Lake Ariel: Nature Trails, Wildlife, and Hotels

Lake Ariel offers several reasons to spend time outdoors: the hiking trails at Lacawac, wildlife watching, activities on the water, and seasonal programs. When choosing a hotel, it can be helpful to first decide what you want to focus on during your stay. The offerings also differ in the type of visit: private tours at Safari Farm require an appointment in advance, while Varden Conservation Area offers public programs during a seasonal period.

Nature Trails and Outdoor Programs

At Lacawac, a network of more than 12 miles of trails and set daily visiting hours are important points to keep in mind. The trails are open daily from sunrise to sunset. Check the latest official access information before your visit. If hiking is to be a focus of your trip, you can plan Lacawac as a separate activity.

Another way to spend time outdoors is to attend the public programs at Varden Conservation Area. They take place from April through October and include guided outdoor recreation, hands-on activities, environmental education, and special events for all ages. The seasonal offerings combine guided activities with educational content and events. If you are especially interested in environmental education or hands-on activities, you can take this period into account when planning your trip.

Wildlife and Activities on the Water

At Claws ’N’ Paws Wild Animal Park, visitors can discover more than 120 rare and exotic animal species in the Pocono Mountains. The park is an outdoor attraction with shaded woodland trails. This puts wildlife watching and woodland trails at the heart of two specific aspects of the same visit. For travelers interested in the wildlife of the Pocono Mountains, the diversity of species is a particular highlight.

Wake in the Woods has an inflatable water park for guests ages six and up. Admission to the water park also includes swimming and fishing in the lake without a fishing license after your session. So the experience includes more than just time at the water park: both activities after the session are also part of the offering described. If you plan to visit, check the operator’s latest information.

Tours, Field Trips, and Local Products

Safari Farm’s private tours are by appointment only. Be sure to check availability with the operator before your visit. Safari Farm also offers educational programs and field trips, both at Safari Farm and at the locations where they are held. For these programs, it may be helpful to make current arrangements with the operator. The tours and programs are different offerings: appointments are required for tours, while field trips can also take place at other locations.

Kim & Andrew’s Farm Market in Lake Ariel offers fresh produce and homemade goods. The market complements the nature and wildlife experiences with a specific connection to local products. Together with trails, programs, and activities on the water, this offers a range of different interests to shape your stay around.

Lake Ariel’s Resort Heritage

Lake Ariel’s history is also connected with leisure activities. Along with boating and fishing, Lake Ariel Park drew thousands of people to the Township of Lake. This former appeal is part of the region’s resort heritage. The historical perspective adds another dimension to today’s offerings: leisure and stays were closely linked to the park and activities on the water in the past, too.

Whether trails, wildlife watching, seasonal events, or activities on the lake are what appeal to you most, Lake Ariel offers several distinct themes to guide your trip planning.

Discover more destinations: Wayne, Newfoundland, Gouldsboro, Honesdale, Lake Como, Starlight, Beach Lake, Hawley.

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