Attractions and Places To See around Nanticoke - Top 12
Best attractions and places to see around Nanticoke offer a blend of historical sites, natural beauty, and outdoor recreation. The region's coal mining heritage is reflected in several landmarks, while its proximity to the Susquehanna River and state forests provides ample opportunities for exploration. Visitors can discover unique historical locations and diverse natural attractions, making it a varied destination.
Best attractions and places to see around Nanticoke
- The most popular attractions is Moon Lake State Forest Recreation Area, a mountain biking park that features multi-use trails and a spring-fed lake. It is known for its singletrack trails maintained by the local Moon Lake Trail Crew.
- Another must-see spot is Mocanaqua Tract — Pinchot State Forest, a trail area located on a bend of the Susquehanna River. Visitors can explore miles of trails for hiking, biking, and climbing year-round, traversing old mine areas.
- Visitors also love Market Street Bridge, a historic bridge connecting Wilkes-Barre and Kingston over the Susquehanna River. This magnificent structure, built in the early 1900s, features massive pylons topped with eagle statues honoring World War I veterans.
- Nanticoke is known for its historical sites, natural attractions, and outdoor recreation areas. The region offers a variety of experiences, from exploring abandoned historical structures to enjoying trails along the river and within state forests.
- The attractions around Nanticoke are appreciated by the komoot community, with 3 upvotes and 5 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 15, 2026
Moon Lake State Forest Recreation Area
Highlight • MTB Park
Tip by
Moon Lake
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Market Street Bridge
Highlight • Bridge
On each side of the bridge are massive pylons topped with eagle statues weighing 5,500 pounds—heavier than a fully grown rhinoceros. These four statues pay tribute to the fallen veterans of World War I. It offers a spectacular backdrop, worthy of stopping to capture some memorable photos.
Tip by
Mocanaqua Tract — Pinchot State Forest
Highlight • Trail
Tip by
Concrete City
Highlight • Historical Site
In the decades that followed nearby fire and police departments have used the site for training. Graffiti writers and artists have left their mark all over, and more recently paintball and airsoft tournaments have been held here.
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around Nanticoke.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Nanticoke
Tips from the Community
Moon Lake State Forest Natural Area is a beautiful outdoor playground for nature lovers. The multi-use trails are a hotspot for mountain biking, with plenty of trails for hiking. There is a beautiful lake teeming with trout in the park's center, several campgrounds, and open fields with lots of wildflowers. It's a fantastic location, offering something for everyone.
0
0
Located on a bend of the Susquehanna River and traversing a number of old mines, the Mocanaqua Tract is a unique place to visit. Some areas feel untouched by human hands, while other bear striking scars of such contact. Today its miles of trails provide access for hikers, bikers, and climbers to explore the area year round.
0
0
This magnificent bridge, built in the early 1900s, spans 1,400 feet across the Susquehanna River, connecting the communities of Wilkes-Barre and Kingston via East Market Street. It provides access to Kirby Park, the west side neighborhoods, and the Luzerne County Levee Trail, making it one of the county's most popular locations for walking, jogging, and sightseeing. On each side of the bridge are massive pylons topped with eagle statues weighing 5,500 pounds—heavier than a fully grown rhinoceros. These four statues pay tribute to the fallen veterans of World War I. It offers a spectacular backdrop, worthy of stopping to capture some memorable photos.
0
0
Concrete City was built as employee housing in 1911 and abandoned just 13 years later in 1924. The 20 duplexes were made entirely of concrete and hence incredibly durable. Unfortunately they were also very drafty, cold, and held too much moisture be be long term dwellings. In the decades that followed nearby fire and police departments have used the site for training. Graffiti writers and artists have left their mark all over, and more recently paintball and airsoft tournaments have been held here.
0
0
Moon Lake State Forest Natural Area is a great little MTB spot in Luzerne County. While you won't find any epic downhills you will have some great singletrack maintained by the local Moon Lake Trail Crew. They've done a great job setting up some fun routes over the relatively flat terrain. And while there's nothing too technical you will find enough rough & rocky sections to keep you on your toes.
0
0
Moon Lake is a 48-acre, spring fed lake in the middle of a state forest. This brings all kinds of outdoor enthusiasts to its shores throughout the year. The lake itself is popular for fishing and kayaking, while the surrounding park brings in hikers, mountain bikers, and campers.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of outdoor activities can I do around Nanticoke?
Nanticoke and its surrounding areas offer a variety of outdoor activities. You can enjoy mountain biking and hiking at the Moon Lake State Forest Recreation Area, which features multi-use trails and a spring-fed lake. The Mocanaqua Tract — Pinchot State Forest provides miles of trails for hiking, biking, and climbing. For river activities, the Susquehanna Warrior Trail is excellent for walking, jogging, and biking along the Susquehanna River, and Canal Park offers access for kayaking, canoeing, and fishing.
Are there good hiking trails near Nanticoke?
Yes, there are several excellent hiking opportunities. The Mocanaqua Tract — Pinchot State Forest offers miles of trails, some traversing old mine areas. You can also find trails at Moon Lake State Forest Recreation Area. For a scenic riverside walk, consider the Susquehanna Warrior Trail. Additionally, nearby Frances Slocum State Park and Seven Tubs Nature Area provide more hiking options.
Where can I go mountain biking in the Nanticoke area?
The primary spot for mountain biking is the Moon Lake State Forest Recreation Area. It's known for its multi-use trails, including fun singletracks maintained by the local Moon Lake Trail Crew. The Mocanaqua Tract — Pinchot State Forest also has trails suitable for biking. For more detailed routes, you can explore the MTB Trails around Nanticoke guide.
What historical sites can I visit in Nanticoke?
Nanticoke has a rich history, particularly its coal mining heritage. You can visit Concrete City, an abandoned 'garden village' built for coal workers, which is a unique site for history and photography enthusiasts. The Greater Nanticoke Area Historical Society preserves local history and mining heritage, and Miner's Memorial Park offers a place for reflection. The Market Street Bridge, connecting Wilkes-Barre and Kingston, is another historic landmark with impressive architecture.
Are there any unique historical landmarks in the area?
Absolutely. Concrete City stands out as a unique abandoned 'garden village' built entirely of concrete in 1911, offering a haunting glimpse into the past. The Market Street Bridge, with its massive pylons and eagle statues honoring World War I veterans, is another significant historical landmark nearby.
Can I go fishing or kayaking near Nanticoke?
Yes, Moon Lake is a 48-acre spring-fed lake popular for fishing and kayaking. Canal Park in West Nanticoke also provides peaceful access to the Susquehanna River, ideal for kayaking, canoeing, or fishing.
Are there any state parks close to Nanticoke?
Yes, the Moon Lake State Forest Recreation Area is a prominent state forest area offering various activities. Additionally, Frances Slocum State Park and the Mocanaqua Tract within Pinchot State Forest are also nearby, providing extensive outdoor recreation opportunities.
Are there family-friendly attractions or activities in Nanticoke?
Many outdoor areas around Nanticoke are family-friendly. The Moon Lake State Forest Recreation Area is suitable for families, offering trails and a lake. The Susquehanna Warrior Trail is also great for family walks or bike rides. For indoor activities, the Mill Memorial Library hosts various events, including children's story time.
Are there any dog-friendly outdoor areas around Nanticoke?
Many of the trails and outdoor spaces in the region are dog-friendly, provided pets are kept on a leash and owners clean up after them. This includes areas like the Moon Lake State Forest Recreation Area, the Susquehanna Warrior Trail, and the Mocanaqua Tract — Pinchot State Forest.
What is the best time of year to visit Nanticoke for outdoor activities?
The spring, summer, and fall months generally offer the best weather for outdoor activities in Nanticoke. Spring brings wildflowers, summer is ideal for water activities, and fall provides beautiful foliage for hiking and biking. While some trails are accessible year-round, winter conditions can vary, making certain activities more challenging.
Are there any scenic viewpoints around Nanticoke?
The Market Street Bridge offers a spectacular backdrop and views of the Susquehanna River. The Mocanaqua Tract — Pinchot State Forest, situated on a bend of the Susquehanna River, also provides scenic views along its trails.
Where can I learn about Nanticoke's coal mining history?
Nanticoke's coal mining heritage is a significant part of its past. You can explore Concrete City, which was built to house coal workers. The Greater Nanticoke Area Historical Society is dedicated to preserving this history through records, photographs, and artifacts, and Miner's Memorial Park honors the area's mining past.
Most popular routes around Nanticoke
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions:
