Lehigh River Gorge Region

(Carbon County)

If you long for a taste of Europe without the eight-hour flight, head towards the Lehigh River Gorge Region. The region's recreation and exploration options are as plentiful as the anthracite coal that has shaped the area's history since its discovery in 1791. This discovery laid the groundwork for the region's development as a coal producer, a railroad center and a land of opportunity for many immigrants from the British Isles and the Slavic nations of Europe.

Today, the region offers clear lakes, wide-open countryside and rugged mountains, perfect for year-round, outdoor activity.

Winter visitors can find pleasure in skiing, snowboarding, snowtubing and snowmobiling. During spring and summer, visitors enjoy whitewater rafting, hiking, picnicking, swimming, fishing and especially biking the uninterrupted 25-mile trail that travels downhill from White Haven to Jim Thorpe along the Lehigh River. In the fall, three state parks and two recreation areas provide prime fall foliage viewing. In particular, the 4,548-acre Lehigh Gorge State Park is well known as a deep gorge with steep walls, thick vegetation, rock outcroppings and many waterfalls.

In the heart of the Lehigh River Gorge Region lies picturesque Jim Thorpe (formerly known as Mauch Chunk), which offers historic sites, museums, unique shopping boutiques, antiquing, dining and more. The Lehigh River Gorge Region is the perfect destination for the avid historian or recreation seeker and is known best for its history, fabulous views and recreational activities.