Hickory Run State Park

Hickory Run State Park spreads across the western Poconos near White Haven and offers some of the most distinctive natural scenery in Pennsylvania. Its best known feature is Boulder Field, a National Natural Landmark where a vast area of boulders lies in a treeless expanse as though a giant had spilled them. The rocks were left behind by the freeze and thaw cycles of the last ice age, and they are so densely packed that you can walk or scramble across them, with the sound of water running beneath. The effect is otherworldly, and photographers love the way it looks under clouds or low sun. Beyond Boulder Field, the park holds a network of hiking trails, a swimming area, camping and cabins, and Hickory Run Falls, a pretty cascade that is easy to reach. The terrain varies from hemlock ravines to open meadows and former farmland. Anglers fish in the streams, and in winter the park offers cross-country skiing and sledding when snow allows. The park is large enough to fill a day, and it is much less crowded than the better known waterfalls on weekdays, which adds to its charm.

Visiting Boulder Field requires only a short walk from the parking area, but the rocks themselves demand care. Wear sturdy shoes with good tread, watch your footing, and do not try to cross the whole field if you are not confident, since a twisted ankle is a real risk. Children should be supervised closely, and there is no shade, so bring water, a hat and sun protection in summer. The field is best enjoyed by walking out a short way and staying on the edges, taking photographs and enjoying the scale.

The park lies near the Lehigh Gorge, so it combines easily with Jim Thorpe and the railway. A suggested plan is a morning at Boulder Field and Hickory Run Falls, then lunch and a walk in Jim Thorpe in the afternoon. The park is also a good option if you want a quiet camping or cabin stay, since it is far from the busy resort areas. Check the Pennsylvania state parks site for current facilities, camping reservations and any seasonal closures, as some areas close for maintenance or in bad weather.

Seasonal variety is rich. Spring brings wildflowers and strong stream flow, summer draws swimmers and campers, autumn paints the forest in color, and winter can bring snow and a hushed atmosphere. Boulder Field takes on a different mood in each season, with ice and snow adding hazards in winter. Hunting seasons apply in parts of the park, so wear bright clothing during those periods and check the dates in advance. Dogs on leash are generally allowed, but check the rules for particular areas.

Think about combining the park with a night in a cabin or campsite if you want to see the field at dawn. Early light on the rocks is spectacular, and the quiet before the day-trippers arrive is a real pleasure. Bring a headlamp for the walk in, and let someone know your plan, because cell coverage can drop out in the woods.

Facilities are basic, with restrooms and picnic areas near the main sites, and food must be brought in or purchased in nearby towns. Cell coverage can be poor, so download maps and plan your route before you arrive. For travelers who like geology and unusual landscapes, Hickory Run is a rewarding stop that offers a counterpoint to the waterfalls and resorts that dominate the Poconos itinerary.