Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
Merli-Sarnoski Park is a 1,085-acre state park located in Monroe County, Pennsylvania, along the Old Route 940 corridor near Blakeslee. The park preserves an ecologically rich area shaped by the last Ice Age, featuring boulder fields, glacial till ridges, and mature mixed hardwood forests. Visitors experience a variety of habitats, including riparian zones along Tobyhanna Creek and several wetlands that support diverse plant and wildlife species. The park was established in 2000 to protect its unique geological formations and biological diversity. It provides more than 8 miles of trails used for hiking, mountain biking, cross-country skiing, and nature study, with signage highlighting the natural history and glacial geology. Key features include quiet forest trails with abundant wildflowers in spring and well-maintained paths that traverse ridges offering moderate elevation changes. The park is especially valued for birdwatching, with species such as warblers, woodpeckers, and hawks regularly observed. Opportunities for solitude and nature immersion attract day visitors from nearby towns and regional outdoor enthusiasts alike. Its proximity to the Pocono Mountains adds to the diversity of recreational options, while the park’s commitment to conservation education enhances visitor appreciation of Pennsylvania’s natural heritage.
