One Tank Trip: Hickory Run State Park
photo: Hickory Run State Park
Hickory Run State Park is considered by many to be the jewel in the Pocono Mountains' crown. A gentle paradise composed of 15,990 near-pristine acres of majestic nature, the Park is located in the Poconos' westernmost foothills. Perfect for camping enthusiasts, family-fun activities and those who simply need a break from the city air, Hickory Run is a one-tank, straight-line trip away from NYC.
Getting There
Take I-80 to Exit 274 at the Hickory Run State Park Exit. Go East on PA 534 for 6 miles.
Google Maps
Hickory Run State Park
RR 1 Box 81
White Haven, PA 18661
(570) 443-0400
www.stateparks.com
What to Do
Explore Boulder Field – An ancient wonderland, Boulder Field was formed around 15,000 years ago, with the last geological ice advance. Signified as a National Natural Landmark, the Field is a fossil in landscape form. Comprised of loosely interconnected boulders ranging in size from a few inches to 25 feet, the Field is an explorer's paradise. Sturdy boots, good balance and a wild imagination are musts.
Go Hiking – Most of the Park's 44 miles of hiking trails were originally old roads, used by Pennsylvanians in the 1800s. Many of the trails are also enjoyed by snowboarders and cross-country skiers in the winter time. Seasoned hikers will enjoy the challenge of the Hawk Falls Trail, which goes downhill through an abundant rhododendron field and over a picturesque footbridge. Casual strollers will not be left behind on the Beach Trail, which leads down to the sandy shore. Over 24 trails crisscross the park, affording hikers different scenic views and destination points.
Catch Dinner – The tree-lined and lovely Hickory Run Trout Stream begins above the Park and flows for five miles through it as it makes its way down to the Lehigh River. The Stream includes a 1.6-mile catch-and-release stretch, so as to protect the trout population. Two species of trout can be found here in abundance – Wild Brown and Brook Trout.
Dining
(credit: Boulder View Tavern)
Boulder View Tavern
100 N. Lake Drive
Lake Harmony, PA 18624
(570) 722-9696
www.boulderviewtavern.com
The perfect blend of healthy and I'll-diet-tomorrow, the Tavern features unique, specialty salads like the grilled ahi tuna and summer salad, as well as decadent shouldn't-haves, like fried pickle chips with avocado ranch dressing and German pork meatballs. You'll also want to fill up on the warm artisan bread with home-made basil butter. Martinis are a specialty here and come in yummy dessert flavors like pineapple cake and banana crème pie. Try to get there for sunset.
(credit: Piggy's Restaurant)
Piggy's Restaurant
91 N. Lake Drive
Lake Harmony, PA 18624
(570) 722-8493
www.piggysrestaurant.com
If you have to make a little piggy out of yourself, this is the place to do it. Serving breakfast and lunch, Piggy's is all about using the highest quality ingredients available, creating the friendliest atmosphere possible and serving original-recipe, delicious food. The Philly steak sandwich will spoil you for life and the hog heaven ice cream is to die for, in all 22 flavors.
Corey Whelan is a freelance writer in New York. Her work can be found at Examiner.com.
