★ 9.2⌖ 43.68 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.
★ 6.3⌖ 44.84 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.
★ 7⌖ 45.44 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⌖ 46.18 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.
★ 4.5⌖ 47.56 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.
★ 7⌖ 49.82 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.
Discover the top adventure activities and curated experiences in Wilkes-Barre, 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 Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania.
⌖ 2.9 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.
⌖ 3.1 miA weekday 90‑minute instructional kayak class for kids ages 10–12 at Frances Slocum Lake, led by local guide Art Coolbaugh and ending with a $5 snack‑bar coupon.
⌖ 3.8 miA two‑hour Wednesday evening outing at Frances Slocum State Park that pairs a one‑hour lake paddle with two slices of pizza and a drink at the Checkerboard Inn.
⌖ 5.7 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.
⌖ 6.0 miA concise guide to the one-hour boat rentals at Frances Slocum State Park — what boats and gear are available, who can go, and what to expect on the water.
⌖ 7.2 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.
⌖ 7.7 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.
⌖ 8.2 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.
⌖ 14.9 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.
⌖ 14.9 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.
⌖ 14.9 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.
⌖ 14.9 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.
⌖ 15.3 miA practical, hands-on 5–6 hour class in Lake Harmony that teaches casting, knot-tying, fly selection and water reading—gear is provided, students bring lunch and a PA fishing license.
⌖ 15.6 miCaptained tritoon rentals for groups up to 14, with lifejackets, a Bluetooth system, bimini shade and a lily pad—this guide distills what to expect and how to plan.
⌖ 18.8 miA compact two-night program of camping, staged rafting adventures and organized evening programs—this guide lays out the logistics and on-site rhythms for Girl Scouts and accompanying adults.
Make the most of your visit to Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania with these essential planning tips, seasonal events, and protected lands.
Wilkes-Barre, 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 Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania during the iconic Wilkes-Barre Riverfest. Plan accommodations and permits early.
Experience the vibrancy and unique outdoor heritage of Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania during the iconic Pocono Mountain Bike Race. Plan accommodations and permits early.
Experience the vibrancy and unique outdoor heritage of Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania during the iconic Wyoming Valley Outdoors Expo. Plan accommodations and permits early.
Wilkes-Barre, 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 for variable weather, especially near water and mountains.
Check river conditions before paddling the Susquehanna.
Book lodging early in winter near ski resorts.
Local parks offer easy access but some trails require driving outside downtown.
Visit visitor centers in the Pocono region for updated trail maps.
Always check local regulations, fire restrictions, trail conditions, and weather forecasts before setting out on any adventure in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania. Respect nature, wildlife, and fellow adventurers by following Leave No Trace principles.