The Most Romantic Valentine’s Day Hike You’ll Find in Pennsylvania

Winter offers so much promise for romantic moments – from holding mitten-clad hands with our love to sipping our favorite hot drink as we stroll through the quiet of nature, maybe as light snow falls or icicles sparkle under the cold, golden sun. Undeniably the most romantic day of the year, Valentine's Day offers the perfect excuse to turn off our phones, clear our calendars, and escape to the quiet of nature, even for just a little bit. Even if your itinerary is set for Valentine's Day, squeeze in around a half-hour for a journey along this romantic hiking trail in Pennsylvania.

With cascading waterfalls, stone stairs, and wooden footbridges, the Sawmill Trail in Beltzville State Park in Lehighton could easily be mistaken for a scene in a fairy tale. Every step promises even more natural beauty, and despite the trail's popularity, you likely won't run into many others on a cold day in February.

The 1.7-mile trail doesn't require much time. If you're not in a hurry, take the time to stop and admire the natural beauty, including majestic ice and chiseled rock formations, that offers plenty of opportunities for selfies and photos. However, the waterfall trail is not without challenges.

Good hiking shoes are necessary as the trail may be slippery, especially in the winter, and the path narrows in some sections. Be prepared for several steep climbs, but they're simple enough to earn the trail an easy rating. On the upside, the Sawmill Trail is well-maintained and kid-friendly, making it a fun Valentine's Day adventure if you're celebrating with the whole family.

Watch your step because, as is common with trails in Pennsylvania, you'll run across some rocky patches and roots sticking out of the ground. The minimal challenges are worth it to experience the sheer beauty, from large icicles dangling from massive rocks and ice floating in a creek to snow-capped trees and tumbling waterfalls framed by fresh snow.

A trek along the Sawmill Trail is just the start of your winter adventure. If you have time, explore more on snowshoes or cross-country skis (if there's snow on the ground). Ice fishing and iceboating are popular when conditions permit. If it's not too cold, one of my favorite ways to make the most of a winter day outdoors is to pack a snack and a hot drink, grab a picnic table, and enjoy the views. Picnic tables and several pavilions dot Beltzville State Park.

Open year-round, the park offers a full menu of activities, including wildlife watching, boating, fishing, and mountain bike riding. Pack your swimming gear in the summer and lounge on the sandy beach. Despite its many amenities, Beltzville State Park does not allow camping.

Learn more on the official website of Beltzville State Park, or stop by the Facebook page of this Pennsylvania state park.

What do you think is the most romantic hiking trail in Pennsylvania? Let us know by filling out a nomination form. For more romantic hiking trails in Pennsylvania, check out AllTrails+.

After hiking the Sawmill Trail, stroll along the yellow brick road at Country Junction, the largest general store in Pennsylvania, where you can play old-school arcade games, indulge in decadent homemade fudge to celebrate Valentine's Day, and browse the large selection of goodies. Or discover something completely new using our Travel Planner!