Ever thought of aimlessly wandering in the Poconos and hitting a jackpot in terms of area? Are you thinking why am I saying such things? Recently I did the same. Just put your siri and maps to off after you enter Poconos and keep walking or driving till you find the area which matches your vibe.
One such area for me was Austin T Blakeslee Natural area. It’s a quaint town located just off Route 115 near Blakeslee. This 130 acre area is a preserved area providing open space to a community where life can be nurtured while rejuvenating in leisure activities like fishing, hiking or watching Poconos Racing.
History of Blakeslee Natural Area
Earlier known as Harrison park and later as Toby Park, this area was an entertainment spot for the whole community till it got drowned in floods of 1955. Now, only the remains of the roller rink, swimming pools, penny arcade, steam operated carousel and softball fields can be seen as low walls of the dilapidated structures.
Today, this area is nothing less than a tranquil place meant for rejuvenating a tired soul because of urban monotonous life. It was named after one of the most adorned community members, Jacob Blakeslee Jr., who was a farmer, a conservationist and the first ever postmaster, appointed in 1883.
Geographical Overview
If you go by the area of the Austin T Blakeslee natural area map, then it’s more or less around 130 acres encompassing a mystic deciduous forest mixed with oak, beech, maple, birch and pine trees. One can always find some of the wildflowers like winter flowers of skunk cabbage. On walking a bit more, one can come across some of the native faunas like red squirrel, gray squirrel, deer mice, white tail deer and many more.
The ascending of deciduous forest into conifer forest is what makes it different from the rest of the places. The majestic trees covered by a thin layer of snow, surrounded by the tall rhododendrons and native wildlife is a sight to behold. The magnificent mountains and dense swamps make the place more alive with their natural beauty.
How to Get to Austin T Blakeslee Natural Area?
Embark on your adventurous journey to Blakeslee and put the GPS coordinates as 41º 4’ 59”N 75º 35’ 4” W for Austin T Blakeslee Natural Area while driving. It is located near Blakeslee and reachable through Route 80 (exit at 284) to Route 115 North.
Things to do in Austin T Blakeslee Natural Area
Engage yourself with some of the best leisure activities available in this quaint town. Enjoy nature at its best while not giving up on the rejuvenation of the soul. One can always find some of the best recreational activities of Poconos in this region.
1. Go Hiking
This area is blessed with three main trails mainly, Red, Blue and Orange. The Red-Blazed creek trail is the toughest trail with a 2.3 mile loop leading to Tobyhanna Waterfalls. The Highland Creek trail treads through deciduous forest just above the creeks and is a mile long. The Pine trail is the shortest trail with a quick half-mile loop.
| Trail Name | Distance (in Miles) | Level | Time (in mins) | Elevation (in Ft.) |
| Pine Trail (Orange Blazed Trail) | 0.5 | Easy | 18 | 68 |
| Highland Creek (Blue Blazed Trail) | 1 | Moderate | 47 | 127 |
| Red Blazed Creek Trail | 2.3 | Difficult | 51 | 147 |
2. Trout Fishing
Have you tried going for Austin T Blakeslee natural area fishing ? If not, do give it a try. The area for fishing runs along over a mile of Tobyhanna Creek that’s a popular spot for trout fishing. The region is also open to fly-fishing throughout the year. However, you need to have a valid Pennsylvania fishing license to fish in these waters.
One can catch various fishes apart from brown and brook trout such as smallmouth, largemouth and striped bass, crappie, channel, steelhead and flathead catfish.
3. Go Picnicking
Enjoy the weekend with your family and kids while picnicking in a serene area near Tobyhanna Creek. One will be able to find an info kiosk and a pavilion covered with picnic tables and BBQs towards the end of the trails to make the hiking worth it.
However, motorized vehicles including the ATVs are not allowed in the area. So, one needs to travel on foot to picnic in such spots. The natural beauty will leave you spellbound for sure.
4. Enjoy the Waterfall
While hiking on Austin T Blakeslee natural trail area, one may come across the Tobyhanna waterfall after completing the toughest trail of the area, i.e., the Red Blazed Creek Trail. Sit near the waterfall and enjoy the tranquility of water. The frothy water will relax you like no other after an arduous task of hiking.
Rules and Regulations
When you are visiting the Austin T Blakeslee area which is accessible from dusk to dawn to everyone, you need to keep in mind some of the rules and regulations the government has asked all the travelers to follow.
- Dogs should be controlled and on leash.
- Follow poop scoop laws if you are taking your furry friends with you.
- Don’t litter.
- No motorized vehicles are permitted within the park.
- No alcoholic beverages are allowed.
- No fires.
- Hunting of wildlife isn’t allowed
- Swimming is prohibited.
- Seasonal fishing is permitted only with a valid fishing license.
Places to Explore Near Austin T Blakeslee Natural Area
While planning your vacation to Austin T Blakeslee, do visit the nearby areas famous for various activities.
1. Jack Frost Ski Resort
Enjoy skiing on one of the finest skiing slopes in Poconos while staying in premium vacation rentals. Skiers can select their time of skiing as this resort offers night skiing too, so, ski under the night sky with lights twinkling illumination your path.
2. Pocono Raceway
Experience the first hand thrill of watching the racing at the Tricky Triangle or the Poconos Raceway, owned by NASCAR.
3. Tobyhanna Falls
Considered as the crown jewel of Austin T Blakeslee, this magnificent waterfall is formed by large boulders giving it a look of cascading water. One can rewind peacefully while sitting near this tranquil waterfall.
4. Camelback Ski Resort
For all the thrill seekers, Camelback Ski Resort has a more than forty lane snow tubing park and the tallest peak for skiing in the Pocono Mountains.
Conclusion
Spend one of your weekends in this pristine area and rejuvenate your tired soul while staying in nature’s lap. The energy of nature will surely leave you more lively. Amp up your vacationing experience with luxury vacation rentals by HolidayKeepers. They are equipped with world class amenities that will make your stay comfortable and easy. Book yours now and contact us for more information.
