If you love pretty lakes, quiet trails, and snack breaks with a view, you’re gonna want to keep reading.
This road trip winds through the Poconos and hits all the best spots for swimming, paddling, hiking, and just straight-up chilling by the water.
We’re talking secret coves, beachy stops, mountaintop lakes, and even a surprise or two you’d never expect in the middle of the woods.
Get ready to cruise through one of the most beautiful (and underrated) lake-filled corners of Pennsylvania.
1. Lake Wallenpaupack
Lake Wallenpaupack is a huge, 13-mile-long lake in northeastern Pennsylvania, right between Pike and Wayne counties, and it’s one of the biggest lakes in the state.
It’s popular for boating, jet skiing, and sunset cruises, and come summer, people flock to the beach, fish off the docks, or rent kayaks from the marinas.
Fun fact: It was man-made in 1926 to help power a hydroelectric plant, and now it’s packed with public access spots, hiking trails, and ice fishing in the winter.
2. Promised Land Lake
Heading south, don’t skip Promised Land Lake which sits in Promised Land State Park, perched over 1,800 feet up on the Pocono Plateau.
This one’s way more chill than Wallenpaupack, with quiet coves for paddling, peaceful picnic spots, and two sandy beaches perfect for a peaceful swim.
Keep an eye out for bald eagles and hike the nearby Conservation Island Trail which loops right through the woods and gives you dreamy lake views the whole way.
3. Gouldsboro Lake
Next up is Gouldsboro Lake, just a short drive south and totally worth the detour if you’re into peaceful forests and wide-open water.
It’s part of Gouldsboro State Park, and since gas-powered boats aren’t permitted, that’s exactly what makes it great for kayaking, canoeing, or simply floating in silence.
There are also plenty of trails around the lake which are ideal if you’re up for a shady hike with incredible views (especially in fall when the leaves go fire mode).
4. Tobyhanna Lake
Just a few minutes down the road, Tobyhanna Lake is your go-to if you want a mix of chill and adventure in one spot.
This lake is in the middle of Tobyhanna State Park and has a big flat beach, easy boat rentals, and a calm shoreline that’s great for paddleboarding or skipping rocks.
If you’re into longer hikes, the Lakeside Trail circles the water for 5.1 miles and gives you lovely views of wetlands, forests, and maybe even a sneaky wildlife sighting.
5. Bradys Lake
Now, if you’re looking for a lake that feels like a secret spot, Bradys Lake is it—no crowds, no noise, just you and the wild.
This lake is located inside a massive, undeveloped natural area, so bring your own kayak, pack some snacks, and get ready to unplug.
There’s no beach here, but that’s what makes it special.
Instead, it’s just raw nature, perfect for paddling through lily pads, spotting deer, and soaking up the silence.
6. Lake Harmony
After all that peaceful wilderness, Lake Harmony is full of energy and a whole lot of fun.
It’s a private lake with a resort-town feel, where you’ll find restaurants right along the water, boat rentals, and jet skis.
This spot is all about summer fun so stay overnight at Split Rock Resort, catch a lakeside sunset, and wrap it all up with pizza or ice cream just steps from the shore.
7. Sand Spring Lake
To wind things down with something super laid-back, Sand Spring Lake in Hickory Run State Park is all about family-friendly enjoyment.
The lake has a big sandy beach with shallow water that’s awesome for swimming, building sandcastles, or just lounging under the trees.
There’s also a snack bar nearby, picnic tables, and trails like the scenic Shades of Death Trail (cool name, right?), just a short walk away if you’re up for a mini adventure.
8. Mauch Chunk Lake
Last but definitely not least, Mauch Chunk Lake brings a little mountain-town magic to your lake-hopping adventure.
It’s just outside Jim Thorpe and has a cozy beach, relaxing waters, and paddleboat rentals that are as fun as they sound.
After you swim or kayak, you can hop over to town for some vintage shops, coal mine tours, or a charming ride on the Lehigh Gorge train.
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