The best walks and hikes around Crandon Lakes

Yes, the area offers several easier options suitable for families with children. The Lower Hornbecks Creek to Lower Indian Ladders Falls hike is a gentle 2.3-mile (3.7 km) walk. Another great choice is the Paulinskill Valley Trail, a flat, 27-mile former railway line perfect for a leisurely stroll. You can find a good section of it on the Paulinskill Valley Trail — Stillwater Township route.

Most trails in the state forests and national recreation areas near Crandon Lakes are dog-friendly, provided your dog is on a leash. Parks like Tourne Park are known to be welcoming to pets. However, regulations can vary, so it's always best to check the specific rules for the park you plan to visit before you go.

Definitely. The Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area is particularly known for its waterfalls. A popular route is the Buttermilk Falls to Appalachian Trail hike, which features a steep climb alongside one of the state's tallest waterfalls. For a more accessible option, the boardwalk trail to Dingmans Falls is also a great choice.

The region has many excellent loop trails. For a scenic walk around two beautiful bodies of water, consider the Crater Lake and Hemlock Pond loop. It's a relatively easy 3.3-mile (5.3 km) circuit. For something more challenging, the Tower Trail loop in Stokes State Forest offers a 6.6-mile (10.6 km) moderate hike with rewarding views.

There are nearly 30 curated hiking routes available around Crandon Lakes, ranging from easy walks to difficult mountain climbs. This network covers the diverse terrain of nearby state forests and the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area.

The trails around Crandon Lakes are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars. Hikers often praise the region's scenic variety, from the challenging climbs in the Delaware Water Gap to the peaceful, well-maintained paths in the state forests.

Crandon Lakes is a private residential community, and access to trails within its boundaries is generally reserved for residents and their guests. The premier hiking opportunities are located in the public parks and forests just a short drive away, such as Stokes State Forest and the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area.

Stokes State Forest has multiple parking areas that serve as trailheads for its extensive trail network. Popular spots include the parking lot for Sunrise Mountain and the designated areas near Stony Lake and Tillman Ravine. It's a good idea to arrive early on weekends, as these lots can fill up.

Yes, winter hiking is a great way to experience the area's beauty. Many trails in Stokes State Forest and the flatter sections of the Paulinskill Valley Trail are suitable for winter hiking, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing. Always check weather conditions and ensure you have appropriate gear for ice and snow.

A significant section of the Appalachian Trail (A.T.) runs through the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area and Stokes State Forest. A common access point is at the top of Buttermilk Falls, where the Buttermilk Falls Trail connects with the A.T. You can also access it from various points within Stokes State Forest.

For some of the best views in the region, head to Sunrise Mountain in Stokes State Forest. The summit offers panoramic vistas of the Kittatinny Valley. Another iconic, though more strenuous, hike is the Red Dot Trail to the summit of Mount Tammany, which provides postcard-worthy views of the Delaware Water Gap.