Things to do nearLehigh River
The Lehigh River in Pennsylvania's Pocono Mountains and Lehigh Valley offers outstanding whitewater rafting, fly fishing, and scenic canyon trails.
The Lehigh River flows roughly 109 miles through Pennsylvania, beginning in the Pocono Mountains and winding south and east through the Lehigh Valley to join the Delaware River at Easton. Its most celebrated stretch runs through Lehigh Gorge State Park, where the river drops steadily through a rugged, forested canyon once central to the region's coal and timber trade.
Whitewater rafting and kayaking define the Lehigh River experience for many visitors. The upper gorge offers Class II and III rapids that challenge beginners and reward experienced paddlers alike, particularly during spring releases from the Francis E. Walter Dam upstream.
Beyond the water, the riverside trail through Lehigh Gorge State Park follows a former railroad bed for miles, making it popular with cyclists and hikers seeking canyon scenery without technical terrain. The historic town of Jim Thorpe anchors the southern end of the gorge, offering Victorian architecture, local restaurants, and easy river access.
The Lehigh River rewards those who take time to explore its varied character, from quiet fishing pools to churning rapids, making it one of Pennsylvania's most compelling natural destinations.
7-day forecast
Chance of rainTips for visiting Lehigh River
Visit in spring when snowmelt swells the Lehigh River and whitewater rapids run at their most thrilling.
Try fly fishing the calmer stretches near Jim Thorpe, where brown and rainbow trout hold in clear, cold pools.
Bring water shoes and a dry bag if you plan to raft the Lehigh Gorge section, as splashing is unavoidable.
Hike the Lehigh Gorge State Park trail along the old railroad grade for flat, accessible views of the river canyon.
Arrive on weekday mornings during peak summer season to avoid crowds at the most popular put-in spots.
Top tours & experiences near Lehigh River
2-Night Camping & Whitewater Rafting In Weatherly
Camp two nights, then raft the Lehigh River with lunch included
Float a 3-Mile Delaware River Tube Rental in Easton
Tube the Delaware River with a 3-mile float and included shuttle for groups 15–29
Float the Delaware River on a 3-Mile Tubing Trip
3-mile Delaware River tubing trip with shuttle and gear for groups of 30+
Guided Inflatable Kayaking on the Lehigh River
Paddle inflatable kayaks through Lehigh River whitewater with a guide