By Pat Kobela, Guest Blogger
Bear Creek Preserve, located on Route 115 approximately seven miles past the Wilkes-Barre Exchange of the Pennsylvania Turnpike, is a quick reach for day hikers. With easy access the green and yellow trails, are accessible off the main parking lot. One of the only major climbs is out of the parking lot and up to the Preserve Building.
Well-marked, one can begin on the yellow/green trail together just past the Preserve Building. This is a relatively wet trail, so come prepared with proper footwear. Shortly after traveling into the woods, the yellow trail veers off onto its own one-mile loop. Whether you decide to make a right or left at this crossroad, the trail will bring you back to this same point.
To stay on the green trail, continue straight and eventually arrive at a creek crossing. A bridge and small bench await you to enjoy the scenery and noise of the waterfall below. Cross the bridge and continue on to a “Waterfall” sign. A short detour takes you below where you just were; stop for a photo opportunity and drink for the dog. Continue on the main green trail, eventually merging with the red and yellow trail again and back to the main parking lot. In total a three-mile easy hike. By completing the yellow trail loop adds another mile for a total of four miles.