Austin T. Blakeslee Natural Area
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Austin T. Blakeslee Natural Area

4.7
·867 reviews·Blakeslee, United States

Discover serene pine forests, a picturesque waterfall, and scenic trails along Tobyhanna Creek.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring mornings

Lush greenery, flowing water

CrowdLow
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Austin T. Blakeslee Natural Area

Austin T. Blakeslee Natural Area

Best Time

Spring mornings

Lush greenery, flowing water

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover serene pine forests, a picturesque waterfall, and scenic trails along Tobyhanna Creek.

4.7
(867 reviews)

"A beautiful park with a pretty hike through pine trees along the creek to the rocky shoreline of the waterfall!"

Vertical photo
TIP

Check the Bridge Status

The bridge to the waterfall is often out. Be prepared for a scramble or check recent updates .

Wear Sturdy Footwear

Trails can be steep and uneven; good hiking shoes are a must for safety and comfort :athletic_shoe:.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Tobyhanna Creek Waterfall

Tobyhanna Creek Waterfall

Main trail

A picturesque cascade flowing over rocky shores, offering a serene natural spectacle.

Pine Forest Trails

Pine Forest Trails

Various paths

Wander through tranquil pine forests, enjoying the fresh air and scenic beauty.

Rocky Shoreline

Rocky Shoreline

Along Tobyhanna Creek

Explore the creek's edge, perfect for rock scrambling and enjoying the water's flow.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Key for the Waterfall

The bridge to the main waterfall is often out, requiring a scramble down and up embankments. Check recent visitor posts for updates on its status before you go. Early mornings offer peaceful hikes before crowds arrive.Instagram+1

Trail Conditions & Safety

While generally scenic, some trails can be steep or have uneven terrain. Be aware of potential hazards like shattered glass or wildlife warnings.Reddit Proper footwear is essential for navigating the natural landscape.Instagram

Best Times

When
Spring mornings
Why
Lush greenery, flowing water
Crowd
Low
When
Fall afternoons
Why
Vibrant leaf colors
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Peaceful, fewer visitors
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Blakeslee, PA : Day 128 from LA-NY.
@bearsun
4.8K likes • 56K views

Check the Bridge Status

The bridge to the waterfall is often out. Be prepared for a scramble or check recent updates.Reddit

Wear Sturdy Footwear

Trails can be steep and uneven; good hiking shoes are a must for safety and comfort :athletic_shoe:.

Austin T Blakeslee Natural Area
___e__d__u__a__r__d___
0 likes • 191 views
The Austin T. Blakeslee Natural Area is a 130-acre preserve nestled along Tobyhanna Creek. Located right off of Route 115, the nature preserve has several hiking trails, a waterfall, and picnic areas. 🍃 #DiscoverNEPA
discovernepa
101 likes • 3.5K views

Watch for Glass & Wildlife

Be mindful of shattered glass on some paths and potential wildlife encounters.Reddit

Arrive Early for Parking

Parking can be tricky, especially on weekends. Arrive early to secure a spot.Reddit

Austin T. Blakeslee Natural Area ________________ #nature #naturephotography #hiking #austintblakesleenaturalarea #winter #waterfall #river #closeup #discovernepa #poconos #blakeslee #pennsylvania
jeremiah.dowling
13 likes • 181 views

Tips

from all over the internet

Check the Bridge Status

The bridge to the waterfall is often out. Be prepared for a scramble or check recent updates.Reddit

Wear Sturdy Footwear

Trails can be steep and uneven; good hiking shoes are a must for safety and comfort :athletic_shoe:.

Watch for Glass & Wildlife

Be mindful of shattered glass on some paths and potential wildlife encounters.Reddit

Arrive Early for Parking

Parking can be tricky, especially on weekends. Arrive early to secure a spot.Reddit

Bring Water & Snacks

Stay hydrated and energized on your hike through this beautiful natural area.

What Travellers Say

4.7
(867 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the Austin T. Blakeslee Natural Area for its beautiful scenery, particularly the waterfall and pine forests, making it a great spot for hiking and photography. However, the frequent disrepair of the bridge to the waterfall can make access challenging, and some trails may have safety concerns like shattered glass.

"What a beautiful park! Pretty hike thru the pine trees, along the creek to the rocky shoreline of the waterfall! Gorgeous area with the fall leaf colors. Water was slightly low but was great for rock scrambling. I will def be returning in the spring."

Frugal Livin'

"Went with a large group and enjoyed the experience as a novice hiker. Some areas were steep and there was a missing bridge, but we saw many young children on the trail, so it’s definitely doable. Lots of scenic areas to explore, and the breeze felt nice.

One of the beginning paths contained shattered glass. We had dogs with us and had to lift them over, but the pieces could be hard to see. We went in the early afternoon, and parking was tricky. We essentially created our own spots in a corner. Someone warned of a snake in the area at left-most trail when first entering the acre from the parking lot."

Luo Ying Lin

"Nice walk, but the bridge is out that takes you to the waterfall. Wish there would have been a sign at the beginning. I see from previous reviews that there was one at one time but not during our visit. The scramble down and up the embankment is doable for some but we had some older folks so we decided to turn around."

Kayla Rockhold

What People Like

Beautiful waterfall and creek
Scenic pine forests
Peaceful hiking trails

What People Dislike

Bridge to waterfall often out
Trail hazards (glass)
Parking can be difficult

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Austin T. Blakeslee Natural Area is conveniently located right off of Route 115 in Blakeslee, Pennsylvania.Instagram It's easily accessible by car, making it a popular spot for day trips from surrounding areas. Parking is available on-site, though it can fill up quickly on busy days.Reddit

Public transportation options to the Austin T. Blakeslee Natural Area are limited. It is best accessed by private vehicle. Consider ride-sharing services if you are traveling without a car, but confirm availability in the area.

From major highways, take Route 115 towards Blakeslee, PA. The entrance to the natural area is clearly marked. Use GPS navigation for precise directions from your starting point.

Yes, the natural area is well-signposted from Route 115, making it straightforward to locate. Many visitors use GPS or map applications to guide them directly to the entrance.TikTok

The natural area is situated near Blakeslee, PA, and is part of the larger Pocono Mountains region. Major nearby cities include Scranton and Wilkes-Barre.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, the Austin T. Blakeslee Natural Area is free to enter and explore. This makes it an accessible destination for all visitors looking to enjoy nature.Instagram

The natural area is generally open from dawn until dusk. It's recommended to check local listings or park advisories for any specific seasonal hours or closures.

No advance booking is required as there is no entrance fee. You can visit anytime during operating hours.

Standard park rules apply, such as staying on marked trails and not littering. Dogs are allowed but must be leashed. Be aware of any posted warnings or advisories.

Yes, the natural area is beautiful year-round. Each season offers a unique experience, from spring blooms to winter snowscapes.Instagram+1

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

The area offers several hiking trails that wind through pine forests and along Tobyhanna Creek. While specific trail names aren't always prominent, visitors often follow the path towards the waterfall.Instagram+1 Some trails can be steep, and a bridge to the main waterfall is frequently out, requiring a scramble.Reddit

The main waterfall is a highlight, but access can be challenging as the bridge is often out. Visitors may need to navigate a steep embankment, which can be difficult for some.Reddit A rope is sometimes available to assist with the climb.Reddit

Yes, the natural area provides picnic areas, making it a great spot for a leisurely outdoor meal amidst nature.Instagram Remember to pack out all your trash.

Many visitors report seeing young children on the trails, suggesting it's doable for families. However, be mindful of the steep sections and potential hazards like shattered glass.Reddit

Visitors have reported seeing black bears on the trails.Reddit It's always wise to be aware of your surroundings and maintain a safe distance from any wildlife.

📸 📸 Photography

The waterfall and the rocky shoreline of Tobyhanna Creek are prime photography locations.Instagram+2 The pine forests also offer beautiful, serene shots, especially during different seasons.Instagram+2

While drone usage might be permitted in some areas, it's always best to check local regulations and park policies before flying. Some creators have captured cinematic drone footage.Instagram

Early mornings and late afternoons often provide the best natural light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and creating a softer glow.Instagram

Absolutely! The natural beauty, waterfalls, and forests provide a stunning backdrop for cinematic and nature videography.Instagram

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive forest and waterfall scenes. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife spotting. A tripod can help with low-light conditions or capturing water flow.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Austin T. Blakeslee Natural Area can be a fun outing for families, with many reporting seeing young children on the trails.Reddit The natural beauty and the adventure of reaching the waterfall (even with the bridge out) can be exciting for kids. However, parents should be prepared for steep sections and the need for a scramble if the bridge is down.Reddit It's crucial to ensure children wear appropriate footwear and to keep a close eye on them, especially near the water and on uneven terrain. The picnic areas offer a great spot for a family break.

🚶‍♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts

For those who love to hike and immerse themselves in nature, the Austin T. Blakeslee Natural Area offers a rewarding experience. The trails wind through beautiful pine forests, providing a peaceful escape.Instagram+1 The highlight for many is the waterfall, and the challenge of reaching it when the bridge is out adds an element of adventure.Reddit Be sure to wear sturdy hiking boots and be prepared for varied terrain. The opportunity to spot wildlife, like the reported black bear sightings,Reddit adds to the allure for nature lovers.

📸 Photographers and Videographers

This natural area is a dream for photographers and videographers, offering diverse and stunning scenery. The waterfall, the rocky creek, and the dense pine forests provide endless opportunities for capturing breathtaking shots.Instagram+2 Creators have utilized drone footage to showcase the cinematic beauty of the landscape.Instagram The changing seasons, from vibrant fall colors to serene winter scenes, offer unique photographic potential throughout the year.Instagram+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating the Trails and Waterfall

The Austin T. Blakeslee Natural Area offers a network of trails that are generally well-maintained, though some can be steep and challenging. The main draw for many visitors is the waterfall along Tobyhanna Creek.Instagram However, a common point of frustration is that the bridge providing direct access to the waterfall is frequently out of service.Reddit When this happens, visitors must navigate a scramble down and up the embankment to reach the falls, with some noting the availability of a rope to assist.Reddit This makes the waterfall experience more adventurous but potentially inaccessible for those with mobility issues or young children.Reddit Despite these challenges, the scenic beauty of the creek and surrounding pine forests makes the hike worthwhile for many.Instagram+1

Wildlife and Safety Considerations

While exploring the natural area, visitors should be aware of potential wildlife encounters. One reviewer mentioned seeing a black bear on the trail, emphasizing the importance of being vigilant and maintaining a safe distance.Reddit Additionally, there have been reports of hazards on the trails, such as shattered glass on some paths, which can be particularly concerning for visitors with dogs.Reddit It's always recommended to wear sturdy footwear to navigate the uneven terrain and to be aware of your surroundings. Following park guidelines and staying on marked trails will help ensure a safe and enjoyable visit.

Seasonal Beauty and Photography Opportunities

The Austin T. Blakeslee Natural Area is a picturesque destination throughout the year, offering unique beauty in every season. Fall foliage transforms the landscape into a vibrant spectacle, making it a popular time for visitors.Instagram Winter hikes provide a serene, quiet experience with potential for snow-covered scenery.Instagram+1 The area is also a haven for photographers, with the waterfall, rocky creek beds, and dense pine forests providing stunning subjects.Instagram+1 Early mornings and late afternoons are ideal for capturing the best light, creating a magical atmosphere for both casual snapshots and professional shoots.Instagram

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