EXPLORE OUR OUTDOOR TOWN
Searching for the perfect outdoor getaway? Forest City, proudly known as both a Trail Town & an Outdoor Town, offers endless opportunities to connect with nature throughout the year. From vibrant summer scenes & serene nature walks to colorful autumn festivals & spectacular leaf-peeping, every season paints the landscape with unforgettable experiences.
As a designated Trail Town, Forest City boasts 38 miles of scenic hiking & biking trails that wind through stunning terrain, inviting adventurers of all levels to explore. Winter enthusiasts will thrill to 1,000-foot drops on freshly groomed ski slopes & over 200 miles of interconnected snowmobile trails.
Whether you’re chasing adrenaline or seeking tranquility, the Greater Forest City area brings the best of outdoor living to life in every season!
OUTDOOR ATTRACTIONS
D&H RAIL TRAIL
The 38-mile D&H Rail-Trail stretches from Simpson, PA to the New York border, connecting at its southern end to the 32-mile Lackawanna River Heritage Trail—together forming a 70-mile Greenway! Surrounded by scenic forests & streams, it’s perfect for hiking, biking, horseback riding, dog walking, fishing, kayaking, or simply relaxing by the river.
The Rail-Trail Council of NEPA hosts free year-round events like winter snowshoeing & cross-country skiing, spring & summer bike clinics & yoga walks, plus the popular D&H Half Marathon each September starting at Forest City. Nearby, enjoy local dining, shopping, & friendly faces. Trail access is free, dawn to dusk.
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The Forest City trailhead is located along State Route 171 & serves as the largest trailhead and parking area on the D&H Rail-Trail, making Forest City a convenient & welcoming starting point for trail users
State Route 171
Forest City, Pennsylvania 18421​
ENDLESS MOUNTAINS VISITORS BUREAU
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Northeastern PA’s Endless Mountains, spanning Sullivan & Wyoming counties. Enjoy stunning mountain views, scenic overlooks, & rich history brought to life in unique themed museums.
Adventure awaits with kayaking on the Susquehanna River, hiking through lush forests, or fishing by tranquil waters. Experience vibrant festivals, explore the Endless Mountains Wine Trail with local wines & treats, & browse charming shops filled with distinctive treasures.
After a day of exploration, unwind in cozy lodgings that offer all the comforts of home. Whether you seek peaceful relaxation or thrilling outdoor activities, the Endless Mountains Region has something for everyone. It’s the perfect destination to reconnect with nature & create unforgettable vacation memories.
5405 State Route 6
Tunkhannock, Pennsylvania 18657
(570) 836-5431
KENNEDY PARK
Just five blocks from Main Street, Kennedy Park invites you to step back in time to when neighbors gathered for ball games, holiday fireworks, winter skating, & summer fishing. It remains a vibrant center for good-old-fashioned fun with a fully lit, regulation Little League baseball field, pickleball court, stocked fishing pond, basketball & tennis courts, playground, & disc golf course. The upper field hosts youth sports, while a covered pavilion and gazebo provide charming spaces for community & private events.
Don’t miss the seasonal market at Kennedy Park where you can find local vendors offering everything from farm fresh food & live animals to handmade jewelry, vintage finds, seasonal décor, local foods, distilleries, wineries, cider, & more!
Swimming is allowed from Memorial Day until Labor Day, dawn to dusk. Swim at your own risk, & children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult, ensuring a safe & enjoyable experience for all.
Dundaff Street
Forest City, Pennsylvania 18421​
​(570) 785-3326
PANORAMA GOLF COURSE
Just five minutes from downtown Forest City, Panorama Golf Course truly lives up to its name with stunning panoramic views framed by endless scenic mountains. Originally, Meadow Breeze Farm, owned by Paul & Marie Vauter & once a local dairy bottling & delivery operation, the farm was transformed into a beautiful golf course in the early 1960s.
Designed by PGA professionals Bill Griffiths & Paul Kern, Panorama opened in 1964, with the renovated dairy barn serving as the charming clubhouse. This 18-hole, par-72 USGA championship course spans 7,256 yards from the back tees & has been meticulously maintained & enhanced over the decades.
Panorama offers a challenging yet picturesque experience for golfers of all skill levels. To ensure your spot, tee times are recommended on weekends & holidays. Come play a round where history, beauty, & quality come together!
1124 State Route 2023
Clifford Township, Pennsylvania 18421
(570) 222-3525
ELK MOUNTAIN SKI RESORT
Just 15 minutes from downtown Forest City, Elk Mountain offers top-tier skiing & riding often compared to Vermont, without the long drive. With a peak elevation of 2,692 ft & a 1,000 ft vertical drop, it features 27 trails & two terrain parks suitable for all skill levels. Five chairlifts provide quick access to groomed runs & challenging moguls across 180 skiable acres.
Elk Mountain averages 5 feet of natural snow each season, complemented by full snowmaking coverage. The welcoming base lodge includes guest services, ski school, rentals, dining, & a ski shop, making it a perfect spot for winter fun without the crowds.
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​Whether you’re a seasoned skier or just starting, Elk Mountain delivers an unforgettable experience. Plus, the stunning mountain views create the perfect backdrop for a day on the slopes.
344 Elk Mountain Road
Union Dale, Pennsylvania 18470
(570) 679-4400
GREATER CARBONDALE YMCA
The YMCA is at the heart of the Greater Forest City Area, offering health & wellness programs for every age group. From enriching child care & engaging fitness classes to Silver Sneakers programs for seniors, the YMCA provides opportunities for the entire community to nurture both mind & body.
When the weather warms up, the YMCA brings its energy outdoors with a variety of programs held both on their grounds & throughout the community. Enjoy access to their expansive outdoor park, where families can play, explore, & stay active together, or take advantage of seasonal favorites like the Kid’s Summer Camp & youth sports.
The YMCA also hosts year-round community events that bring neighbors together in a spirit of fun & connection. Whether you’re looking for a place to exercise, join outdoor activities, or participate in special community gatherings, the YMCA is your destination for healthy living & outdoor adventure in Forest City.
82 N Main Street
Carbondale, Pennsylvania 18407
(570) 282-2210
NEP SNO & ATV/SXS TRAILS
With over 200 miles of scenic trails spanning land owned by more than 200 generous property owners, NEP Sno & ATV/SxS Trails is one of Pennsylvania’s largest and most dynamic trail systems managed by a single organization. Members enjoy access to a vast network of well-groomed, safe, & clearly marked trails perfect for snowmobiles, ATVs, & SxS enthusiasts of all levels.
Annual membership dues open the door to year-round adventure & help support trail maintenance, grooming, & access improvements. During snowy months, members can also explore the popular D&H Rail-Trail, which is open to snowmobiles when winter conditions allow, providing even more variety & excitement.
Along the trails, you'll find friendly restaurants, bars, & shops with convenient parking for your ride. Whether seeking thrilling rides or scenic stops, NEP Sno & ATV/SxS Trails offers an unforgettable outdoor adventure.
1108 Lower North Main Street
Forest City, Pennsylvania 18421
(570) 780-5381
STILLWATER DAM
Located just 3.2 miles north of Forest City in Susquehanna County, Pennsylvania, the Stillwater Dam is an impressive embankment dam on the Lackawanna River, completed in September 1960.
Primarily designed for flood control, the dam’s reservoir is typically kept at low levels to manage water flow effectively. The reservoir’s highest recorded water level was on April 2, 1993, reaching 1,617.85 feet & 88.9% capacity.
Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the dam& lake along the nearby D&H Rail Trail, as well as from Skyline Drive just off Route 171 into Union Dale—making it a perfect spot for nature lovers & photographers alike.​ ​Whether you’re seeking a peaceful nature escape or a place to learn about local engineering history, Stillwater Dam is a must-visit destination in Susquehanna County.
Clifford Township, Pennsylvania 18470
SUSQUEHANNA COUNTY PROMOTION & TOURISM AGENCY
Discover charming villages set amid rolling hills, the perfect gateway to Susquehanna County’s abundant outdoor recreation. From hiking & biking scenic trails to fishing & kayaking along pristine rivers & lakes, the region offers endless opportunities for nature lovers & adventure seekers.
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Explore historic railroads, coal sites, & farmland trails that connect you to the area’s rich heritage while enjoying breathtaking landscapes. After a day outdoors, unwind at local breweries, wineries, & cozy eateries nestled in vibrant downtowns.
Whether you’re planning a retreat or simply a nature-filled getaway, Susquehanna County’s stunning venues & outdoor attractions provide the perfect setting for every season.
31 Lake Avenue
Montrose, Pennsylvania 18801
(570) 278-6614 or (570) 767-4151
OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES
BIKE, WALK, HIKE, & RUN
Forest City is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a rich variety of trails and routes perfect for biking, walking, hiking, and running. Whether you prefer a gentle stroll, a challenging hike, a scenic bike ride, or a vigorous run, these local gems deliver stunning views, fresh air, and peaceful surroundings:
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D&H Rail Trail: This historic 38-mile rail trail runs directly through Forest City and is ideal for cyclists, walkers, and runners alike. Its smooth, mostly flat path winds through forests, meadows, and charming small towns, with plenty of amenities and rest stops along the way.
Skyline Drive: Located near Union Dale, Skyline Drive offers rolling hills and breathtaking panoramic mountain views. It’s a favorite for hikers and trail runners seeking a more challenging terrain, as well as cyclists looking for scenic uphill rides.
Prompton State Park: Just a short drive from Forest City, this park features serene trails around a picturesque lake and through dense woodlands. It’s perfect for peaceful hikes, trail runs, or leisurely bike rides surrounded by nature.
Stillwater Dam Area: Explore walking and running paths near the Stillwater Dam along the Lackawanna River. The peaceful water views and natural setting make it an ideal spot for easy strolls or light jogging.
Local Neighborhoods and Country Roads: Enjoy quiet rides, walks, or runs on Forest City’s streets and the surrounding rural roads. These routes offer a taste of small-town charm, rolling farmland, and unspoiled countryside.
From smooth rail trails to rugged hills and tranquil park paths, Forest City’s outdoor spaces invite you to get moving and soak up the region’s natural beauty all year long.
FISHING & BOATING
Cast on & enjoy some of the finest fishing in Northeastern Pennsylvania! The waterways near Forest City are home to trout, bass, catfish, walleyes, & more—many of which are stocked annually to ensure a thriving fishery. Anglers can fish from shore or float & fish in several public access areas, including sections of the scenic Lackawanna River that winds through the Endless Mountains region. This river is popular for trout fishing & offers peaceful spots perfect for boating, kayaking, or canoeing.
If you need bait, tackle, or fishing supplies, White’s Crossing Sports Shop in nearby Carbondale is a trusted local resource. For fishing license purchases and up-to-date regulations, be sure to visit the Pennsylvania Fish & Boat Commission website.
Please remember that while Forest City & the surrounding region boast many beautiful public fishing waters, some waterways are on private property. The Fish & Boat Commission’s listings do not guarantee public access, so always obtain permission before fishing on private land. Whether you’re casting from the shore or enjoying a day on the water, Forest City offers fantastic opportunities to connect with nature & reel in your next big catch!
WATER SPORTS
When it comes to water sports, Forest City is the perfect place to make a splash! Whether you want to cool off on a hot summer day, seek adventure, or simply unwind surrounded by nature, the region offers a wide variety of aquatic activities for everyone.
Head to the lakes near Forest City to swim, paddleboard, canoe, or kayak—many public & private lakes are scattered throughout the area, each offering scenic beauty and opportunities for both relaxation & excitement.
.If you’re looking for a bit more action, motor boating is welcome on several larger lakes, making it easy to enjoy waterskiing, tubing, or a leisurely cruise. The Lackawanna River is another local favorite, perfect for floating downstream in a kayak or canoe, taking in the lush landscapes of the Endless Mountains region as you go.
Whether you’re an avid paddler, a casual swimmer, or simply want to enjoy the peaceful rhythm of water lapping against your boat, the Greater Forest City Area delivers unforgettable water sports experiences. Grab your gear, gather your friends or family, & discover the refreshing side of Forest City’s great outdoors!
EQUESTRIAN
Forest City is proud to celebrate a vibrant equestrian tradition, offering excellent opportunities for horseback riding & horse enthusiasts. The scenic D&H Rail Trail invites riders to explore over 38 miles of well-maintained paths, with horseback riding allowed & encouraged throughout. The largest & most convenient parking area for horse trailers is at the Forest City Trailhead, making it easy to access & enjoy the trails.
At the heart of the local equestrian scene is Birchtown Stables, a state-of-the-art facility located right in Forest City. This premier venue hosts a variety of events, from competitive horse shows to social gatherings & corporate functions, fostering a welcoming community for riders of all levels. Birchtown Stables combines top-notch amenities with a warm, inviting atmosphere, making it a cornerstone of Forest City’s thriving horse culture.
Whether you’re an experienced rider or simply looking to connect with the equestrian lifestyle, Forest City offers a rich blend of trails, facilities, & community events that celebrate the enduring bond between horse & rider. Saddle up & experience the best of Pennsylvania’s equestrian heritage here in Forest City!
WINTER ACTIVITIES
When the snow falls, the Forest City area transforms into a magical playground for winter enthusiasts! Whether you crave speed, serenity, or the simple joy of fresh powder, you’ll discover plenty of ways to enjoy the great outdoors all season long.
Skiing & Snowboarding: Head to Elk Mountain Ski Resort, nestled in the scenic Endless Mountains, for some of the best skiing and snowboarding in Pennsylvania.
Snowmobiling: Fire up your machines and explore the NEP Sno Trails. Maintained by a dedicated local organization, these trails offer endless adventure for snowmobile lovers.
Snowshoeing & Cross-Country Skiing: For a quieter escape, try snowshoeing at or cross-country skiing on area trails. These peaceful activities let you immerse yourself in the beauty of snow-draped forests & rolling hills.
Enjoy the crisp air and the camaraderie of fellow winter adventurers. From adrenaline-packed slopes to tranquil snowy trails, Forest City’s winter wonderland offers something for everyone. Bundle up, step outside, and make the most of winter in the Endless Mountains!
