Planning on for some new weekend explorations and searching for a small, isolated natural beauty for digital detoxing? Well, at least I would! The digital life gets too much of us and I definitely want to dedicate my weekend to digital detox. While searching for such places, I fumbled upon this quaint beauty, White Haven!
Earlier known as the linker in the coal transportation network, this little heart throb of the Poconos Mountains is now the stop in hiking / biking journey of the Lehigh Gorge Trail. I was left awestruck with the beauty of this place when I visited this serene little town with my family for our weekend getaway.
Though a small town, tourists searching for things to do in White Haven PA are never left disappointed! With luxurious vacation rentals to laze around after ticking off an enormous list of activities, this place is perfect for your next cozy weekend getaway for both nature lovers and adventure seekers.
A Trip Down the Memory Lane
Built by Josiah White in 1824 along the Lehigh River, White Haven is a small picturesque town. Established for coal transportation, by 1840 this place saw the enormous demand for lumber which led to the opening of 3 dozen sawmills in the Lehigh River area in the first year of which four were in White Haven. Slowly, this place gained the title of borough in Luzerne county in 1842.
With a microscopic number of people inhabiting the area, it remains humanly unaltered majorly giving the undisturbed nature vibes. The upcoming numbers of premium vacation rentals which provide the homely feel to someone leaving their home behind while traversing the mountains, makes the place more alluring for the weekend getaway.
Ways to Unwind in White Haven
Visiting this quintessential town, portraying the perfect blend of cultural richness with natural beauty in a small knit community, was one of the perfect decisions I took while exploring the Poconos.
Since I had visited this gem in December, I had packed some warm clothes for the trip. One can enjoy some extreme ends of climate here with the maximum temperature going as high as 81°F in summers and as low as 14°F in winters. One can always look at the weather forecast before leaving for the place, because hey, google helps!
Let’s get to our main goal of visiting this place, i.e., recreational activities. While you are searching for things to do near White Haven in PA, thinking it’s a small town and may not have much to offer. Well, hold your horses, this town is packed with some really good adventure activities and nature spots for soothing every urban burnt soul out there!
Embrace the Nature
Before jumping onto the adventure activities, let’s cook some marshmallows in a bonfire made from twigs collected from nearby green areas.
Lehigh Gorge State Park
Be mesmerized with the breathtaking views from every turn of the D&L trails in the park. The native fauna and flora along with serene surroundings are the perfect icing on the cake for every wildlife enthusiast. Apart from spectacular views, this park also gives adventurers a taste of the much needed thrill they are seeking out. From whitewater rafting adventures to biking the gorge, this park has it all.
I explored both the sides of the park, replenishing my soul with nature and energizing it with adventures!
Hickory Run State Park
Ever heard of the National Natural Landmark in Pennsylvania? Yeah, I was also searching for the same. The unique feature of this park is the 16 acre boulder field located in the northeast corner of the park. With waterfalls, chestnut oak trees and hiking trails, this park is on the highest priority for every hiker in the area.
Francis E. Walter Dam
This is one of the main attractions for people of all verticals involved in kayaking and doing other water sports. Built by US Army Corps of Engineers, this 80 acre reservoir is now used for various recreational activities apart from its constructional purpose of preventing flooding.
Feel the Thrill
For every adrenaline rush lover, this place is a heaven for you. I thoroughly enjoy exploring the adventure side of this place. I had made a list of things to do in White Haven, which more or less consisted of all the adventure kicks I could get from here. I’ll share the best of many.
Hike/ Bike
Step out and explore the beautiful landscape of white Haven that offers beautiful trails for hiking and biking, or just stroll through the meadows and get enticed by beautiful waterfalls. Here are some of the best hike and bike trails in White Haven.
- Orchard Trail
- Fireline Trail
- Sand Spring Trail
- Shades of Death Trail
Fishing
Do you wish to bond over with someone new? Well, what’s better than going fishing together in Poconos or White Haven. While you put on bait and wait for fish to catch it, you can have the time to get to know the other person while relaxing near the tranquil water spots. Some of the native fishes found here include pike, pickerel, large and smallmouth bass, catfish, perch, sunfish, and crappies
- Francis E Walter Dam
- Nescopeck State Park
- Evening Hatch Fly Shop
Water Adventure
Cool off in the summer and get inspired to go out and into the waters of White Haven. Enjoy the splashing of water while you row in between the turbulent water streams. Kayaking your way out or canoeing in calm waters, you can always go with what makes you happy.
- Francis E Walter Dam
- Whitewater Challenger
- Yeti Watersports
Golfing
In a true sense, White Haven is a true heaven for golfers that offers several beautiful yet challenging golf courses. You can bring your family and friends to enjoy some tee time together. Below are some of the golf courses available in White Haven.
- Jack Frost National Golf Club
- Stone Meadow Golf Club
- Mountain Laurel Golf Club
Be the Local For a Day
Go on a shopping spree and enjoy the retail therapy. Shop for souvenirs from the local retailers like Timberline Ski Shop or participate in the local events which will be soon organized across the town.
Some of the upcoming events are:
- Live Band at E2000 – Who Knows Jan 27,2024
- Topsy Turvy Day Feb, 03, 2024
- Live Band at E2000 – Leighann & Company Feb, 03, 2024
- Live Band at E2000 – Kartune Mar 02, 2024
Local Fine Dines
Food is at the center of the vacation destinations, and White Haven is no exception. Being a foodie, trying different cuisines was my preferred way of looking out for restaurants. Here are some of the best restaurants wherein you can taste the delicacies of local culture.
- Four Fella Bar & Grill
- White Haven Family Diner
- Powerhouse Eatery
- Renee’s Cold Cut Hut
- Capone’s Bar & Grill
Where To Stay?
Gone are the days when vacationers relied on hotels. Now, most vacation destinations offer a true home away from home in the form of vacation rental homes, which provides all necessary amenities required for vacation stays. Some of the types of vacation rentals available in White Haven are:-
- Lakefront Villa
- Beachfront cabins
- Wooded cabins
- Mansions
- Condos
- Cottages
HolidayKeepers provide some of the most premium vacation rentals near White Haven. Do book the best out of all while making plans for your weekend getaway.
Take Away
Yeah, I know it’s too much information for you, but hey, at least now you don’t have to search for things to do in White Haven PA in winter. Read the blog with ease and cherry pick the relevant information for you. Sip on your sundowner and book the best luxurious holiday home you find on HolidayKeepers, so that you can cherish life away from the gadgets.
Be at ease and trust us with the best holiday home for your trip. Contact us for any queries.
Paul P, Senior Editor and Travel Planner at HolidayKeepers, brings over 10 years of experience from New York. He expertly combines storytelling with extensive knowledge in travel and hospitality. Known for turning vibrant travel experiences into engaging articles, Paul covers everything from hidden gems to the latest in vacation rentals, resonating with adventurers and leisure-seekers alike.
