Northeast Pennsylvania’s beauty is often overshadowed by proximity to other nearby cities such as Scranton, Philadelphia, and New York City. Tunkhannock and some of the other quaint, surrounding towns have numerous opportunities for families, couples, and individuals to explore. These hidden gems which many locals favor are easy to miss if you bat an eye, but essential visits for those interested in exploring off the beaten path. From out of town and looking for a place central to each of these scenic locations? Shadowbrook Resort is a hop, skip, and a jump from each and the perfect spot to rest!
Woodbourne Forest & Wildlife Preserve
Distance from Shadowbrook: 25 minutes- Dimock, PA
Size- 648 acres, 4 loop trails ranging from 0.6 miles- 3.6 miles
This historical preserve is home to a large portion of Pennsylvania’s last standing old-growth coniferous forests. Much wildlife thrives off old-growth stands, including woodpeckers, songbirds, and owls. This preserve is acknowledged as one of Pennsylvania’s top 100 best places for birdwatching and is home to almost 200 different bird species. You may also come across a range of other animals such as salamanders, frogs, flying squirrels, beavers, otters, white-tailed deer, and wild turkeys. This is an excellent spot to seek out native plant species or search for wildflowers, mushrooms, and ferns.
Seven Tubs Nature Area
Distance from Shadowbrook: 42 minutes- Wilkes Barre, PA
Size- 400 acres, 2 loop trails ranging from 0.3 miles- 1.8 miles
This recreational area, part of the Pinchot State Forest is widely recognized for its pristine environmental upkeep and responsibility in coordination with Leave No trace. Wheelbarrow Run flows through the entire nature area, creating the “tubs” which are excellent swimming holes. While this location is primarily visited as a swimming destination, there are several great hikes to tour near and around the stream.
Salt Springs State Park
Distance from Shadowbrook: 44 minutes- Montrose, PA
Size- 405 acres + 437 acres of bordering public access, 14.8 miles of varying trails
Known for its beautiful waterfalls and well-maintained trail system, Salt Springs is fan-favorite location for its impressive views and easy accessibility. As one of few wheelchair- accessible parks in the area, there are trails for any ages to enjoy. The Gorge and Hemlock trails take you to either side of Fall Brook to view the three waterfalls. Wildlife is abundant at Salt Springs State Park, and it is not uncommon to come across an assortment of different birds and mammals in a few hours. Plant life is also extremely prolific, which makes for a beautiful hike along the streambank or exploring through the woods.
Ricketts Glenn State Park
Distance from Shadowbrook: 49 minutes- Benton, PA
Size- 13,193 acres, 26 miles of varying trails
If you’re looking for somewhere to visit that covers each of the must-do bases- Ricketts Glenn is your spot. With impressive views of waterfalls, adventurous trails great for all-season use, and fantastic swimming access, this is the perfect family-friendly spot to visit. Aside from hiking, there are great picnic areas to sit and enjoy lunch, lookouts to search for wildlife, and waterfront access to go boating on Lake Jean. For outdoorsmen who love to fish, Lake Jean offers great opportunities to catch panfish, bass, and trout.
World’s End State Park
Distance from Shadowbrook: 1 hour 5 minutes- Forksville, PA
Size- 780 acres, 20 miles of varying trails
This park certainly lives up to its name and is a spectacular spot to visit for breathtaking views of the Loyalsock State Forest. The Loyalsock Trail runs directly through the park and is approximately 60 miles long in its entirety. Stops along the way of this trail take you to hot-spot destinations including Cottonwood Falls, Dry Run Falls, Loyalsock Canyon Vista, and High Knob Overlook. Sones Pond is also a great stop to make to cast a line and try to catch a few fish. Aside from its great fishing, this is a perfect spot to sit and soak up the serene beauty of the State Forest.