Attractions and Places To See around Bear Creek Village - Top 5

Bear Creek Village is rich in history, centered around its designated Historic District. You can visit the Bear Creek Village Historic District itself, which showcases the area's evolution from an industrial town to a resort. Within the district, notable sites include Grace Chapel (1884), the Lewis Family Cemetery with monuments designed by Tiffany Studios, the former St. Elizabeth's Catholic Chapel, and the relocated Lehigh Valley Railroad Station. The historic Bear Creek Dam and its artificial lake, crucial to the area's past industries, are also part of this heritage.

For nature and wildlife, the Natural Lands' Bear Creek Preserve is a must-visit. This nearly 4,000-acre preserve features woodlands and stream valleys, providing habitat for diverse wildlife including black bears, gray foxes, and the endangered Northern flying squirrel. It's also a haven for various bird species. Additionally, Pinchot State Forest offers extensive natural landscapes for exploration.

Yes, you can visit Buttermilk Falls, a stunning waterfall that cascades 35 feet down the mountain. It's a rewarding sight after a hike and is particularly beautiful in the spring after rain. There's also a small dirt road pull-off area along White Haven Road for easier access.

The Seven Tubs Recreation Area is known for its unique glacially carved pools in the rocks, where Wheelbarrow Run flows across them. These 'tubs' create inviting spots and beautiful scenery, making it a distinctive natural attraction.

The region offers a wide range of outdoor activities. You can enjoy hiking, biking, camping, fishing, and hunting in Pinchot State Forest. The Frances E. Walter Dam provides views over the river and reservoir, with access for kayaking and canoeing. For specific routes, you can find various hiking trails and road cycling routes in the area.

Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. The Natural Lands' Bear Creek Preserve and Pinchot State Forest both offer trails and natural environments that are generally family-friendly. The Frances E. Walter Dam Viewpoint is also a good spot for families to enjoy scenic views.

Yes, both the Natural Lands' Bear Creek Preserve and Pinchot State Forest are noted as dog-friendly, offering plenty of space for you and your canine companion to explore the trails and natural surroundings.

You'll find a variety of hiking trails, from easy to challenging. For example, the easy hikes around Bear Creek Village include routes like the Bear Creek Preserve Red Loop Trail and the Seven Tubs Main Loop. More moderate options, such as the Bear Creek Preserve Red, Green, and Gray Loop Trail, are also available for those seeking a longer adventure. Many trails wind through peaceful woodlands, past streams, and to hidden waterfalls.

While many attractions are enjoyable year-round, visiting in the spring after rain is particularly recommended for seeing Buttermilk Falls at its most impressive. Generally, spring and fall offer pleasant weather for hiking and exploring the natural beauty of the preserves and forests.

Yes, the reservoir at the Frances E. Walter Dam provides access for kayaking and canoeing. It's a great spot to get out on the water and enjoy the scenic views from a different perspective.

Visitors frequently appreciate the blend of historical charm and natural beauty. The serene woodlands and stream valleys of the Natural Lands' Bear Creek Preserve are highly valued for their wildlife and peaceful trails. The unique geological formations at Seven Tubs Recreation Area and the impressive Buttermilk Falls are also popular highlights for their scenic beauty.