Hidden Lake Trail

The Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area features 40 miles of river and over 100 miles of hiking trails for adventurers to explore. Located along the Middle Delaware National Scenic and Recreational River in both Pennsylvania and New Jersey, the enormous 70,000 acre park also includes 28 miles of the Appalachian National Scenic Trail. With so much to explore, where is a good place to start?One ideal spot for an easy day hike is Hidden Lake Trail. Located within Delaware Water Gap's Pennsylvania region, off of Hidden Lake Drive (Route 517), this 2.1 mile trail leads hikers through a deciduous forest while providing constant views of peaceful Hidden Lake.Parking at the picnic area lot, adventurers will find a few lakeside picnic tables, garbage cans, pit toilets and a sign indicating the start of the trail. There are no other facilities along the trail. There are no trail markers, though the trail is generally easy to follow.While hikers need to watch the dirt trail for rocks and roots, they should also look for white-tailed deer and be sure to check the water's edge for frogs and turtles. Along the way, adventurers will discover a boarded, abandoned building. Nearby, a plaque states, "In Honor and Remembrance of the heroes and victims of September 11, 2001 and to celebrate the enduring spirit of all Americans." The plaque was presented by members of Woodmen of the World Life Insurance Society.Hidden Lake was created because of the natural spring water occurring here. An earthen dam was built and the lake was formed by capturing the spring water. Hikers should be aware that the trail is likely to have wet areas. Boards, logs and rocks are placed to help hikers cross some of these areas. When hikers cross a bridge, the trail exits the woods for a short distance and leads over the earthen dam. A second parking lot with access to the trail is located here. It is also a popular spot for fishermen to cast their lines for a variety of fish, including chain pickerel, largemouth bass, sunfish, rainbow trout and yellow perch.The trail continues around the lake and back into the woods, completing a loop and returning to the picnic area where hikers can sit and ponder their next Delaware Water Gap adventure.References and for more information:https://www.nps.gov/dewa/index.htmps.gov/dewa/learn/news/upload/Guide-to-Gap-Semi-Perm_2021_RevisedWebCopy.pdf