If you’re looking for the kind of road trip where you can hike through the woods and eat pie by the lake all in the same day—Lake Wallenpaupack is your spot.
This northeast Pennsylvania gem has everything: scenic drives, chill beach vibes, small-town charm, and more photo-worthy stops than your camera roll can handle.
Whether you’re into boats, blueberries, or just finding the best iced coffee with a view, this trip’s packed with fun, easy stops you’re gonna love—let’s map it all out!
1. Shuman Point Hiking Trail
Shuman Point Hiking Trail is a 3-mile loop tucked right along the shore of Lake Wallenpaupack in the Poconos, just off Route 590.
This shady forest trail is known for its peaceful lake views, chirping birds, and surprise benches that pop up just when your legs need a break.
You’ll pass mossy rocks and a few hidden spots where you can dip your toes in the water—perfect for a mid-hike chill session.
2. Lake Wallenpaupack Dam Overlook
Just a short drive from Shuman Point, the Lake Wallenpaupack Dam Overlook gives you front-row seats to one of the coolest views in the area.
You’ll be looking straight at the massive dam that holds back 5,700 acres of water, with wide-open views of the lake stretching out in the other direction.
There’s a small parking area and a paved path to the overlook, so it’s an easy, low-effort stop with seriously high reward—perfect for just soaking it all in.
3. Antique Shopping in Hawley
Once you’ve had your nature fix, cruise into the cute little town of Hawley for some seriously fun antique shopping.
Church Street is packed with cool shops like Miss Elly’s Antiques & Such and Penny Lane Candies & Candles, where you can dig through everything from vintage textiles and pottery to nostalgic candies and a variety of handmade candles.
It’s part treasure hunt, part trip down memory lane, and 100% a good excuse to pick up something weird and wonderful for your shelf back home.
Please note that Penny Lane Candies & Candles typically closes over the winter and usually reopens in May.
4. Hawley Silk Mill
Right around the corner from the antique shops, the Hawley Silk Mill is a must-stop spot for anyone that loves history.
This massive stone building was once a working silk factory, but now it’s home to a coffee shop, art gallery, fitness center, and some fun little boutiques all under one roof.
Grab a latte at Cocoon Coffee House, wander through paintings by local artists, and pretend you’re living your best artsy small-town life.
5. Palmyra Township Public Beach
When you’re ready to swap sneakers for flip-flops, head over to Palmyra Township Public Beach for some lakefront chill time.
This sandy beach on Lake Wallenpaupack has lifeguards in the summer, shady picnic spots, and calm water that’s perfect for floating, swimming, or just wading in.
It’s a great place to stretch out with a snack, watch the boats cruise by, and soak up that laid-back lake day vibe before hitting the road again.
Palmyra Township Public Beach typically opens from late May to early September—so be sure to check online before planning your visit.
6. Rubber Duckie Boat Rental
Once you’ve had your toes in the sand, it’s time to get out on the water with a boat rental from Rubber Duckie.
This family-run spot just a few minutes from the beach rents everything from pontoon boats to ski boats, so you can cruise, fish, or zoom around like a total lake boss.
They’ll get you set up with life jackets, maps, and tips—even if you’ve never driven a boat before—so all you have to worry about is which snack to pack for your adventure.
Just a heads-up, Rubber Duckie Boat Rentals is typically closed during the winter and usually reopens from May through mid-October.
7. The Dock on Wallenpaupack
After a day on the water, swing by The Dock on Wallenpaupack for dinner with a view that seriously delivers.
This lakefront restaurant at Silver Birches Resort serves up burgers and seafood, all with tables overlooking the water and boats bobbing nearby.
During the summer months, you’ll typically catch live music on weekends on the deck—an experience that makes the waterfront setting even better.
8. Wallenpaupack Historical Society
Next, swing by the Wallenpaupack Historical Society for a quick time-travel moment.
It’s located in the old Williams House and is packed with cool stuff like vintage maps and old photos showing everything from farming equipment to the construction of the Wallenpaupack Dam to past generations of families.
It’s a small stop, but if you’re into local stories and fun facts (like how the lake was actually man-made in the 1920s!), this place totally delivers.
9. Paupack Blueberry Farm
If you’re rolling through in summer, don’t miss Paupack Blueberry Farm—it’s the sweetest stop on the whole trip, literally.
This family-run farm lets you pick your own blueberries straight off the bush, and trust me, they taste way better than the store-bought kind.
They’ve also got a little farm stand with homemade jams, fresh-baked pies, and maybe even blueberry ice cream if you time it right.
Just a heads-up! The farm store opens in mid-June, and pick-your-own blueberries start in mid-July. The season wraps up in early September—so be sure to check online before visiting.
10. Promised Land State Park
When you’re ready to trade the lake crowds for some deep-woods exploring, Promised Land State Park is calling your name.
It’s about 20 minutes from Lake Wallenpaupack and has over 50 miles of hiking trails, plus two lakes of its own if you’re still not tired of water.
Keep an eye out for bald eagles, pack a picnic, and don’t skip the Little Falls Trail—it’s short, shady, and ends with a tiny waterfall that’s totally worth the walk.
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