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In the heart of Pennsylvania’s Pocono Mountains, Lake Ariel stands as a serene and inviting destination for adventure seekers, wellness enthusiasts, and families alike. This tranquil lake, surrounded by the natural beauty of the region, offers a plethora of activities to engage all kinds of travelers. For those who crave interaction with nature, the nearby Lacawac Sanctuary is a must-visit, featuring a pristine 52-acre glacial lake and untouched wildlife areas.
Adventure travelers can find excitement at Claws ‘N’ Paws Wild Animal Park, where they can get up close with native and exotic animals. Families will delight in the petting zoo at Maple Hill Farms, though it is currently closed for construction and will reopen in the fall. Historical landmarks such as the Thomas A. Snook VFW Post 6520 Veterans Memorial and the Coachman’s Cottage provide a glimpse into the area’s rich past.
For those seeking relaxation, a lazy afternoon at Deer Beach or a stroll along the lakeside of Blueberry Lake or Brooks Lake is perfect. The Sculpted Ice Works Factory and Ice Harvest Museum offers an intriguing look at ice harvesting and sculpture, adding a unique cultural dimension to your visit. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, historical insights, or family-friendly fun, Lake Ariel and its surroundings offer an enriching and memorable travel experience.
- Surface area (mi)
- 0.81
- Max depth (ft)
- 100
- Elevation (ft)
- 1440.29
- Shoreline length (mi)
- 5
Ideal for
- Family friendly:
- Pet friendly:
- Romantic getaways:
Popular activities
- Fishing
- Kayaking
- Canoeing
- Boating
- Cross-country Skiing
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Where to stay
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Lake Ariel has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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Yes, there are designated swimming areas in Lake Ariel. The Hideout, a property owners association, has two designated swimming areas and a main marina area where swimming is allowed only when a lifeguard is on duty. No food, beverages, or smoking are permitted within the pool and beach areas.
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Lake Ariel is a popular destination because of its natural attractions and outdoor activities. It features places like Claws ‘N’ Paws Wild Animal Park, Lacawac Sanctuary with its pristine glacial lake, and several lakes such as Blueberry Lake and Brooks Lake where visitors can enjoy nature and water activities.
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In Lake Ariel, Pennsylvania, bass fishing has specific regulations: From April 18 to June 12, there is no harvest of bass. During this period, anglers must immediately return any caught bass to the water. From January 1 to April 17 and November 1 to December 31, the limit is 2 bass at 15 inches or larger, and from June 13 to October 31, the limit is 3 bass at 12 inches or larger.
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There are no public beaches at Lake Ariel, but there are beaches within private communities. For example, the Hideout, a gated community, has two private beaches available for its residents and members.
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Towns near Lake Ariel include Carbondale, Dunmore, Scranton, and Honesdale. These towns are located within Wayne County and the surrounding areas in northeastern Pennsylvania. Lake Ariel is also close to other smaller towns like Hamlin and Hawley, which are part of the Pocono Mountain region.
