Lake Wallenpaupack is a reservoir that is the second largest lake contained entirely in the state of Pennsylvania. The Lenape people named the area “Wallenpaupack”, meaning “The stream of swift and slow water”.

The lake, which is 13 miles long and has 52 miles of shoreline, was created in 1924, when the PPL Corporation constructed a dam on the Wallenpaupack Creek, flooding the town of Wilsonville, which is still under water, near the dam. These days, Lake Wallenpaupack is a major recreational destination in the Pocono Mountain region.

Always looking for an opportunity to try something different, I came up with an idea to pedal around the lake. On Thursday, I met Mike at 9am at the Visitor’s Center on Rt. 6 in Hawley. We had a route planned that would hug the lake as much as possible for a complete circumference. With perfect weather and little to no wind, we decided to take advantage of all that Mother Nature was offering.

Starting from the Visitor’s Center, we headed up Rt. 6 and turned left on Purdytown Turnpike. Immediately, the road shot upward and continued that way for several miles. I’m not complaining, because the slow going on the steep gradient, allowed us to take in what I believe to be one of the most beautiful area’s in the Poconos. The views from Purdytown and Lake Shore Drive were outstanding. Another left on Finn Swamp Road put us close to the water, but not for long, as we continued to climb upward and drop down the backside of each short and curvy descent with little to no traffic. After a right turn on Luzerne Wayne Turnpike which runs right into Goose Pond Road and a left on ledgedale Road, we veered little from the lake as we ran right into Lake Wallenpaupack Road (Rt. 507).

For 14 miles this roller coaster road, took us through more than a few lake front communities, past several marinas and many restaurants. As Rt. 507 reaches Rt. 6, a gravel path leads you up on the dam as you pedal high above the water, taking in a breath taking view on the eastern side of the lake. As we arrived back at the Visitor’s Center, I couldn’t help but think how lucky we are to live here. I can’t wait to do this ride again.

What’s playing (what am I listening to while writing or what’s dancing around in my head while riding) – today – Temple of the Dog – Hunger Strike