24 Things To Do In Lake Harmony, Pennsylvania

Lake Harmony began as a private retreat for executives from the Lehigh Valley Railroad in the early 1900s. What started as a man-made lake created by damming a mountain stream soon became a destination for Pennsylvanians looking to escape the smoke and steel of city life. Today, it's part of Kidder Township in Carbon County, with a local population of just over 1,200—but that number swells every weekend with visitors chasing fresh air and peace.

The surrounding Pocono Mountains carry deeper stories. Lenape tribes once moved through these valleys, long before resorts arrived. In the 19th century, the area’s natural resources helped fuel the region’s industrial growth. But by the mid-20th century, the Poconos became something else—a quiet counterpoint to America’s rising speed. Ski lodges, golf courses, and lake resorts sprang up not to compete with cities, but to offer relief from them.

Today, people visit for the waterfalls, the hiking, the stillness of the woods. Others come for weddings, reunions, or to catch their breath after hard months in hard cities.

As one local once said, “You don’t come to the Poconos to be impressed. You come to remember what quiet feels like.”

Let's explore the best things to do in Lake Harmony.

1. Experience the Serenity of Hawk Falls

📍 Location: Hickory Run State Park, Trailhead on PA-534, Lake Harmony, PA 18624

Hawk Falls is one of the most visited natural sites in Hickory Run State Park, located in Carbon County, Pennsylvania. The falls get their name from Hawk Run, the cold mountain stream that feeds the cascade. At just 25 feet tall, Hawk Falls isn’t massive—but it has become one of the region’s most photographed and revisited landmarks.

The trail to the falls begins near Route 534. It’s short—just over half a mile one way—but rocky and uneven in places. Along the path, hikers cross a small wooden bridge and follow a forested route that leads directly to the base of the waterfall. The pool beneath the falls is deep enough to draw swimmers during the summer months, although the park prohibits swimming for safety reasons.

What sets Hawk Falls apart is its accessibility. It offers a quick, rewarding hike that suits both seasoned hikers and families with kids. In the fall, the surrounding trees turn deep shades of red and gold, drawing visitors from across the state. In the spring, snowmelt adds force to the waterfall, making it one of the best times to visit.

There’s no entrance fee to the park, and the trail is open year-round. Proper shoes are recommended. Crowds are common on weekends.

2. Elevate Your Perspective with a Private Mount Pocono Observation Air Tour

📍 Address: Pocono Mountains Municipal Airport, 188 Airport Dr, Tobyhanna, PA 18466

Private air tours over Mount Pocono offer a clear, uninterrupted view of the Pocono Mountains that most visitors never get. Flights typically depart from the Pocono Mountains Municipal Airport, located off Route 611 near the town of Mount Pocono. Tour operators use small aircraft, usually Cessnas, and the flights range from 20 to 45 minutes depending on the package.

From the air, you can see the region’s natural layout—dense forests, rolling hills, scattered lakes, and ski slopes carved into the mountainsides. On clear days, pilots point out landmarks such as Lake Harmony, Big Boulder Mountain, and Hickory Run State Park. In the fall, the flights are especially popular as the landscape turns to deep reds, golds, and orange.

These tours are often booked for special occasions: anniversaries, proposals, birthdays. But solo travelers and families also book flights for the experience alone. The aircraft typically seat two to three passengers, and most tours are available year-round, weather permitting.

There’s a weight limit, and most operators require advance reservations. Noise-canceling headsets are usually provided, and pilots offer live narration during the flight.

3. Set Sail on Lake Harmony Cruises

📍 Address: Dock access near Nick’s Lake House, 110 S Lake Dr, Lake Harmony, PA 18624

Lake Harmony is a 125-acre freshwater lake located in Kidder Township, Carbon County. It was originally developed in the early 20th century as part of a private retreat tied to the Lehigh Valley Railroad. Today, it serves as both a residential area and a year-round tourism hub in the western Pocono Mountains.

Cruises on Lake Harmony are typically offered on pontoon boats, with local captains providing short narrated tours around the lake. These rides last about 45 minutes to an hour and operate mostly from late spring through early fall. Departure points are usually located near Split Rock Resort, one of the main lodging options in the area.

The cruises cover the full shoreline, offering views of vacation homes, wooded shorelines, and historic lakeside structures. Some boats are set up for private groups, with BYOB policies and optional catering from nearby restaurants. Others operate on a shared basis, often during sunset hours when the lake is at its calmest.

4. Unwind and Recharge at Split Rock Resort

📍 Address: 428 Moseywood Rd, Lake Harmony, PA 18624

Split Rock Resort is one of the oldest and most well-known resorts in the Pocono Mountains. It sits directly on the western edge of Lake Harmony and has been operating in some form since the 1940s. Originally a private lodge, it later expanded into a full-service resort catering to families, couples, and large groups year-round.

The property spans over 1,200 acres and includes hotel-style rooms, villas, and timeshare suites. Amenities are spread out across several buildings and include an indoor waterpark, a movie theater, bowling alley, arcade, indoor and outdoor pools, and multiple dining options. During the summer, access to Lake Harmony’s small beach area is included with most bookings.

Split Rock is also home to the H2Oooohh! Indoor Waterpark, a 53,000-square-foot facility with slides, a lazy river, and a FlowRider surf machine. While the waterpark is open to the public, resort guests get priority access and discounted rates.

The resort is popular for weddings, conferences, and seasonal events. In winter, it serves as a base for visitors skiing at nearby Big Boulder Mountain or Jack Frost Ski Resort, both of which are less than 15 minutes away.

Some areas of the resort show their age, and reviews are mixed on room updates. But for families looking for a central location with all-in-one convenience, Split Rock remains a key part of why Lake Harmony sees repeat visitors year after year.

5. Experiencing Golfing Excellence at Jack Frost National Golf Club

📍 Address: 1 Jack Frost Mountain Rd, Blakeslee, PA 18610

Jack Frost National Golf Club sits on top of a ridge in Blakeslee, Pennsylvania, about 10 minutes from Lake Harmony. The course opened in 2005 and was designed by Terry LaGree, the same architect behind several other mountain-region courses across the country. Built at higher elevation than most courses in the area, Jack Frost offers cooler temperatures and long-distance views over the Pocono Mountains.

The layout features 18 holes, par 72, and stretches just over 7,200 yards from the back tees. Fairways are wide, but elevation changes and natural hazards add difficulty. The back nine in particular has several risk-reward holes, with sloped greens and water carries that can punish aggressive play. Still, it’s not overly technical, and casual golfers can get through a round without frustration.

Greens are well-kept, and the course is usually in solid shape from late spring through early fall. The clubhouse includes a pro shop, full-service bar and grill, and an outdoor patio with views of the 18th green.

Jack Frost is a public course, but it feels semi-private. Tee times fill fast on weekends, especially during peak foliage season in October. Cart use is mandatory, and walking is not permitted due to the terrain.

6. Adventurous Escapades at Big Boulder Mountain

📍 Address: 357 Big Boulder Dr, Lake Harmony, PA 18624

Big Boulder Mountain holds a unique place in Pennsylvania ski history. It was the first commercial ski resort in the state to use artificial snow, setting the stage for the Pocono Mountains to become a winter destination. Located just 10 minutes from Lake Harmony, Big Boulder still plays a major role in the area’s seasonal economy.

The resort is part of JFBB (Jack Frost Big Boulder) and is now operated by Vail Resorts, giving it access to Epic Pass holders. Compared to its sister mountain, Jack Frost, Big Boulder has a smaller footprint but a younger vibe. It’s known for terrain parks, night skiing, and a stronger presence of snowboarders and freestyle skiers.

Big Boulder offers 15 trails and eight lifts, with most runs geared toward beginner and intermediate levels. The vertical drop is 475 feet, which is modest, but the park setup is one of the best in the state. Jumps, rails, and boxes are maintained regularly, making it a draw for skiers and riders looking to build skill.

Snowmaking covers nearly 100% of the mountain, and night skiing runs daily in peak season. There's a base lodge with food service, rentals, and ski school programs for all ages.

7. Battling Excitement at Skirmish USA

📍 Address: 211 N Meckesville Rd, Albrightsville, PA 18210

Skirmish USA is not a typical weekend activity. It’s 750 acres of woods, open fields, and built environments dedicated to paintball. Located about 15 minutes from Lake Harmony, it’s widely considered one of the largest and most well-known paintball facilities in the United States.

The property includes over 50 separate playing maps, each with a different setup. Some mimic urban warfare with plywood buildings, buses, and barricades. Others are open forest with forts, trenches, and sniper towers. The most famous field is probably Castle Nights Watch, a two-story medieval-style fortress used in Skirmish’s scenario games.

Players come in groups or alone and are matched based on experience. The staff runs the operation with military-style organization: pre-game briefings, referees on every map, strict safety rules, and clearly marked zones. Equipment is available to rent, or players can bring their own.

Throughout the year, Skirmish hosts massive events—the biggest being the Invasion of Normandy, which draws thousands of players from across the country. These large-scale battles often run all day and are treated like full-blown tactical simulations.

8. Embarking on Wilderness Explorations at Pocono Outdoor Adventure Tours

📍 Address: 1234 Long Pond Rd, Long Pond, PA 18334

Pocono Outdoor Adventure Tours offers off-road excursions through the private trails surrounding Pocono Manor. Located about 25 minutes from Lake Harmony, the operation runs guided UTV (Utility Task Vehicle) rides designed to give visitors access to parts of the Pocono wilderness that aren’t visible from the road or hiking paths.

Tours typically run 60 to 90 minutes, depending on the package. Riders use two- or four-seat UTVs that are built for rough terrain. These aren’t dune buggies—they’re all-terrain machines with roll cages and safety harnesses, and they can handle deep ruts, loose rock, mud, and water crossings. Every group is led by a guide who sets the pace and keeps things safe.

No experience is necessary. Before each tour, there’s a safety demo and short driving orientation. You’ll get helmets, goggles, and instructions on what to expect from the trail. Passengers must be at least 5 years old, and drivers must hold a valid license.

The trails run through wooded terrain, open clearings, and rocky climbs. In dry weather, it’s dusty. After rain, it’s a mud bath.

9. A Taste of Serenity at Boulder View Tavern

📍 Address: 123 Lake Harmony Rd, Lake Harmony, PA 18624

Boulder View Tavern sits on the northern edge of Lake Harmony, facing the water with a clear view of the tree line and the open lake. It’s one of the few full-service restaurants in the area that actually puts you right on the shoreline. The setup is simple—solid food, a full bar, and a view worth slowing down for.

The menu leans American casual: burgers, steaks, pasta, seafood, and a few seasonal specials. It’s not high-concept dining, but the portions are fair, the ingredients are fresh, and the execution is consistent. The crab cakes and grilled salmon are local favorites, and the wings get mentioned often in repeat reviews.

What gives Boulder View staying power is the location. In summer, the outdoor deck fills up fast. You can watch boats drift across the lake while you eat, or stay late for sunset drinks as the lights come on across the water. In colder months, the indoor dining room keeps the lake view through large windows and a stone fireplace at the center of the room.

Live music is a regular feature on weekends, and the bar stays open later than most spots in the area. Parking is on-site and usually manageable, though weekends can get busy.

It’s not upscale. It’s not flashy. But it’s where both locals and weekenders go when they want a meal with no guesswork—and a view that does most of the talking.

10. Embracing Water Exhilaration at Lake Harmony Watersports

📍 Address: Lake Harmony Marina, near 37 N Lake Dr, Lake Harmony, PA 18624

Lake Harmony Watersports is the go-to outfitter for active lake days in the area. Based right on Lake Harmony, the company offers a range of water-based activities including wakeboarding, waterskiing, tubing, and jet ski rentals. It operates primarily during the summer months—from Memorial Day through Labor Day—with appointments strongly recommended due to high demand.

The setup is simple. You book a time slot, show up at the dock near Lake Harmony Inn, and staff handle the rest. Instructors are trained, patient, and used to working with beginners. Most sessions run between 30 minutes and an hour, with all equipment—life vests, boards, skis—provided as part of the rate.

Wakeboarding and waterskiing are the main draw here, especially for families with teens or small groups looking for more than a boat ride. Tubing is a popular option for younger kids, or anyone looking for something fast but low-pressure. Jet ski rentals are available by the half-hour or hour, with clear safety instructions and an enforced riding perimeter.

The lake itself is 125 acres, so while it’s not massive, it’s large enough to support water sports without feeling overcrowded. Early mornings and late afternoons tend to be calmer and better for smooth rides.

Lake Harmony has noise and speed restrictions in place during certain hours, so check ahead if you’re booking close to dusk or planning a longer rental. Everything is weather-dependent, and cancellations due to wind or storms are common in July and August.

11. Unveiling Mysteries at Hickory Run Boulder Field

📍 Address: Hickory Run State Park, Boulder Field Rd, Lake Harmony, PA 18624

Hickory Run Boulder Field is one of the most unusual natural features in Pennsylvania—and one of the least understood. Located inside Hickory Run State Park, this field stretches across 16.5 acres and is covered entirely by large, jagged boulders. No trees. No grass. Just stone.

What makes it stand out isn’t just the size. It’s the age. The boulders were formed over 20,000 years ago during the last Ice Age. As glaciers pushed and retreated, freeze-thaw cycles shattered the sandstone bedrock, slowly moving the pieces downhill. The result is a massive, flat field of rock that looks more like something from Utah or Iceland than eastern Pennsylvania.

There’s no entry fee. To reach the field, you can drive directly to the nearby parking area or hike in via longer trails. Either way, expect to spend some time walking carefully. The rocks are uneven and can be slick when wet. There’s no pavement or path across—it’s all natural.

Visitors usually don’t stay long, but the experience sticks. It’s quiet. Oddly quiet. The kind of place that makes you speak softer without knowing why.

No fences. No signs telling you what to feel. Just rock, time, and the weight of both.

12. Savoring the Greens at Pocono Manor Golf Course

📍 Address: 1 Manor Dr, Pocono Manor, PA 18349

Pocono Manor Golf Course opened in 1912, making it one of the oldest courses in the region. It’s part of the historic Pocono Manor Resort, located about 25 minutes from Lake Harmony. While the original resort building was damaged by fire in 2019, the golf course remains operational and continues to serve both local players and visiting guests.

The course is an 18-hole, par-72 layout, spread across gently rolling hills with open fairways and a few tight doglegs that require accuracy. It’s not overly long—just under 6,500 yards from the back tees—but elevation changes and shifting mountain winds can make club selection tricky, especially on the back nine.

Golfers here come for two things: pace and scenery. Tee times are usually easy to get, and rounds move quickly, even on weekends. The views stretch across the Pocono Plateau, especially in early fall when the treetops shift into red and gold.

There’s a pro shop on site, along with practice greens and carts available for rent. Dining and clubhouse services are limited, especially since the resort is currently under redevelopment. Still, the course remains a solid pick for players who want a quiet round with few distractions.

13. Discovering Nature’s Grandeur at Hickory Run State Park

📍 Address: 3613 PA-534, White Haven, PA 18661

Hickory Run State Park covers more than 15,000 acres in Carbon County, Pennsylvania, just 20 minutes from Lake Harmony. Managed by the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, the park is one of the largest and most diverse outdoor recreation areas in the Pocono Mountains.

Its most famous feature is the Boulder Field (see Section #11), but the park includes over 40 miles of hiking trails, multiple trout streams, waterfalls, a campground, and a sand beach at Sand Spring Lake. Visitors come for day hikes, weekend camping, and seasonal activities like snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.

Trails range from easy loops to more challenging climbs. Shades of Death Trail is one of the most walked routes—about 1 mile long, following a shaded stream and passing several small waterfalls. Hawk Falls, covered in Section #1, is also part of the park and is accessed from a separate trailhead off Route 534.

The park is open year-round, with no entrance fee. Restrooms, picnic areas, and trail maps are available at the visitor center near the main parking area.

There’s no resort traffic here, no commercial noise. Just trees, water, and time. If you want a full picture of what the Pocono Mountains once were—and still are—this is the place to see it.

14. Experiencing Aquatic Adventures at Yeti WaterSports

📍 Address: Lake Harmony Marina, Lake Harmony, PA 18624

Yeti WaterSports operates directly on Lake Harmony, offering rentals and guided water experiences during the summer season. It’s one of the main providers for jet skis, pontoon boats, paddleboards, and banana boat rides on the lake. The company is based at Lake Harmony Inn, giving it a central location with easy walk-up access for guests and day visitors.

Jet ski rentals are the top draw. Riders must be at least 18 with a valid driver’s license, and state boating safety rules apply. Rentals are typically by the half-hour or hour. All safety gear is provided, and staff offer a short safety briefing before anyone hits the water. Speed zones are clearly marked, and the riding area is monitored for safety.

For families and groups, the banana boat rides are popular. Each ride lasts around 15 minutes, pulled by a jet ski, and can seat up to six riders at once. Paddleboards and kayaks are also available for rent, mostly by the hour.

Reservations are recommended during peak weekends, but walk-ins are common on slower days. All rentals are weather-dependent, and staff will cancel or reschedule in the event of storms or high winds.

Yeti WaterSports isn’t luxury—it’s movement, wind, and wake. For anyone looking to be on the water instead of watching it, this is where it starts.

15. Experience Elegance at Split Rock Country Club

📍 Address: 140 Wolf Hollow Rd, Lake Harmony, PA 18624

Split Rock Country Club is a public 27-hole golf facility located inside the Split Rock Resort complex, just minutes from the center of Lake Harmony. Built in stages over the years, the course is made up of three 9-hole loops—North, South, and Lakeside—each with different terrain, layout, and pace.

The course was originally designed in the 1970s and has been updated over time, but it still reflects its resort-style roots. Fairways are wide. Greens are large and forgiving. Water hazards come into play, especially on the Lakeside nine, but overall, the course is playable for beginners and casual golfers. Low handicappers may find the layout less challenging, but the elevation shifts and tree-lined holes still keep it interesting.

The real appeal here is convenience. If you’re staying at Split Rock Resort, the course is a short drive or even walkable from most lodging areas. Tee times are usually available even on weekends, and green fees are reasonable by Pocono standards.

The pro shop is small but functional. A basic snack bar and practice green are on site, but amenities are limited beyond the course itself.

16. Thrills and Spills at Pocono Raceway

📍 Address: 1234 Long Pond Rd, Long Pond, PA 18334

Pocono Raceway, often called “The Tricky Triangle,” is one of the most distinctive tracks on the NASCAR Cup Series calendar. Located in Long Pond, Pennsylvania, about 25 minutes from Lake Harmony, the track is known for its unusual three-turn layout, each modeled after a different speedway. It’s also one of the few major tracks in the U.S. that is still family-owned and independently operated.

The raceway hosts multiple high-profile events each year, including NASCAR Cup Series weekends, ARCA Menards Series, and IndyCar in previous years. Seating can hold over 70,000 spectators, and the infield opens up for RV camping, making it a full-weekend experience for fans.

Beyond race days, Pocono Raceway offers driving experiences through companies like Stock Car Racing Experience. These programs let visitors get behind the wheel of an actual race car or ride along with a pro driver at full speed. Packages range from a few laps to half-day sessions, and they’re available most of the year, weather permitting.

Parking is free for most events. Tickets range from general admission to reserved seating, and kids often get in free with an adult.

17. Embrace Adventure at Pocono Whitewater Rafting

📍 Address: 1519 PA-903, Jim Thorpe, PA 18229

Pocono Whitewater runs guided rafting trips along the Lehigh River, a 109-mile waterway cutting through the heart of the Pocono Mountains. Their base is located in Jim Thorpe, about 30 minutes from Lake Harmony, and they’ve been operating since the 1970s. This is one of the most established outfitters in the region, known for handling both first-timers and experienced paddlers.

Rafting trips are offered in two main formats: Dam Release Whitewater and Family-Style Rafting. The dam release trips are tied to scheduled water releases from the Francis E. Walter Dam, which increases river flow and creates Class II and III rapids. These trips cover 10 to 13 miles, last about 4 to 5 hours, and require moderate physical effort.

Family-style trips happen on calmer water sections—less splash, more float. They're suitable for kids as young as 4 and typically run shorter in both distance and time.

Guides are stationed along the route, but the rafts are self-paddled. You’ll be part of a small group navigating together. All gear—helmet, paddle, life vest—is included, and transportation to the launch point is provided.

Reservations are required. Most trips run April through October, with peak season in midsummer. Dress for the water, not the weather.

18. Engage in Fun and Frolic at Shenanigans

📍 Address: 100 S Lake Dr, Lake Harmony, PA 18624

Shenanigans is one of the few nightlife staples in Lake Harmony that draws a consistent crowd year-round. Located on the main stretch near Split Rock Resort, it’s a full-service bar, restaurant, and nightclub that leans heavily into the weekend scene—live DJs, loud music, and a rotating crowd of vacationers and locals looking for something that doesn’t close at 9 p.m.

During the day, Shenanigans functions like a casual pub. The menu covers typical bar fare: wings, burgers, sandwiches, and pizza. Nothing fancy, but the portions are solid and the service is usually fast, especially if you're coming in with a group. Large TVs line the walls for game days, and there's outdoor seating during the summer months.

After dark, the space shifts. DJs spin late into the night, the dance floor fills up, and the bar stays busy. There’s a strict ID policy and a security team at the door on weekends. Cover charges may apply during peak nights, especially in summer and ski season.

If you're looking for quiet, this isn’t it. But if you’re in Lake Harmony and want one place to hear music, grab drinks, and stay out past midnight—this is where most people end up.

19. Rejuvenate at Retreat in the Wild

📍 Address: 1756 State Route 903, Jim Thorpe, PA 18229

Retreat in the Wild isn’t a single property—it’s a growing style of travel in the Pocono Mountains, especially around Lake Harmony and the surrounding woodlands. These stays focus on minimalism, solitude, and disconnecting from noise—digital and otherwise. Think off-grid cabins, tiny homes, or eco-lodges with no Wi-Fi, no TV, and no tight schedules.

You’ll find these retreats listed on platforms like Airbnb, Karta.com, or through independent rental groups offering weekend or week-long stays. Most are located just outside Lake Harmony, in heavily forested areas near Hickory Run State Park, Blakeslee, or Towamensing Trails.

The setups vary. Some cabins come with wood-burning stoves, outdoor fire pits, and solar power. Others offer upgraded comforts like kitchenettes, loft beds, and big windows that bring in the trees and sky. What they all have in common is privacy.

These stays are popular with couples, solo travelers, and anyone looking for a reset. They're used for writing retreats, digital detoxes, or just weekends without screens. Most properties are self-check-in and operate on minimal contact.

20. Culinary Excursion at Nick’s Lake House Restaurant

📍 Address: 110 S Lake Dr, Lake Harmony, PA 18624

Nick’s Lake House sits directly on the eastern shore of Lake Harmony, making it one of the oldest and most recognizable restaurants in the area. It’s been through multiple renovations and ownership changes over the decades, but it still serves the same purpose it always has—give visitors a place to eat, drink, and relax by the water.

The menu covers American standards: burgers, steaks, pastas, seafood, and flatbreads. You won’t find cutting-edge cuisine here, but the portions are generous, the service is consistent, and the view is the real draw. Most people ask for a table on the multi-level deck, which overlooks the lake and offers direct sunset views in the warmer months.

Inside, the atmosphere is casual. The bar area has TVs for sports, and the dining room stays busy on weekends with families, couples, and large groups. Seasonal cocktails and rotating beer taps are part of the regular drink lineup, and live music is a common feature during summer weekends.

21. Exquisite Dining at Lake View Tavern

📍 Address: 163 Lake Harmony Rd, Lake Harmony, PA 18624

Lake View Tavern is a lesser-known spot near Lake Harmony, often missed by first-time visitors but well-regarded by locals. It’s not directly on the lake, despite the name, but it’s within a few minutes’ drive and offers one of the more low-key dining experiences in the area.

The menu leans toward casual pub food—wings, burgers, wraps, and steaks—with a rotating specials board that usually includes comfort staples like meatloaf, pasta, or seafood. Prices are reasonable, portions are solid, and the kitchen is consistent. What stands out most is the atmosphere: no crowds, no long waits, and no rush.

Inside, the space feels like a small-town tavern should. There’s a bar area with regulars, a few high-top tables, and TVs playing local sports. The dining room is quiet, making it a good option for couples or families looking to avoid louder, more tourist-driven spots.

Lake View Tavern isn’t aiming for big crowds or photo ops. It’s the place people go after the places with lake views are full. And for those who know about it, that’s part of the appeal.

No reservations needed. Just show up, sit down, and eat well.

22. Spiritual Solace at St Peter the Fisherman Church

📍 Address: 211 Sparrow Ln, Lake Harmony, PA 18624

St. Peter the Fisherman Church serves as the primary Catholic parish for the Lake Harmony area. Located just off Route 903, it’s a small but active church that offers regular weekend Mass, community outreach programs, and a consistent presence for both residents and visitors.

The building itself is modern and modest, built to serve year-round residents but often filled with vacationers, especially during the summer months and major holidays. Seating is limited, so arriving early is recommended for busy weekends. The church maintains a straightforward schedule, with Saturday evening and Sunday morning services posted clearly on its bulletin and website.

What stands out here isn’t the architecture or scale—it’s the setting. Surrounded by trees, away from road noise and crowds, it offers a genuine space for quiet, even outside of Mass. There’s a small prayer garden on site, and the interior of the church is clean, unadorned, and focused on function over display.

For travelers who want a place to reflect, pray, or simply sit in silence for a while, St. Peter the Fisherman is one of the few such spaces in the immediate area.

23. Discover the Beauty of Austin T. Blakeslee Natural Area

📍 Address: PA-115 & Tobyhanna Creek, Blakeslee, PA 18610

Austin T. Blakeslee Natural Area is a public preserve located along Tobyhanna Creek, just off Route 115 in Blakeslee, about 10 minutes from Lake Harmony. It covers roughly 130 acres of forest, stream, and rocky outcroppings. The area is maintained by Tobyhanna Township and is open year-round for hiking, fishing, and light outdoor recreation.

The main trail system is short and manageable, with several easy-to-moderate loops that follow the creek and lead to scenic viewpoints. One of the highlights is the small but steady waterfall located just a few minutes into the main trail. It’s a popular photo stop and one of the quieter natural spots in the area—rarely crowded, even on weekends.

Fishing is permitted with a valid Pennsylvania license. The creek supports trout and other freshwater species, and anglers often set up along the shaded banks in early morning or late afternoon.

Parking is free, and there's a small lot near the trailhead. No bathrooms or facilities are available on-site, so plan ahead.

Austin T. Blakeslee Natural Area isn’t big or flashy—but it’s easy to reach, easy to hike, and easy to appreciate. Ideal for a quick walk, a quiet lunch, or a slow start to the day.

24. Culinary Bliss and Unique Finds at Terra Cottage Cafe & Gifts

📍 Address: 329 Lake Harmony Rd, Lake Harmony, PA 18624

Terra Cottage Café & Gifts is part breakfast joint, part boutique shop, and fully embedded in the Lake Harmony experience. Located right along Lake Harmony Road, it’s one of the first places to fill up on weekends and one of the few spots in the area where you can get a full breakfast, shop for gifts, and sit by the water—all in the same visit.

The café opens early and leans into comfort food: stuffed French toast, thick-cut bacon, omelets, pancakes, and strong coffee served in mismatched mugs. Lunch brings wraps, salads, and homemade soups, all made fresh and plated with care. It’s a tight space indoors, but the outdoor patio offers lakeside seating during warmer months.

Attached to the dining area is a small gift shop packed with handmade jewelry, candles, seasonal home décor, and local crafts. It’s not tourist-trap merchandise. Most of the items are made or sourced by people who live nearby, which adds a layer of authenticity.

No reservations. Cash and cards accepted. Lines can get long after 9 a.m. on weekends, but turnover is quick and staff keep things moving.

Terra Cottage isn’t just a meal. It’s part of the morning rhythm in Lake Harmony—and once you’ve been, it’s hard not to come back.

Conclusion

Lake Harmony doesn’t compete with bigger resort towns. It doesn’t chase trends. It doesn’t stretch itself trying to be something it’s not. Instead, it stays close to what works: clean lakes, quiet trails, good food, and just enough activity to fill a weekend—or a whole season.

The Poconos as a region has changed over the years. Ski lodges came and went. Resorts modernized or disappeared. But Lake Harmony held its shape, anchored by places like Split Rock, Boulder Field, and the Lehigh River that have outlasted ownership shifts and tourist cycles.

What you’ll find here isn’t packaged. It’s not polished to perfection. But it’s real. The lake is still cold in the morning. The rocks are still rough under your boots. And the people still treat visitors like part of the place, not just passing business.

You don’t need to plan every hour here. Pick a trail. Grab a table. Sit by the water. You’ll see why families come back, why couples extend their stay, and why even first-timers leave feeling like they’ve touched something steady.

Planning to visit? Karta has some amazing deals on Lake Harmony vacation rentals for you.

FAQ

1. How far is Lake Harmony from Philadelphia?

Lake Harmony is approximately 95 miles north of Philadelphia, making it about a 1.5- to 2-hour drive, depending on traffic. It's an easy day trip or weekend getaway for city dwellers looking to escape to the Poconos for some outdoor relaxation.

2. What is Lake Harmony known for?

Lake Harmony is known for its stunning natural beauty and wide range of outdoor activities. Visitors flock to the area for its water sports, hiking trails, skiing in the winter, and family-friendly attractions like paintball and whitewater rafting. The lake itself is a centerpiece for boating, fishing, and relaxing by the water.

3. Is Lake Harmony worth visiting in the winter?

Absolutely! In the winter, Lake Harmony transforms into a winter sports paradise. Nearby ski resorts like Big Boulder and Jack Frost offer skiing, snowboarding, and tubing. You can also enjoy cozy lakeside accommodations, perfect for relaxing after a day on the slopes.

4. What’s the best time to visit Lake Harmony?

The best time to visit Lake Harmony depends on your preferences. Summer is ideal for boating, fishing, and hiking, while fall brings beautiful foliage. Winter is perfect for snow sports, and spring offers quieter, peaceful getaways with mild weather.

5. Are there family-friendly activities at Lake Harmony?

Yes, Lake Harmony is a great destination for families. You can enjoy activities like boating, swimming, fishing, and hiking. For more adventure, try Skirmish USA for paintball or Pocono Whitewater for family-friendly rafting trips. Nearby waterparks and ski resorts also cater to families year-round.

6. What are the dining options in Lake Harmony?

Lake Harmony offers a variety of dining experiences, from casual lakeside eateries to upscale restaurants. Popular spots include Nick’s Lake House for a relaxed meal with lake views and Boulder View Tavern for delicious pub-style food. You’ll find options ranging from comfort food to more refined cuisine.