The best walks and hikes around Moon Lake

Moon Lake State Forest Recreation Area offers a diverse network of over 10 hiking trails. These trails vary in length and difficulty, providing options for different skill levels and preferences.

The trails at Moon Lake traverse diverse landscapes, including dense woodlands, open fields, and wetlands. You'll find paths that are wide and smooth, as well as more technical sections with 'rock gardens.' The centerpiece is the 48-acre spring-fed Moon Lake, and many trails offer views of or access to the water.

Yes, Moon Lake has several easy trails perfect for beginners and families. For example, the Bobcat Trail loop — Starkey Wilderness Preserve is an easy 3.9-mile route that winds through varied habitats, offering opportunities for wildlife viewing. Another accessible option is the Starkey Wilderness Preserve – Starkey Park Southern Trail loop, which is 3.0 miles long.

Many of the trails at Moon Lake are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point without retracing your steps. The trail network utilizes a 'stacked-loop' system, which means you can connect different loops to customize the length and experience of your hike.

Moon Lake State Forest Recreation Area is generally dog-friendly. We recommend checking local regulations for specific leash requirements, but typically, leashed dogs are welcome on the trails, allowing your furry companion to join your outdoor adventure.

The primary natural attraction is the 48-acre spring-fed Moon Lake itself, which is surrounded by dense woodlands and open fields. The area is rich in wetlands, spring seeps, and vernal ponds, contributing to its biodiversity. You might also spot various wildlife, including deer, foxes, turkeys, and numerous bird species. Nearby, you can explore the Starkey Wilderness Preserve.

Moon Lake offers year-round hiking opportunities. The trails are enjoyable in all seasons, with vibrant foliage in autumn, lush greenery in spring and summer, and opportunities for snowshoeing and cold-weather trekking in winter. Each season provides a unique perspective on the area's natural beauty.

Yes, as a state forest recreation area, Moon Lake provides designated parking facilities for visitors accessing the trails and the lake. Specific parking areas are typically located near trailheads and main access points.

Hike durations vary depending on the trail length and your pace. For example, the Bobcat Trail loop, an easy 3.9-mile route, takes approximately 1 hour 34 minutes. A moderate option like the Starkey Park Bike Trail loop, which is 5.7 miles, typically takes around 2 hours 18 minutes.

While many trails are easy to moderate, the extensive trail system at Moon Lake includes paths with more technical sections and varied terrain, catering to those looking for a greater challenge. The 'stacked-loop' system allows hikers to combine different segments to create longer and more strenuous routes.

Moon Lake Recreation Area is a haven for wildlife. Hikers often spot deer, foxes, turkeys, and a wide variety of bird species within the dense woodlands and open fields. The wetlands and vernal ponds also support diverse amphibian and insect life.

Moon Lake State Forest Recreation Area is primarily a natural escape. While there are no cafes or pubs directly within the recreation area, you can find various dining and accommodation options in the nearby towns and communities of Luzerne County, Pennsylvania.

The trails at Moon Lake offer varying levels of accessibility. Some trails are wide and smooth, suitable for a range of fitness levels, while others are narrower and rockier, requiring good fitness and sure-footedness. The trail system is actively maintained by the Moon Lake Trail Crew to ensure a quality experience for visitors.