Lake Ariel, Pennsylvania: Best Things to Do – Top Picks

Scenic view of Lake Ariel, Pennsylvania with mountains in the background and a winding road leading to the lake

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Did you know that Lake Ariel is home to one of the most pristine glacial lakes in the Northern Hemisphere? While many visitors flock to nearby Lake Wallenpaupack, Lake Ariel offers a more secluded experience with crystal-clear waters that scientists have studied for decades due to their remarkable purity. This hidden gem in the Pocono Mountains region provides a perfect blend of natural beauty, outdoor recreation, and small-town charm that makes it an ideal destination for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation.

Getting There & Planning Your Journey

Lake Ariel is nestled in Wayne County, Pennsylvania, approximately 135 km (84 miles) from Philadelphia and 190 km (118 miles) from New York City. The closest major airports are:

Wilkes-Barre/Scranton International Airport (AVP) – 48 km (30 miles)
Lehigh Valley International Airport (ABE) – 96 km (60 miles)
Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) – 169 km (105 miles)

For the best flight options and prices to reach Lake Ariel, check available well in advance, especially during peak summer season when availability can be limited.

If you’re driving, Lake Ariel is accessible via Interstate 84 and Interstate 380, with State Route 191 and State Route 507 providing direct access to the lake area. Once you’ve arrived, having your own vehicle is highly recommended as attractions are spread out across the region. Consider checking if you’re flying in.

Best Time to Visit & Weather Tips

Summer scene at Lake Ariel with people enjoying water activities and sunshine

Recommended Seasons

Best Months to Visit

June to August – Peak summer season with warm temperatures ideal for swimming and water activities. Daytime temperatures average 24-29°C (75-85°F).
September to October – Fall foliage season with spectacular colors and comfortable temperatures ranging from 10-21°C (50-70°F).
May – Spring bloom with fewer crowds and pleasant temperatures around 15-21°C (60-70°F).

Seasons to Avoid

December to March – Unless you enjoy winter activities, these months bring cold temperatures between -7 to 4°C (20-40°F) and potential snow.
April – Often rainy with unpredictable weather and many attractions still closed from winter.
Holiday weekends – Extremely crowded with higher accommodation prices.

Summer weekends can be busy, so consider a mid-week visit for a more relaxed experience. If you’re planning a trip during peak season, book your at least 2-3 months in advance.

Getting Around Locally

Scenic road through forested area near Lake Ariel with a car driving through

The Lake Ariel area is best explored by car due to limited public transportation options. The rural nature of the region means attractions are spread out, making personal transportation essential for maximizing your visit.

Transportation Options

Personal/Rental Car – The most convenient option for exploring the area at your own pace.
Taxi Services – Limited but available for short trips; best arranged in advance.
Rideshare – Services like Uber and Lyft operate in the area but with limited availability.
Bicycle Rentals – Available for exploring the immediate lake area and nearby trails.

For the most flexibility during your stay, we recommend securing a rental vehicle. This allows you to easily visit nearby attractions like Promised Land State Park and the Delaware State Forest without being constrained by schedules or availability of other transportation options.

Where to Stay

Cozy lakeside cabin accommodation at Lake Ariel with deck overlooking the water

Lake Ariel offers a variety of accommodation options to suit different preferences and budgets. From lakeside cabins to family-friendly resorts, you’ll find comfortable places to rest after a day of exploration.

Lakeside Cabins

For an authentic Pocono experience, rent a cabin right on Lake Ariel’s shoreline. These accommodations offer private lake access, often with docks and boat slips. Properties like Lake Moc-A-Tek Campground and Clayton Park RV Escape offer cabin rentals with beautiful views and direct water access.

Hotels & Motels

While Lake Ariel itself has limited hotel options, nearby towns like Hawley and Honesdale offer several choices including The Hotel Belvidere, East Shore Lodging, and The Rex Hotel. These provide comfortable accommodations within a short drive of Lake Ariel’s attractions.

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Camping & RV Sites

For outdoor enthusiasts, campgrounds like Cherry Ridge Campsites and Ledgedale Recreational Area provide spaces for tents and RVs. Many offer amenities like showers, electricity, and communal fire pits, allowing you to enjoy nature without sacrificing all comforts.

Dining & Local Cuisine

Lakeside restaurant with outdoor seating and views of Lake Ariel

The Lake Ariel area offers a variety of dining options, from casual lakeside eateries to upscale restaurants in nearby towns. Local cuisine features fresh ingredients from Pennsylvania farms and plenty of comfort food options.

Must-Try Local Restaurants

Lakeside Dining

Enjoy meals with a view at waterfront establishments like The Boat House Restaurant and The Dock on Wallenpaupack. These restaurants serve fresh seafood, steaks, and American classics while offering stunning lake views, especially at sunset.

Local Breweries & Wineries

Sample craft beverages at Wallenpaupack Brewing Company, Ritter’s Winery & Cidery, and Jam Room Brewing Co. These establishments offer locally-produced beers, wines, and ciders, often paired with delicious pub fare in relaxed settings.

Casual Eats

For more casual dining, check out Drafts Bar & Grill in Lake Ariel or R Place on 590 in Hamlin. These local favorites serve hearty portions of comfort food including burgers, sandwiches, and pizza in family-friendly environments.

Local Specialties to Try

Pennsylvania Dutch Dishes – Look for traditional items like scrapple, shoofly pie, and chicken pot pie on local menus.
Fresh Trout – Locally caught and served at many restaurants, often simply prepared to highlight its freshness.
Apple Cider Donuts – A regional favorite, especially during fall months.
Craft Beers – The Pocono region has a growing craft beer scene worth exploring.

Attractions, Sightseeing & Activities

Lake Ariel and the surrounding Pocono Lake Region offer a wealth of attractions and activities for visitors of all ages. From water recreation to cultural experiences, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Top Attractions in Lake Ariel

Lake Ariel Itself

The centerpiece of the area, this pristine lake offers swimming, fishing, and boating opportunities. The lake’s clean waters make it perfect for a refreshing swim during summer months, while anglers can try their luck catching bass, trout, and perch.

Lacawac Sanctuary

A 550-acre nature preserve featuring Lake Lacawac, one of the most pristine lakes in the Northern Hemisphere. The sanctuary offers hiking trails, educational programs, and opportunities to observe diverse wildlife in their natural habitat.

Claws ‘N’ Paws Wild Animal Park

A family-friendly zoo where visitors can get up close with exotic animals. The park features a petting zoo, dinosaur outpost, and various animal exhibits that delight visitors of all ages.

Nearby Attractions Worth Visiting

Lake Wallenpaupack – Just a short drive away, this larger lake offers additional water recreation opportunities, scenic boat tours, and a public beach.
Promised Land State Park – Located in Greentown, this beautiful state park features two lakes, miles of hiking trails, and camping facilities.
Delaware State Forest – Spanning over 83,000 acres, this forest offers extensive hiking, hunting, and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Hawley Silk Mill – A historic building transformed into a shopping and dining destination with boutiques, galleries, and the Cocoon Coffee House.
Pennsylvania Rail Bike – In nearby Hawley, this unique attraction allows visitors to pedal along historic railroad tracks on specially designed bikes.

Museums, Cultural Spots & Festivals

While Lake Ariel is primarily known for its natural beauty, the surrounding area offers rich cultural experiences through museums, historic sites, and vibrant festivals that celebrate local heritage.

Museums & Historic Sites

Dorflinger Glass Museum

Located in nearby White Mills, this museum showcases exquisite cut crystal produced by the Dorflinger Factory from 1852 to 1921. The museum is set on a beautiful wildlife sanctuary with walking trails and picnic areas.

Wayne County Historical Society

In Honesdale, this museum preserves the region’s rich history, including a replica of the Stourbridge Lion, the first commercial locomotive operated in the United States.

Hawley Silk Mill

Built in 1880, this historic building has been reimagined as a shopping and cultural center. Explore boutiques, art galleries, and learn about the building’s fascinating past as a silk factory.

Annual Festivals & Events

Wally Lake Fest (August) – A celebration of Lake Wallenpaupack featuring boat tours, live music, open markets, and water activities.
Wally Wine Fest (June) – Held at Silver Birches Resort, this event showcases fine wines from regional and national vineyards.
Hawley Winterfest (December) – A holiday celebration with horse-drawn carriage rides, festive markets, and seasonal activities.
Honesdale Roots & Rhythm Music & Arts Festival (June) – A free music and arts festival in nearby Honesdale featuring live performances and local artisans.
Harvest and Heritage Days (October) – Celebrating the region’s agricultural roots with seasonal activities and historical demonstrations.

Sports, Nature & Outdoor Experiences

Hikers on a scenic trail in the forests near Lake Ariel

The Lake Ariel area is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a wide range of activities throughout the year. From water sports to hiking and wildlife viewing, nature lovers will find plenty to enjoy.

Water Activities

Boating & Kayaking

Both Lake Ariel and nearby Lake Wallenpaupack offer excellent boating opportunities. Rent pontoons, kayaks, or canoes from local outfitters like Pocono Action Sports at Lighthouse Harbor Marina. The calm waters of Lake Ariel are particularly ideal for paddling.

Fishing

The lakes in the region are known for excellent fishing. Anglers can catch largemouth and smallmouth bass, walleye, perch, and trout. Remember that a valid Pennsylvania fishing license is required for anyone 16 and older.

Swimming

During summer months, cool off with a swim at Palmyra Township Public Beach on Lake Wallenpaupack or at designated swimming areas in Promised Land State Park. Lake Ariel itself has limited public swimming access but is accessible from private properties.

Land-Based Activities

Hiking – Explore trails at Lacawac Sanctuary, Promised Land State Park, and Delaware State Forest. The Wallenpaupack Lake Trail offers scenic views of Lake Wallenpaupack.
Wildlife Viewing – The region is home to diverse wildlife including deer, black bears, eagles, and numerous bird species. Bring binoculars for the best viewing opportunities.
Golfing – Several golf courses are located within a short drive of Lake Ariel, offering challenging play with scenic mountain backdrops.
Winter Sports – When snow falls, the area transforms for winter recreation including cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and ice fishing on frozen lakes.

Safety, Etiquette & Local Customs

Family enjoying a safe picnic by Lake Ariel with proper outdoor etiquette

Ensuring a safe and respectful visit to Lake Ariel enhances the experience for everyone. Here are important safety considerations and local etiquette to keep in mind during your stay.

Water Safety

Always wear life jackets when boating, especially children.
Be aware of changing weather conditions that can affect water activities.
Swim only in designated areas and never alone.
Observe posted speed limits and no-wake zones when boating.
Be mindful of fishing lines when swimming or paddling.

Outdoor Safety

Carry water and sun protection when hiking, even on cooler days.
Stay on marked trails to protect the environment and avoid getting lost.
Be aware that black bears inhabit the region – store food properly and maintain a safe distance if encountered.
Check for ticks after outdoor activities, as Lyme disease is present in the area.
During hunting seasons (primarily fall), wear bright colors when hiking in state forests.

Local Etiquette

Residents of the Lake Ariel area take pride in their natural surroundings and appreciate visitors who do the same. Practice “Leave No Trace” principles by packing out all trash, respecting private property boundaries, and keeping noise levels reasonable, especially in the evenings. Many lakefront properties are privately owned, so always use public access points for entering lakes unless you have permission.

Visitor Comments About Lake Ariel

“Lake Ariel was the perfect escape from city life. We rented a cabin for a week and spent our days fishing, hiking at Lacawac Sanctuary, and exploring the small towns nearby. The water was incredibly clear, and the locals were so welcoming. Don’t miss Ritter’s Winery – their outdoor seating area is gorgeous!”

D.K., Sarasota

“We’ve been coming to Lake Ariel for three summers now and always discover something new. This year we tried the Pennsylvania Rail Bike in Hawley which was a unique experience the whole family loved. The area has a perfect balance of outdoor activities and small-town charm without the crowds of some other Pocono destinations.”

W.G., Decatur

“As first-time visitors to the Poconos, we weren’t sure what to expect, but Lake Ariel exceeded our expectations. The fall colors were spectacular during our October visit, and Promised Land State Park was a highlight. We appreciated the mix of natural beauty and cultural attractions like the Dorflinger Glass Museum.”

O.I., Miami

Practical Travel Tips

Travelers checking a map while exploring the Lake Ariel area

Essential Information

Connectivity

Cell service can be spotty in more remote areas around Lake Ariel. Download maps and information before venturing into state parks or forests. Most accommodations and restaurants offer Wi-Fi, but it’s wise to prepare for limited connectivity during outdoor activities.

Local Services

The nearest hospital is Wayne Memorial Hospital in Honesdale, about 20 minutes from Lake Ariel. For groceries and supplies, you’ll find small markets in Lake Ariel and larger supermarkets in nearby Hamlin. ATMs are available at local banks and some convenience stores.

What to Pack

Even in summer, evenings can be cool, so bring layers. Pack sturdy walking shoes, insect repellent, sunscreen, and a reusable water bottle. If planning water activities, bring quick-dry clothing and water shoes. A small backpack is useful for day hikes.

Money-Saving Tips

Visit during weekdays or shoulder seasons (late spring/early fall) for lower accommodation rates.
Many natural attractions like hiking trails and some beaches have minimal or no entrance fees.
Consider renting a cabin with kitchen facilities to prepare some of your own meals.
Look for combination tickets for attractions or multi-day passes for state parks if planning several visits.
Bring your own equipment (fishing gear, kayaks, etc.) if possible, rather than renting.

Your Perfect Pocono Getaway Awaits

Lake Ariel offers a refreshing escape from the ordinary, where pristine waters meet forested mountains to create a natural playground for all seasons. Whether you’re casting a line at dawn, hiking through vibrant fall foliage, or simply unwinding on a cabin porch as the sun sets over the water, this hidden gem in the Pocono Mountains provides the perfect backdrop for creating lasting memories. With its blend of outdoor adventure, cultural attractions, and small-town charm, Lake Ariel invites you to discover your own perfect pace in a setting where nature’s beauty takes center stage. Pack your sense of adventure and prepare to be enchanted by one of Pennsylvania’s most captivating lake destinations.

The above is subject to change. Check back often to TRAVEL.COM for the latest travel information and deals.