- Hunting
The areas State Parks welcome hunters with a current Pennsylvania hunting license; remember to obey the rules and regulations of the PA Game Commission, and enjoy the outdoors. - Go to the Park
Florence Shelly Preserve, a 357-acre preserve, boasts fields, woodlands, a stream, and a glacial pond surrounded by a floating bog. A stewardship committee has created pleasant walkways, a self-guided trail and an observation platform overlooking the swamp for visitors to fully experience the preserve. A part of the Nature Conservancy, the Preserve is located outside of Thompson. More information: 570-756-2429 or 570-727-3362Merli-Sarnoski Park, an 840 acre park and woods with fish stocked mountain lake, hiking trails, swimming, and picnic areas. Located on Sandy Banks Road off Rt. 106, near Finch Hill.
More information: 570-876-1714.Salt Spring State Park, located in Franklin Township, Susquehanna County, offers hiking trails, waterfalls, picnic facilities and camping sites in a woodland setting. There are events and workshops for all to enjoy the natural surroundings. The park is open to all, without charge, throughout the year from sunrise to sunset.
More information: 570-967-PARKThe Woodbourne Forest and Wildlife Preserve, a 648-acre preserve, evokes a rural New England landscape of white pine, hemlocks, ash, maples, oaks and other hardwoods, and ancient trees. Nearly 200 acres of the preserve contains the largest remaining old-growth forest in northeast Pennsylvania. Open fields, wildflower meadows, winding creeks, mossy bogs and historic stone walls invite visitors to explore and enjoy. The preserve is located on Rt. 29, approximately 6 miles south of Montrose.
Info: (570) 278-3384
- Cross Country Skiing & Snowshoeing
Chet’s Place invites you to grab a boxed lunch and enjoy their scenic cross country trails. Cross Country rentals are available.
The D&H, a local Rail-Trail, provides 32 miles of wooded trail; local State Parks offer cross country skiing on park roads, along snowmobile trails, through forests and open fields. - Downhill Skiing
When you’re looking for numerous trails with excellent conditions, challenging skiing and spectacular views, Elk Mountain is where you want to be this winter!
For all your skiing and snowboard needs, stop by Idlewild Ski Shop on the way to the slopes! - Ice Fishing
Local State Parks welcome anglers with fishing licenses when the ice is at least four inches thick; check with Pennsylvania Fish & Boat Commission for more about ice safety. - Ice Skating
Show off your talent, skate, spin and jump around a mountain lake at Merli-Sarnoski Park on Sandy Banks Road off Rt. 106, near Finch Hill. - Snowmobiling
The NE PA Sno-Trails Organization maintains and grooms 150 miles of a snowmobile system. A trail pass is required; applications are available by calling the Rail-Trails office.
- Biking
Enjoy the area’s natural and unspoiled beauty while biking along country roads or the Rail-Trails.
PA law requires all children under 12 to wear an approved helmet while riding. The bicycle laws help insure the safety of everyone on the road. Please become familiar with our Commonwealth’s regulations. - Fishing
Susquehanna County streams, lakes and rivers offers some of the regions best fishing; places to get your catch: Canwacta Creek-South Branch, Fall Brook, Gaylord Creek, Lackawanna River-West Branch, Lackawanna River, Martin Creek, Meshoppen Creek, Messhopen Creek-West Branch, Nine Partners Creek, Quaker Lake, Salt Lick Creek, Silver Creek, Snake Creek, Starrucca Creek, Tunkhannock Creek, Tunkhannock Creek-East Branch, Wyalusing Creek-East Branch, Middle Branch and North Branch.
For everything you ever wanted to know about fishing and boating, visit the Pennsylvania Fish & Boat Commission. - Golfing
The nearby scenic and challenging golf courses make the Elk Mountain area a golfers dream… Play a round at Panorama Golf Course or Scottish Glen Golf Course. - Head to the River
The Lackawanna River Corridor Association sponsors activities and events on the river and nearby trails. Visit www.lrca.org for a schedule and on-going volunteer opportunities. - Hiking
The local country roads and Rail-Trails are also great for hiking, and for a workout and an experience to remember, climb Elk Mountain.
Hello
Can you tell me if there is a place in the elk mountain area to rent Kayaks or a pontoon boat for a few hours?
Hi Debra, You might try General Merchandise Company http://genmerch.tripod.com/ 570-222-4330.
At one time they had kayaks, not sure if they could still help you out, or they might know of someplace that can.
Wish I could be of more help – best wishes!
Is there a place in Elk mountain where you can rent bikes for Adults and kids. Please provide details.
Hi!
No rentals right on the hill.. if coming from south check Cedar bike shop, if coming from north check New Milford bike shop.