Hickory Run State Park, located in Carbon County, Pennsylvania, offers a diverse range of outdoor activities for nature enthusiasts. From hiking trails and waterfalls to unique geological formations, the park provides numerous opportunities for recreation and exploration. This guide will help you plan your visit by detailing the various activities available near Hickory Run State Park, including hiking, swimming, camping, and seasonal events.
What Are the Best Hiking Trails in Hickory Run State Park?
Hickory Run State Park boasts an extensive network of hiking trails suitable for various skill levels. Here are some of the most popular trails:
- Hickory Run Trail and Fireline Trail Loop
- Length: 5.8 miles
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Difficulty: Moderate
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Skyline Trail Loop
- Length: 3.4 miles
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Difficulty: Easy
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Stametz Dam Loop via Sand Spring Trail and Pine Hill Trail
- Length: 5.9 miles
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Difficulty: Moderate
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Hawk Falls Loop
- Length: 3.0 miles
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Difficulty: Easy
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Shades of Death Trail
- Length: 2.5-3 miles (out-and-back)
- Difficulty: Moderate (technical due to rocks and roots)
Notable Trail Features
- Shades of Death Trail: Known for its waterfalls and scenic beauty, especially during winter and summer when rhododendrons and mountain laurels are in bloom.
- Hawk Falls Trail: A short 0.6-mile trail leading to a 25-foot natural waterfall.
- Boulder Field Trail: Accessible by a 5-mile dirt road loop, featuring a unique landscape of giant boulders formed during the last Ice Age.
Where Can You Swim Near Hickory Run State Park?
While Hickory Run State Park itself doesn’t have designated swimming areas, nearby options include:
- Beltzville Lake: Located in Beltzville State Park, offering swimming areas. (Note: Swimming is prohibited at Hawk Falls within Hickory Run State Park)
What Outdoor Activities Are Available in Carbon County?
Carbon County, where Hickory Run State Park is located, offers a variety of outdoor activities throughout the year:
Spring and Summer Activities
- Hiking
- Picnicking
- Exploring waterfalls
- Viewing blooming mountain laurel and rhododendron (mid-June to mid-July)
Fall Activities
- Leaf peeping (peak foliage in mid-October)
- Hiking
- Cross-country skiing
- Snowshoeing
Winter Activities
- Winter hiking
- Snowshoeing
- Cross-country skiing
- Waterfall viewing
What Educational Programs Are Offered at Hickory Run State Park?
The Hickory Run State Park Visitor Center offers educational programs and exhibits focusing on:
– Natural history of the park
– Cultural history of the area
Visitors can learn about the park’s ecosystem, geology, and historical significance through these programs.
What Are the Camping Options at Hickory Run State Park?
Hickory Run State Park offers various camping options for visitors:
- Campground: Open for reservations
- Reservation Process:
- Online booking available
- Phone reservations: 888-PA-PARKS (888-727-2757)
- Hours: 7:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M., Monday to Saturday
- Facilities:
- Various camping sites available
- Some sites with electric hookups
- Visitor center serves as the main point of contact for campground check-ins
For specific site details such as size and amenities, it’s best to contact the park’s visitor center or check the official website.
Where Are the Picnic Areas in Hickory Run State Park?
Picnic areas are scattered throughout Hickory Run State Park, offering visitors scenic spots to enjoy their meals. While specific capacities are not detailed, these areas typically include:
- Picnic tables
- Benches (in some locations)
- Proximity to trailheads and scenic spots like Hawk Falls and the Boulder Field
The park is generally suitable for family picnics, though information on large group picnic areas is not specified.
By exploring these activities and amenities, visitors to Hickory Run State Park can create a memorable outdoor experience in the beautiful landscape of Carbon County, Pennsylvania.