Notes From the Road

This travel log is actually near and dear to my heart, because I get to write about the area where I grew up and now get to visit with new eyes as an adult. I grew up in northeastern Pennsylvania and this week while visiting family I was able to soak up some of the natural beauty, small town charm, and historical reflection. As I do on almost every trip home, I drove the final leg of the journey through the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area. I didn’t realize until this past trip that this area is managed by the National Park Service and is filled with hiking trails, waterfalls, scenic views, and a drive through expansive landscape. Once I reached my family’s home situated in the valley beneath the Appalachian Mountains I was ready to get out and hike myself.

Many of these towns in this area of Pennsylvania were once defined by their natural resources or industry of production. Where I grew up was no different, and slate was a primary mining material and revenue source, until it was replaced by other materials. This history is however hard to ignore as slate is everywhere, physically and in name, and in this case the Slate Heritage Trail where we hiked was no different. The walking and biking trail runs through miles of this region and you can see slate on the banks of the river, along with the blooming flowers and wildlife running freely. I have grown to appreciate the natural beauty right near home that I never took into consideration growing up.

The next day we visited a trail that I had never been to before that ended with a magnificent view of a horseshoe bend, called Tank Hallow Trail. I was surprised to see only one other person on the trail considering the view of the river we reached at the end. I would warn, however, that we did spot a black snake among the rocks and I’ve heard they are known to visit this spot. It was less than a 3-mile hike though if you are willing to brave this element and take in the breathtaking site below. That evening we stopped into the Lehighton and Palmerton area to eat dinner at P.J. Whelihan’s Pub and then grab some ice cream at the adorable Claude’s Creamery, which has an incredible patio. We didn’t visit on this trip, but I could not recommend Jim Thorpe enough to people passing through or staying in the area, also nicknamed Little Switzerland, for the views of the town tucked between the mountains, hiking trails, water sports, and a train that you can ride through the hills at various times of the year.

Day 3 we decided to do a 3rd hike, just to keep the momentum going, and this time we went to a trail near Belzville Lake. This trail named Wild Creek Falls has a number of beautiful waterfalls, bridges, and picnic spots. It is not always open on the weekends as people have been known to vandalize, but if you can catch it on a nice day I recommend stopping for a bit.

After a few wonderful days with family, I jumped in my car again and started the trip back to New England, but not before making a stop in Milford, PA. Milford is within the Delaware Water Gap area, mentioned earlier, and is this adorable town located where Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and New York all connect. At night the trees lining the street are wrapped in white lights, and during the day the historic district is a sight. Some places I’ve visited there and enjoyed were 403 Broad, Cafe Wren which is attached to a bike shop, the Milford Diner, and the Historic Dimmick Inn, which has a wraparound porch to sit and enjoy a meal. This time, however, I wanted to grab a pint at one of the local breweries so I stopped by Log Tavern Brewing Company and sat on their expansive patio overlooking a creek. If you have the chance to visit this charming little town and hike or camp in the area I highly recommend it.