The best walks and hikes in Merli-Sarnoski County Park

The Boneyard and Squeezeplay Loop in Carbondale, Pennsylvania, offers a distinctive hiking experience on a singletrack path. This easy 3.4-mile (5.5 km) route, with 558 feet (170 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 1 hour and 38 minutes to complete. You'll find varied terrain that keeps the walk engaging, making it a good choice for those who enjoy a dynamic trail surface and a blend of outdoor activities.

To plan your visit, focus on the Carbondale, Pennsylvania, area where the Boneyard Multi Trail is located. While specific parking information isn't readily available, local maps or online resources can help pinpoint trailhead access. It's always a good idea to bring water and wear comfortable shoes, especially since the trail is multi-use and can have diverse conditions.

This trail's name is quite unique, as "Boneyard" and "Squeezeplay" often refer to distinct features or activities, with "Squeezeplay" frequently associated with rock climbing or canyoneering in other regions. In Carbondale, however, the Boneyard Multi Trail provides a local interpretation, offering a combined experience for hikers and other outdoor enthusiasts in Lackawanna County.

The Aylesworth Creek Lake Loop is a delightful, easy stroll through varied landscapes, perfect for a quick nature fix. You'll enjoy serene views of the four-acre Aylesworth Creek Lake, pass by the notable Hosie Dam, and meander through peaceful forested areas and open meadows. It's a short, accessible path that offers a refreshing escape into the diverse ecosystem of Lackawanna County.

This family-friendly route is located within Aylesworth Park, which means you'll find ample parking and amenities like picnic areas and a beach. The trail is well-maintained and clearly marked, making navigation simple. With a distance of just 0.7 miles (1.2 km) and a minimal 36 feet (11 metres) of elevation gain, you can complete this hike in about 18 minutes, making it ideal for a spontaneous outing or a gentle warm-up.

Aylesworth Park itself is a popular spot, offering more than just hiking; you can also enjoy fishing in the trout-stocked lake or relax at the beach. The park's continuous upgrades ensure a pleasant experience, and this loop is just one of many trails available within the 252-acre park. It's a great option for beginners or anyone looking for a low-impact way to enjoy the outdoors.

The Archbald Pothole Loop offers a fascinating journey through a unique natural landmark and local history. As you hike, you'll follow an old coal mine tram road, winding through dense forest and past rock ledges. The star attraction is the Archbald Pothole, a colossal glacial formation that you can view from an observation deck, making this short trail a memorable experience for its geological significance.

This easy 1.1-mile (1.7 km) hiking loop involves a gentle 71 feet (22 metres) of elevation gain, taking approximately 26 minutes to complete. It's an ideal choice for families or anyone looking for an accessible trail with a high reward. Parking is readily available at Archbald Pothole State Park, and the trail is well-maintained, making it a hassle-free outing any time of year.

What truly sets this trail apart is the Archbald Pothole itself, one of the largest glacial potholes in the world. Formed thousands of years ago by swirling meltwater beneath glaciers, it was famously discovered by a coal miner in 1884. The route's path along a former tram road also subtly highlights the area's rich industrial past, blending natural wonder with historical context.

Imagine hiking through a tapestry of Pennsylvania's landscapes on the D&H Rail-Trail, a route that winds through dense forests, past tranquil farmlands, and into the dramatic Endless Mountains. You'll follow the historic Delaware and Hudson Railroad path, crossing the Lackawanna River multiple times in the south and passing the impressive Starrucca Viaduct further north. This difficult 45.1 miles (72.6 km) trail involves 1234 feet (376 metres) of elevation gain and typically takes around 18 hours and 50 minutes to complete, offering a diverse journey for those up for the challenge.

Accessing the D&H Rail-Trail is straightforward, with numerous trailheads like those near Simpson, Forest City, and Uniondale allowing you to tackle sections or the entire length. Be prepared for varied terrain; while some parts are smooth crushed stone, others are rougher ballast and dirt, especially north of Ararat. Autumn brings spectacular fall foliage, making it a prime time to visit, but the trail is open for year-round enjoyment, including winter activities.

Beyond its natural beauty, the D&H Rail-Trail is steeped in history, tracing a 19th-century rail line with interpretive markers and even an original railroad station in Thompson. It's not just for hikers; the multi-use path is also popular for biking, running, and horseback riding, connecting to other regional trails like the Lackawanna River Heritage Trail for extended adventures.