The Ultimate Lake Wallenpaupack Road Trip Itinerary

The Ultimate Lake Wallenpaupack Road Trip Itinerary

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 going to love.

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.

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 where you can dig through everything from vintage textiles and pottery to nostalgic candies and handmade candles. It's part treasure hunt, part trip down memory lane.

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 fun little boutiques all under one roof. Grab a latte at Cocoon Coffee House and wander through paintings by local artists.

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 typically opens from late May to early September.

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 rents everything from pontoon boats to ski boats, so you can cruise, fish, or zoom around the lake. They'll get you set up with life jackets, maps, and tips — even if you've never driven a boat before. Rubber Duckie typically operates 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. During summer, you'll typically catch live music on weekends on the deck.

8. Wallenpaupack Historical Society

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. Fun fact: the lake was actually man-made in the 1920s.

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. This family-run farm lets you pick your own blueberries straight off the bush. They've also got a farm stand with homemade jams, fresh-baked pies, and maybe even blueberry ice cream. The farm store opens in mid-June, and pick-your-own blueberries start in mid-July through early September.

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. Keep an eye out for bald eagles, pack a picnic, and don't skip the Little Falls Trail — it ends with a tiny waterfall that's totally worth the walk.

Why Lake Wallenpaupack Matters for Lehigh Valley Homeowners and Investors

Lake Wallenpaupack is not just a day trip. It is one of the most popular lake communities in northeastern Pennsylvania, and it sits within easy driving distance of the Lehigh Valley. For homeowners who want a weekend getaway, a vacation rental, or a second home, this area offers real opportunities.

Properties near Lake Wallenpaupack include single-family homes, cabins, condos, and investment-ready short-term rentals. The lake draws visitors year-round — boating and fishing in summer, leaf-peeping in fall, and ice fishing in winter. That year-round appeal makes it a strong market for both personal use and rental income.

If you have been thinking about buying a lake property, selling a property near Wallenpaupack, or exploring vacation rental investment in the Poconos, I can help. I know the Lehigh Valley and the surrounding lake communities, and I bring more than 36 years of real estate experience to every conversation.