Pedals on the Rails: Electric Rail Biking the Lackawaxen in Hawley

All Ages • Tour is 10 miles long with a few mild elevation changes, approx 2 hours

Hawley, Pennsylvania•By Robert Eric Crews•Land Adventures,Wildlife Nature•September•fall

The Lackawaxen River glides alongside the rails like a quiet companion, silvering in the morning light as if it knows where you’re headed. You clip your seatbelt, settle into the rail bike, and feel the gentle thrum of the electric pedal assist rising to meet your first turn of the crank. Ahead, the track unfurls through a green corridor east of the Hawley Train Depot—old steel invited into new play. The river keeps pace, the trees nod you forward, and the Poconos let out a slow, approving breath. This is the Feel the Power Tour, a 10-mile rail biking route that stitches nature, history, and hydropower into a two-hour glide through Pennsylvania’s quiet corners.

DurationApproximately 2 hours

Trail Wisdom

Seatbelts & Shoes

Wear closed-toe shoes and keep your seatbelt fastened at all times—both are required and make the ride smoother.

Use Assist Strategically

Save battery for gentle climbs and headwinds; pedal manually on flats to enjoy a quieter ride and longer range.

Wildlife Etiquette

Observe eagles and deer from a distance and keep voices low, especially near the nest overlook.

Pack Light, Pack Smart

Bring water, a small snack, and a light shell; the river corridor can be cooler and breezy even on warm days.

Local Knowledge

Hidden Gems

Eagle’s nest viewpoint—watch quietly from a respectful distance
South Hawley Railroad Yard relics along the early stretch

Wildlife

Bald Eagle, White-tailed Deer

Conservation Note

Keep a 330–660 ft buffer from active eagle nests, pack out all trash, and avoid loud noises that may disturb wildlife along the river corridor.

Lake Wallenpaupack was created in 1926 to generate hydroelectric power and stabilize downstream flow; Hawley’s rails once moved timber and goods along this same corridor.

Seasonal Guide

spring

Best for:Cool temperatures, High-flow river views

Challenges:Mud on approaches, Early mosquitoes

Fresh foliage and energetic river levels make for lively scenery; carry a light layer and insect repellent.

summer

Best for:Family outings, Long daylight windows

Challenges:Heat and sun exposure, Pop-up thunderstorms

Expect warm rides with lush greenery; start early or late for cooler temps and bring extra water.

fall

Best for:Peak foliage, Crisp riding conditions

Challenges:Cool mornings, Leaf litter can be slick when damp

Golden canopies and stable weather deliver standout rides—ideal for photography and wildlife spotting.

winter

Best for:Quiet trails, Crisp air and clear views

Challenges:Cold temps, Possible ice and limited departures

Layer up, wear warm gloves, and confirm seasonal operations before booking.

Photographer's Notes

Bring a polarizing filter to tame glare off the Lackawaxen and deepen fall colors. A 70–200mm lens is ideal for eagle portraits at a distance, while a 24–70mm captures bikes, rails, and river context. Shoot early or late for side light on the track, and stabilize your camera against the rail bike frame when stopped—never while rolling.

What to Bring

Closed-Toe Athletic Shoes

Essential

Required for safety and to keep your footing secure on and off the rail bike.

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Lightweight Rain Shell

Spring showers and river breezes roll in fast; a packable shell keeps you dry and comfortable.

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Binoculars (8x or 10x)

Handy for viewing the eagle’s nest and spotting deer across the river corridor.

Insect Repellent

Essential

Mosquitoes can be active along the river; a small spray bottle makes a big difference.

Common Questions

What to Pack

Closed-toe athletic shoes for grip and safety; a lightweight shell for wind and surprise showers; a full water bottle to stay hydrated over 10 miles; binoculars to spot the eagle’s nest and river wildlife.

Did You Know

Lake Wallenpaupack is a 13-mile-long reservoir with about 52 miles of shoreline, completed in 1926 to produce hydroelectric power and support regional water management.

Quick Travel Tips

Arrive 20 minutes early to adjust your rail bike and review safety. Bring insect repellent in spring and early summer. Book fall departures early—foliage season is popular. Plan a post-ride meal or drink in Hawley to round out the day.

Local Flavor

Refuel at The Settlers Inn for farm-to-table fare or grab a pint at Wallenpaupack Brewing Company, which pairs local beers with river-town vibes. For coffee and a quick bite, Cocoon Coffeehouse at the Hawley Silk Mill makes a smooth pre- or post-ride stop.

Logistics Snapshot

Closest airportWilkes-Barre

Scranton International (AVP), ~45 miles. TrailheadHawley Train Depot, 4 Columbus Ave. Driving: 2 minutes from Hawley center; 25 minutes from Honesdale; 1 hour from Scranton. Cell service: Generally good in town; may drop in river pockets. Permits: None required; closed-toe shoes and seatbelts are mandatory; 300-lb per-seat weight limit.

Sustainability Note

You’re traveling a low-impact corridor where rails meet riparian habitat—pack out all trash, minimize noise near wildlife, and give active nests a wide berth. Respect private property along the right-of-way and stay on the rail bikes at all times.

Topics

Rail Biking Poconos Hawley Lake Wallenpaupack Lackawaxen River Family Friendly Electric Assist Wildlife Watching Historic Railroads Fall Colors Pennsylvania Hydroelectric Power