Imagine the sound of songbirds echoing through a cathedral of trees, the scent of pine drifting on a cool mountain breeze, and the rhythmic crunch of earth beneath your hiking boots. This isn’t just a daydream at Skytop Lodge in the Pocono Mountains, it’s your next unforgettable escape.
With over 5,500 acres of natural wonder, Skytop offers guests unparalleled access to some of the most scenic and accessible hiking and walking trails in Pennsylvania. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker, a casual stroller, or somewhere in between, these forest walks and waterfall trails await you.
Skytop’s diverse trail network spans over 30 miles, open to resort guests and Skytop homeowners, and is divided into easy, moderate, and strenuous options, making it ideal for solo adventurers, romantic couples’ getaways, and family-friendly outings alike.
This path travels along the shoreline of Skytop Lake and offers an ideal trail walk for guests of all ages. Perfect for a morning coffee stroll or sunset walk, the Lake Trail surrounds you with stunning views of the water, birdsong, and fresh mountain air. With 42 interpretative plaques showcasing the trees, shrubs, geology, and ecology, there is so much to learn and see on this trail.
Looking for that storybook forest experience? Follow the gentle babble of a stream through shaded woodland until you arrive at the picturesque 3-level Indian Ladder Falls. The hike is a delight in every season—lush and green in the summer, vibrantly golden in the fall.
This 4-mile loop brings you through towering forests and up to the Gazebo at 1,900 feet elevation. It’s a great workout with an even greater reward: sweeping views of the Delaware Water Gap and Skytop’s lakeside grandeur.
Descending into the lush ravine known as Devil’s Hole, this trail offers a serene atmosphere with its white ash canopy and rushing falls. The beautiful Leavitt Falls can be seen from both above and below, but hikers should take caution due to the rugged terrain. It is recommended not to attempt in wet or icy conditions.
For experienced hikers or those looking for a challenge, the Stable Trail is a short but steep climb with a big payoff. Ascend 400 feet in half a mile and find yourself above the treetops, where you can see Camelback Mountain on the horizon.
Even though Skytop offers enough trails to fill your weekend itinerary, several other iconic Pocono spots are within a scenic drive.
A must-see for waterfall chasers, Bushkill Falls is about 30 miles from Skytop. Here, a network of wooden walkways and forested trails leads to eight roaring waterfalls. With trails ranging from easy to challenging, you can create your own adventure based on your mood and stamina.
A favorite for families and nature lovers, the Lake Wallenpaupack Trail provides a leisurely, out-and-back trail along one of Pennsylvania’s largest man-made lakes. Bring a picnic, watch the boats cruise by, or enjoy birdwatching along the water’s edge. Nearby, the Wallenpaupack Creek Trail is shorter but rich with natural beauty and wildlife.
If you’re planning your hiking trip, here are a few helpful tips to ensure you get the most out of your Skytop adventure:
After your hike, the comforts of Skytop Lodge await. Sip a local wine or seasonal cocktail at Lakeview, or head to The Taproom for hearty fare in a cozy setting. The views from your dinner table are just as spectacular as those from the trail—only now, you’ve earned that extra dessert. Need help choosing the perfect wine after a long day of exploring? Skytop has a variety of options to elevate your dining experience.
What makes Skytop Lodge stand out isn’t just the trail access, it’s the sense of place. The moment you arrive, the stress of everyday life melts away. Historic architecture, cozy accommodations, and warm hospitality surround you like an old friend. And whether you’re returning from an easy walk or a strenuous hike, you’re always just steps away from a hot shower, a relaxing environment, and a roaring fireplace.
Families will love the variety of trails, educational nature walks, and year-round activities. Couples can sneak away for romantic woodland strolls at waterfall viewpoints. And solo travelers will find peace, quiet, and inspiration on every trail.
Skytop Lodge isn’t just a place to stay, it’s a destination for discovery. From forest walks and lakeside paths to challenging climbs and nearby attractions like Bushkill Falls and Lake Wallenpaupack, this is the Pocono Mountains at their finest.
So lace up your boots, take a deep breath of fresh mountain air, and let the trails lead you somewhere unforgettable. And when the sun dips below the trees, there’s no better place to rest than the timeless charm and comfort of Skytop Lodge.
Book your hiking getaway at Skytop Lodge and discover trails that will stay with you long after your boots are off.