Rise early, when the sun is just peaking over the horizon and the water is smooth as glass. This is the time when the calm, peaceful serenity on the lake puts your soul at ease.

Whether you enjoy all the activities the lake has to offer, or simply choose to relax with the gentle lap of waves against the shore, an escape to a lake holds the promise of a return to simple pleasures. This Summer we discovered a destination with so much to offer we could barely fit all we wanted to do in the time we had.

Lake Wallenpaupack in Eastern Pennsylvania stretches across 52 miles of shoreline, is 13 miles in length, and up to 60 feet deep at points. Visitors to the lake’s clear waters can enjoy stays at numerous resorts, condos and rentals, plus eateries and outfitters that will accommodate fun at every turn. Add to that the charming town of Hawley and the natural beauty of the Pocono Mountains and you have a destination unto itself.

On the water. There are so many ways to enjoy the sparkling waters in the heart of the Poconos. The main attraction covers 5700 acres with four islands to explore and countless watercraft available for visitors and locals. Call ahead to one of several marinas to set you up with a fishing boat, speedboat or pontoon. On the quieter side you can learn to sail or paddle the waters yourself in a kayak or stand-up paddle board. And if you just want to sit back and relax while taking in the scenery and history, guided tours are available through Wallenpaupack Scenic Boat Tours. Or, just enjoy the sandy shoreline Palmyra Public Beach for a day of picnicking and swimming.

Get hooked. Any fisherman at any level can tell you what a thrill it is to feel that tug on the line when you’ve hooked one. While Smallmouth Bass are what the lake is known for, the waters are stocked with walleye, striped bass and trout.

Rooms with a view. The Inn at Silver Birches is a charming collection of cottages set on a grassy slope that leads to the water’s edge. White Adirondack chairs dot the lawn and circle around the fire pits at night. There’s a wonderful main ‘lodge’ tastefully furnished with a woodsy, lakefront feel, it’s a great place to curl up with a good book or a bring a partner to the game table.

There’s a pool on the property, with an outdoor bar, complimentary kayak and paddle board rentals, lawn games and nightly events including a sunset champagne toast.

Or, for a home away from home rent a condo. Ours was perfectly situated with a lakefront view and an easy walk to launch our kayaks. Taking a night to cook in, use the community grill and enjoy the sunset is the perfect ending to a perfect day.

Hungry yet? On the property of the Silver Birches you’ll find The Dock. We got the best table in the house, outside on the second level patio, complete with sunset views over the lake and marina.

The Wallenpaupack Brewing Company serves up flights of traditional stouts plus inventive sours and fruits. The pub-style menu is excellent, featuring burgers, grilled cheese and my favorite, the ‘Thank U Arby’s – Sliced roast beef, beer braised onions and beer cheddar cheese sauce on an onion roll. Don’t leave without a growler of whatever your favorite turns out to be…maybe the smallmouth IPA?

For a truly memorable dining adventure unlike any other, do not miss the experience of a meal alongside the serene waterfall at Ledges.

The outside dining area has tables at four levels with spectacular views of the boulder-strewn falls. We picked a great night to go, as the restaurant featured a family BBQ and blues band to make the spectacular setting even more special. This is a must-see and do!

Small town charm. If you can tear yourself away from Mother Nature, there’s lots to explore in Hawley. The region’s history is showcased at D & H Canal Park and the Hawley Silk Mill.

And if antiquing is your thing, discoveries await, beginning with the Wayne Pike Antique Dealers Association, the Hawley Silk Mill and shops and boutiques throughout the area.

Into the woods. There’s plenty of hiking right around the lake, including the Wallenpaupack Lake trail, Wallenpaupack creek trail and over 50 miles of trails to explore in nearby Promised Land State Park and Delaware State Forest. For some unforgettable natural beauty, venture a bit further to find Pennsylvania’s scenic waterfalls.

Easily accessible with hikes ranging from short walks to several mile treks, don’t miss the lush greenery that surrounds Silver Thread and Dingman’s Falls (on the same trail). Once you enter the forest it feels like you’ve entered a moss-covered terrarium, illuminated with shafts of sunlight streaming from above.

Another must-see is the towering three-tiered Raymondskill Falls, the tallest in Pennsylvania (in total, just a few feet shorter than Niagara). Both of these stunning cascades are have incredible viewing areas provided by stairs and landings built into the trails.

The lake life can be all about rest and relaxation or fun in the sun…or the perfect mix of both. Add in the natural beauty of the Poconos, great dining options and quaint historic towns and you’ll have a getaway to remember.

Please leave a comment: what’s your favorite lake and why do you love it!

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