The Pennsylvania Environmental Council is partnering with DiscoverNEPA on a series highlighting some of the region’s best outdoor adventure destinations. This post was originally published March 6 on the DiscoverNEPA blog.
To “have a backbone” is an idiom for strength, and the phrase is a logical one. Our spine links vital systems, provides stability, and allows for movement, all of which strengthen the human body. Similarly, PEC uses the nickname “the spine” to describe Northeastern Pennsylvania’s evolving and expanding network of trails that connect communities, landscapes, and outdoor enthusiasts. This “spine” strengthens the region by fostering conservation, recreation, and economic growth —all of which provide stability and contribute to the well-being of people and places.
This network of trails runs from the New York border to Philadelphia, forming a corridor for outdoor recreation and transportation. This includes major trails like the D&H Rail Trail, the Lackawanna River Heritage Trail, the D&L Trail, the Luzerne County Levee Trail and others that link together, creating opportunities for hiking, biking, and other outdoor activities. These trails weave through NEPA’s forests, river valleys, and historic towns, supporting regional connectivity, conservation, and even economic development.
Tied to Pennsylvania History
Managed by the Rail-Trail Council of Northeastern Pennsylvania, the D&H Rail Trail follows the historic Delaware & Hudson Railroad corridor, stretching from the New York border down to Simpson in the Lackawanna Valley. This scenic, multi-use trail winds through forests and farmlands, offering breathtaking views and an immersive outdoor experience.
Connecting Communities
The Lackawanna River Heritage Trail (LRHT) , overseen by the Lackawanna Heritage Valley National and State Heritage Area, runs parallel to the Lackawanna River and extends through multiple communities, from Carbondale to Scranton to, most recently, Duryea. This trail serves as a vital recreational and commuter route and intersects with several local parks and green spaces, further expanding recreational access.
Scenery Abounds
The D&L Trail is a significant long-distance trail managed by the Delaware & Lehigh National Heritage Corridor. Stretching over 165 miles from Wilkes-Barre to Bristol, it follows the historic path of coal and iron transport. Throughout this route, you’ll find remnants of canals, breathtaking river views, and rail corridors. This trail is not only a key piece of NEPA’s trail network but also a major tourism and economic driver, drawing cyclists, hikers, and history enthusiasts from across the region.
The proposed terminus of the D&L Trail is Wilkes-Barre, and trail segments are slowly approaching the city limits.
Here, several other trails either currently connect to or are planned to link into this backbone, further strengthening regional trail access. The Susquehanna Warrior Trail follows the west bank of the Susquehanna River from West Nanticoke to Berwick, providing scenic riverfront access. The Back Mountain Trail, managed by the Anthracite Scenic Trails Association, which currently runs from Shavertown to Luzerne with a planned Edwardsville Connector, offers a tranquil, wooded escape while serving as an important local connector. The Greater Hazleton Rails to Trails, still expanding, will enhance connectivity for residents in southern Luzerne County, providing additional recreational opportunities and links to the broader trail network.
With trails connected and communities engaged, NEPA’s future isn’t just on the map—it’s an adventure waiting to happen!
*Many of these trails have incomplete sections, road connections, or current construction. Visit their respective websites for the latest maps and information.