Cowanesque Lake Recreation Area

Explore the scenic beauty of Cowanesque Lake Recreation Area in Lawrenceville, PA, a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers project designed to mitigate flood risks. This area offers diverse hiking trails for all skill levels, from the easy, 0.2-mile North Overlook Trail with its panoramic lake views and historical insights to the peaceful, 0.3-mile Nelson Falls Trail featuring a charming 5-foot waterfall. Remember to prioritize safety, especially around the falls, and always clean up after your leashed canine companions. Ample parking is available for most trails, making it a convenient destination for a quick nature escape.

For a longer adventure, tackle the 8-mile Moccasin Trail in Elkland, PA, which combines portions of the historic Moccasin Trail and the Mid State Trail (MST). This trail offers stunning views of Cowanesque Lake and surrounding hills as it winds through varied landscapes, including lake shores and marshy areas crossed by wooden bridges. While generally considered easy, be mindful of a potentially washed-out creek bed near the eastern trailhead, especially during wetter seasons. Alternatively, the South Overlook Trail provides a brief, 0.1-mile walk to a defunct parking lot, offering a glimpse into the park's evolving history, though with limited views.