Rocks as Far as the Eye Can See: Hickory Run State Park, Part II

Enjoying the Day Out.

Since I was told the boulder field is the main attraction at the park I had to make it my first stop. This wasn't my first trip there, but I believe, it is worth it to explore more than once. The park roads to the main attractions are clearly labeled and are easy to navigate. The drive takes you far from paved roads and gives you a realization of just how large Hickory Run State Park is. The road is a one way loop with lots of little pull offs and trails along the way. Eventually the road comes to a T intersection and strait ahead the road turns back to a two way and dead ends in the boulder field parking lot.

      On this day the lot was full with only one or two spaces left when I pulled in. If you want to come when it isn't crowded I would suggest going on a weekday. The crowds, though, meant people to interview and I did wonder what attracted people to this site. I met Mike Lillo, a New York resident who owns a home in the Poconos. He explained to me that not too long ago he was told about boulder field and he wanted to bring his family out to see it. He explained to me how the field was created by the glaciers which once covered the area. He and his family seemed to be enjoying walking around the rocks and he suggested to me that I go out to the other side and get the perspective of those who make their way all the way across. I took him up on his suggestion. 

     I found myself navigating over the rocks in sandals, which I would not suggest to any of my readers to try. A good pair of shoes or hiking boots would be a much better choice. In the distance I could see a group near the far edge and I decided they were my target. As I got close I was greeted with a welcome from the group. Pictured above they were students from Philadelphia. I joined there group for a little while and taking pictures and asking questions. They were clearly to have fun and most of the answers to my questions were quite humorous, but lacked reportability. They talked about their camping experience and it seemed to me that this was a great getaway for them from city life. I think this will probably be the theme throughout my blog two. The areas along the Lehigh are close, but far enough away from our everyday lives that it is an escape.  

Note: If you want to see the boulder field and want to drive right to it, go in late spring, summer or early fall. The roads to the field are closed after enough accumulation of snow in the winter.

Thanks to:

Julie Hoff, Andy, Mike, Deidre, Jon and Nick who are pictured above.

And to Mike Lillo for the interview.