Explore Nature with These 10 Easy Hikes
Outdoor adventures are even more fun when you can bring the whole family. In the Endless Mountains of Northeastern Pennsylvania, we have plenty of trails that are easy enough for kids, yet still offer rewarding views. From stroller-friendly rail trails to adventurous waterfall treks, these ten trails will delight kids and parents alike.
Please keep in mind, the difficulty of the trail will depend on your child’s age, experience, and abilities. Call the park office or trail manager to determine whether a trail is the right choice for your family.
Double Run Nature Trail
Location: Worlds End State Park & Loyalsock State Forest
Distance: 1.2-mile loop
The Double Run Nature Trail captures the stunning scenery of Sullivan County, but without the tough climbs and rugged terrain that are typical of the region. The trail starts on PA-154 at Worlds End State Park and follows the creek into the Loyalsock State Forest. Kids will love playing along the stream and crossing the footbridges. The trail leads to Cottonwood Falls, a small but scenic waterfall surrounded by lush woodlands and a peaceful pool.
Eagles Mere Conservancy Nature Trail
Location: Conservancy Cabin (located off Route 42 near the Outlet Pond)
Distance: 0.75 miles
The Eagles Mere Conservancy Cabin is a starting point for several trails, including the short, year-round Nature Trail. This path combines creativity, nature, and education with plenty of fun stops along the way.
Evergreen Trail
Location: Ricketts Glen State Park
Distance: 1-mile loop
The Evergreen Trail provides a great alternative for families who want to enjoy Ricketts Glen’s waterfall views but aren’t quite ready to tackle the steep, slippery terrain of the famous Falls Trail. The trail is located just across the road from the Glens Lot Trailhead on Route 118. Just a short walk into the hike, and you’ll quickly be rewarded with views of Adams Falls, a 36-foot-tall waterfall that carves through a rocky gorge. The rest of the loop includes views of the old-growth forest and educational signage geared toward kids.
Hemlock Trail
Location: Salt Springs State Park
Distance: 0.4-mile one-way
Salt Springs State Park near Montrose is home to magnificent old-growth hemlock forests, where the trees are estimated to be over 300 years old. Take a stroll among these ancient giants along the Hemlock Trail. You’ll encounter a bit of steep climbing before reaching a boardwalk through the forest. Make sure to stop at Penny Rock, where visitors have hammered pennies into the layers of a massive boulder for good luck. Hemlock Trail can be an out-and-back hike, or connect to the Hardwood Trail or Fall Book Trail for a longer adventure.
Iroquois Trail
Location: Sunnyside Road, Tunkhannock
Distance: 1.8 miles one-way (if starting from Bob Massaker Sports Complex), 1 mile one-way (if starting from Sunnyside Road parking lot)
The Iroquois Trail is located just outside of downtown Tunkhannock, making it perfect for a leisurely walk. Built along the old Lehigh Valley Railroad line, this out-and-back trail is generally flat and gentle as it leads you through the forest. The fine gravel surface is ideal for strollers.
Little Rocky Glen Preserve
Location: Lithia Valley Road, Factoryville (0.3 miles off Route 6)
Distance: 0.5 miles one-way
Little Rocky Glen is a beautiful preserve owned by Countryside Conservancy. A short trail weaves through the woods and borders a stunning gorge. Although the trail is short, it’s better suited for school-aged children because of the tall cliffs and exposed edges. At the end of the trail, you’ll find a peaceful meadow and pavilion that’s perfect for a creekside picnic. Please note, swimming is not allowed at Little Rocky Glen.
Nokomis Forest Stewardship Trail
Location: Keystone College Woodlands Campus
Distance: 1.2-mile loop
Keystone College offers seven miles of hiking trails that are open to the public. The Nokomis Forest Stewardship Trail is full of kid-approved adventures. Park near the library and cross the giant suspension bridge (even adults have to admit, it’s really cool). The trail enters the forest, follows part of the Countryside Conservancy Trolley Trail, and loops around the athletic fields. A portion of the trail borders the South Branch of Tunkhannock Creek—perfect for searching for fish, frogs, and other critters.
River & Canal Trail Loop
Location: Vosburg Neck State Park
Distance: About 1.2 miles round-trip
Vosburg Neck is home to several easy-to-moderate trails that kids will love to explore. Many families opt to make a loop with the River and Canal Trails, which are both generally flat. Both trails begin at the day use area by the boat launch. River Trail will lead you along the banks, which is a popular place to see bald eagles. Take a short rest overlooking the water before turning back on Canal Trail, which follows remnants of the old North Branch Canal.
Summit Loop Trail
Location: The Summit Center for Wellness
Distance: 1-mile loop
Located just outside of Laporte, the Summit Loop is a gentle walking trail on the future campus of the Loyalsock Foundation’s Summit Center for Wellness. Woodchips and earthen paths make for a moderate walk through the woods. There are plenty of benches to stop and rest along the way.
Trolley Trail
Location: Factoryville/La Plume
Distance: 1.7 miles one way
Another stroller-friendly option is the Countryside Conservancy’s Trolley Trail, which runs through Factoryville borough and behind the Keystone College campus. The trail follows the old Northern Electric Trolley line. It is generally smooth and flat with a fine gravel and dirt surface. Trailhead parking is available on Riverside Drive across from the Factoryville Masonic Temple and at the Whitney Chamberlin Memorial Trailhead above the football field at Keystone College. There are also two other segments of this trail: a 0.7-mile stretch from La Plume to Dalton and a 2.8-mile portion from Clarks Summit to Dalton.
Find More Outdoor Adventures
There’s so much more to explore in the Endless Mountains of Northeastern Pennsylvania! For more fun in the great outdoors, download the Endless Mountains Outdoor Recreation Guide or request a free copy via mail.