Jim Thorpe Day Trip: History, Hiking, and Hidden Gems
If you spend any time in the Poconos, someone is going to tell you to visit Jim Thorpe. And they will be absolutely right. This small borough tucked into the Lehigh Gorge in Carbon County consistently ranks as one of the most charming small towns in Pennsylvania, and once you walk down Broadway for the first time, you will understand why people call it the Switzerland of America.
Jim Thorpe is the kind of place that rewards a slow day. You can hike a world-class gorge trail in the morning, explore a Victorian mansion before lunch, eat at a restaurant that would hold its own in any major city, and finish the afternoon browsing independent shops on a steep, tree-lined main street. It all fits into one incredible day trip, and it is only about 30 to 45 minutes from most Pocono Pads properties.
Our team sends guests to Jim Thorpe more than almost anywhere else in the region. Here is everything you need to know to plan a perfect day there.
How Do You Get to Jim Thorpe from the Poconos?
Jim Thorpe is located in the southern Poconos along the Lehigh River, at the intersection of Routes 209 and 903. From the Camelback Mountain area, the drive takes about 30 minutes heading south on Route 715 to Route 903. From Stroudsburg, it is roughly 35 minutes via Route 209 South.
Parking in Jim Thorpe can be tricky on busy weekends, especially during fall foliage season and holiday weekends. The main lot is behind the train station at the bottom of Broadway, and it fills up quickly. There is additional parking along the streets heading up the hill, and the Mauch Chunk Lake Park lot about two miles outside of town is a good overflow option if you do not mind a short drive or a long walk in.
Our best advice: arrive before 10 AM on weekends, or visit on a weekday if your schedule allows. The town is just as beautiful with fewer people, and you will find parking easily.
What Is the History of Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania?
Jim Thorpe has one of the most unusual backstories of any town in America. Originally called Mauch Chunk, the town was a thriving coal and railroad hub in the 1800s. The wealth that flowed through Mauch Chunk during the coal era built the ornate Victorian mansions and commercial buildings that still line the streets today. The Asa Packer Mansion, built in 1861, is one of the finest examples of Italianate Victorian architecture in the country.
In 1954, the boroughs of Mauch Chunk and East Mauch Chunk merged and renamed themselves Jim Thorpe, after the legendary Olympic athlete. Thorpe himself never lived in the town. His wife, Patricia, negotiated a deal with the struggling boroughs: in exchange for renaming the town after her late husband, the community would receive his remains for burial and the associated tourism it would bring. Jim Thorpe is buried in a memorial on the eastern end of town along Route 903.
It is a strange and fascinating story, and the Jim Thorpe Memorial is worth a visit. The monument features a large statue of Thorpe in his football uniform alongside markers detailing his achievements as an Olympic gold medalist, professional football player, and baseball player.
The Asa Packer Mansion, now a museum open for tours, gives you a glimpse into the extreme wealth of the coal era. Tours typically cost around $10 to $15 per person and run about 45 minutes. The interior has been preserved with original furnishings, and the guides are knowledgeable about both the family and the broader history of the region.
The Old Jail Museum is another historically significant stop. This is where seven members of the Molly Maguires, a secret organization of Irish coal miners, were executed in the 1870s for alleged crimes against mine owners. A mysterious handprint on the wall of cell 17, said to have been left by one of the condemned men, has never been satisfactorily explained or removed despite numerous attempts. Whether you believe the supernatural explanation or not, it is a compelling story and a sobering look at the labor conflicts that shaped Pennsylvania history. Tours are usually around $10 and run on a regular schedule during summer months.
Best Hikes Near Jim Thorpe
The hiking around Jim Thorpe is genuinely world-class, and we are not exaggerating. The Lehigh Gorge and surrounding mountains offer trails that rival anything in the Northeast.
Lehigh Gorge Trail
The Lehigh Gorge State Park trail runs along the former railroad bed beside the Lehigh River, stretching about 26 miles from White Haven down to Jim Thorpe. You do not need to do the whole thing. A popular option is to start at Glen Onoko access point and walk or bike south toward Jim Thorpe, enjoying river views and waterfall side trails along the way.
The trail itself is relatively flat, following the old rail grade, which makes it accessible for a wide range of fitness levels. It is also one of the best mountain biking routes in the Poconos. Several outfitters in Jim Thorpe rent bikes and provide shuttle service to the top of the gorge so you can ride downhill back to town. Expect to pay around $40 to $55 per person for the bike rental and shuttle combo.
Glen Onoko Falls
Glen Onoko Falls deserves special mention. This trail was officially closed by the Pennsylvania Game Commission in 2019 due to safety concerns after multiple injuries and fatalities over the years. As of 2026, the trail remains closed to the public. We mention it because it still appears in many older guides and blog posts, and guests frequently ask about it. Please respect the closure. The Lehigh Gorge Trail nearby offers beautiful scenery without the risk.
Switchback Trail
The Switchback Railroad Trail follows the path of one of the first railroads in America, originally built to transport coal from the mines to the Lehigh River. The trail climbs steeply from Jim Thorpe up to Flagstaff Mountain, offering increasingly dramatic views of the town and the gorge below.
The full out-and-back is about 8 miles with significant elevation gain, making it a moderate to strenuous hike. But you can turn around at any point, and even the first mile provides great views. The trail is well-marked and maintained, and you will often have it largely to yourself even on busy weekends when the Lehigh Gorge Trail is packed.
Mauch Chunk Lake Park
For an easier hike, Mauch Chunk Lake Park offers several miles of trails around the 345-acre lake. The park is well-maintained with a swimming beach, boat rentals, picnic areas, and restrooms. The lakeside trail is flat and family-friendly, making it a good option if you have younger children or prefer a more relaxed pace.
The park charges a small vehicle entry fee, typically $5 to $10. Kayak and canoe rentals are available at the boathouse, and the swimming beach is open from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Where to Eat in Jim Thorpe
Jim Thorpe's food scene has improved dramatically over the past several years, and you now have legitimate reasons to plan your trip around a meal.
Broadway Grille and Pub sits right on the main drag and serves elevated American food in a casual atmosphere. Their burgers are excellent, and the outdoor seating on Broadway is one of the best people-watching spots in town. Expect to spend $15 to $25 per person for lunch.
Moya is a Mediterranean-inspired restaurant that has become one of the top dining destinations in the entire Poconos region. The menu changes seasonally, and the cocktail program is thoughtful and creative. This is a great option for a nicer dinner after a day of hiking. Entrees typically range from $20 to $35.
Flow is a popular spot for craft beer and casual bites, located along the river. The vibe is relaxed and friendly, and it is a perfect stop for a cold beer after a day on the trails.
Muggles' Mug is a cozy coffee shop on Broadway that serves excellent espresso drinks, fresh pastries, and light breakfast items. It is the ideal first stop when you arrive in town in the morning. A coffee and pastry will run you about $6 to $10.
For a sweet treat, Thomas' Mercantile and Confectionery is a throwback candy shop and soda fountain that kids and adults both love. It is the kind of place where you can get a handmade ice cream sundae or a bag of old-fashioned penny candy.
Shopping and Browsing on Broadway
Broadway, the main commercial street in Jim Thorpe, climbs steeply uphill from the train station and is lined with independently owned shops, galleries, and cafes. This is not a strip mall tourist trap. The stores here feel curated and personal, and you will find things you would not find anywhere else.
Some standout shops include:
Jeanette's Jerky and Gems sells a surprisingly compelling combination of homemade beef jerky and locally sourced gemstones and minerals. It is more interesting than it sounds.
The Emporium offers a large selection of vintage items, antiques, and eclectic home decor spread across multiple floors of a historic building.
Lucky's Cigars is a well-stocked cigar shop where you can pick up a quality smoke to enjoy on the porch back at the rental house.
Several art galleries along Broadway feature work by local and regional artists, including paintings, photography, glasswork, and pottery.
The shopping experience in Jim Thorpe is best enjoyed without a plan. Just walk up the hill, duck into whatever catches your eye, and enjoy the architecture along the way. Many of the buildings date to the 1800s and have been beautifully maintained.
Whitewater Rafting and Outdoor Adventures from Jim Thorpe
Jim Thorpe is the hub for whitewater rafting in the Poconos. Several outfitters operate out of the town and launch trips on the Lehigh River. The river offers different experiences depending on water release schedules from the dam.
Dam release days create Class II to Class III rapids and provide a thrilling ride. These are typically scheduled on specific weekends throughout the summer. Non-release days offer a gentler float that is better suited for families with younger children.
Pocono Whitewater Adventure Center is one of the largest outfitters and offers rafting, biking, paintball, and other activities. A half-day rafting trip typically costs between $40 and $65 per person.
Jim Thorpe River Adventures is another reputable outfitter with a location right in town. They offer similar pricing and also rent kayaks and tubes for those who want a more independent experience on the water.
The Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway operates vintage train rides along the river from the Jim Thorpe train station. The 70-minute round trip takes you into the gorge with views of the river, waterfalls, and forested mountainsides. Tickets are around $18 to $22 for adults and $12 to $15 for children. It is a relaxing alternative to hiking or biking for those who want to see the gorge without the physical effort.
Planning Your Jim Thorpe Day Trip: A Sample Itinerary
Here is how we would structure a perfect day in Jim Thorpe:
8:30 AM: Arrive early and park at the lot behind the train station.
9:00 AM: Grab coffee and a pastry at Muggles' Mug on Broadway.
9:30 AM: Drive or bike to the Lehigh Gorge Trail for a morning hike or ride. Allow two to three hours depending on your pace and how far you go.
12:30 PM: Return to town and walk up Broadway. Browse the shops and galleries at your own pace.
1:30 PM: Lunch at Broadway Grille and Pub or Moya.
2:30 PM: Tour the Asa Packer Mansion or the Old Jail Museum.
3:30 PM: Walk to the Jim Thorpe Memorial on Route 903.
4:00 PM: Stop at Thomas' Mercantile for ice cream or candy.
4:30 PM: If time allows, drive out to Mauch Chunk Lake Park for a quick swim or paddle.
6:00 PM: Head back to your Pocono Pads property for dinner and relaxation.
This itinerary works well for couples, families, and groups alike. You can adjust the timing based on your interests. History lovers might spend more time at the museums and less on the trail. Adventure seekers might skip the shopping and add a rafting trip.
Getting Back to Home Base
One of the best things about a Jim Thorpe day trip is that you are back at your Pocono Pads property in time for dinner and an evening by the fire pit. Our Spring Getaway sleeps 16 and is about 40 minutes from Jim Thorpe, giving you a comfortable base with a jacuzzi and fire pit waiting when you return. The Green Monster, also sleeping 16, is similarly positioned near Camelback with its famous indoor slide and bar to keep the evening going.
Jim Thorpe is the kind of place that makes your Poconos trip feel like more than just a mountain getaway. It adds history, culture, food, and adventure to the mix, and it does it all in a setting that looks like it belongs on a postcard.
Start planning your Poconos trip and book direct at poconopads.com. We are always happy to help you build the perfect itinerary around Jim Thorpe and the rest of what these mountains have to offer.
