Lehigh Gorge State Park offers beautiful, steep-walled gorges that contain lush outcrops of vegetation and several beautiful waterfalls. Multiple opportunities for camping and hiking make this park very popular with out-of-state guests, while a strong summer rafting culture brings in the locals each season. Whitewater rapids are available through the park via the Lehigh River, which contains both class II and class III rapids.
Rafting, canoeing, and kayaking are all available on the river provided guests follow all posted safety regulations. Three access points exist along the river, and these are the only areas in which guests are allowed to launch their vessels. For those looking to have a trip along the river, there are three lengths to choose from.
White Haven to Rockport is a 3-hour, 8.5-mile stretch that offers some of the calmest rafting along the river. If you're feeling especially adventurous, you can attempt the 20.9-mile White Haven to Glen Onoko run. This can last up to 12 hours depending on current water levels in the river. For more information on the current conditions in and around Lehigh Gorge State Park, check with park officials.
Due to the severe nature of the rapids, canines are prohibited from all launching areas. Hiking is another favorite past time in Lehigh Gorge State Park, with 26 total miles of trails to explore. There are seven different waterfalls that can be seen from these paths, as well as several preserved sections of the historic Lehigh Canal.
These trails are easily accessible by individuals of all ages and abilities, save for the Bald Mountain trails. These are privately owned, and should only be attempted with proper mountaineering equipment. Canines are welcome to accompany hikers on these trails, provided they stay on a leash no longer than six feet in length. Visitors are required to clean up any messes their pets might leave behind.