Sugar Notch PennsylvaniaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Sugar Notch, Pennsylvania.
1. Sugar Notch Trails
SCENIC HIKING & BIKING
The Sugar Notch Trails system features the Ridgetop Trail and Jacqueline Munro Trail, offering varied terrain through woodlands and along Sugar Notch Run. Hikers and cyclists can enjoy dawn-to-dusk access to paths crossing historic railroad bridges and ridgeline vistas.
2. Ridgetop Trail
HISTORIC RAILROAD PATH
This 3.06-mile trail runs along Wilkes-Barre Mountain's ridgeline, connecting Greater Hanover Area Recreation Park to Main Street. It features a preserved railroad bridge and views of Sugar Notch Run.
3. Jacqueline Munro Trail
WOODLAND NATURE PATH
Named for a local conservationist, this trail winds through pristine forests near residential areas. Its moderate difficulty makes it suitable for nature walks and birdwatching.
4. Greater Hanover Area Recreation Park
COMMUNITY SPORTS HUB
Adjacent to Sugar Notch, this park provides athletic fields and connects to the Ridgetop Trail. It serves as a gateway to outdoor activities for both towns.
5. St. Mary's/Holy Family Cemeteries
HISTORICAL BURIAL GROUNDS
These adjoining cemeteries near Main Street mark the western endpoint of the Ridgetop Trail. They contain gravesites spanning Sugar Notch's coal-mining era history.
6. Sugar Notch Run
PRISTINE WOODLAND STREAM
This protected waterway flows through 137 acres of conserved land adjacent to the trails. Its banks provide habitat for local wildlife and serene walking access.
7. Sugar Notch Municipal Building
1921 HISTORIC ARCHITECTURE
Constructed in 1921, this brick building houses borough government offices and reflects early 20th-century civic design. Its enduring presence symbolizes Sugar Notch's mining-town heritage.
8. Roosevelt Memorial
WWII COMMEMORATION SITE
Dedicated in 1946 with Eleanor Roosevelt present, this monument honors local veterans. It remains a focal point for community remembrance events.
9. Lehigh & Susquehanna Railroad Site
COAL TRANSPORTATION HISTORY
Though no longer operational, remnants of this 1869 coal railroad can be explored near the borough. It played a vital role in transporting anthracite during Pennsylvania's industrial peak.
10. Sugar Maple Historical Area
NAMESAKE TREE LOCATIONS
Though specific groves aren't marked, the borough's namesake sugar maples can still be found throughout the area. Autumn brings vibrant foliage displays along residential streets.
11. Hanover Township Community Park
NEIGHBORING RECREATION FACILITIES
Located minutes from Sugar Notch, this park offers additional playgrounds and picnic areas beyond those in the Greater Hanover complex. It's frequently used for local little league games.
12. Anthracite Mining Heritage Trail
COAL REGION HISTORY WALK
While not formally established, self-guided tours can explore Sugar Notch's mining past through historical markers and retired infrastructure. The Ridgetop Trail includes sections following former mining railways.
13. Main Street Historic District
BOROUGH COMMERCIAL CORE
This central thoroughfare features early 20th-century homes mixed with modern businesses. The western end serves as a trailhead for the Ridgetop Trail.
14. Sugar Notch Veterans Memorial
MILITARY SERVICE TRIBUTE
Located near municipal buildings, this memorial honors residents who served in America's conflicts. Annual ceremonies here draw participants from across Luzerne County.
15. Wilkes-Barre Mountain Overlook
VALLEY VISTA POINT
Accessible via the Ridgetop Trail, this elevated position offers sweeping views of the Wyoming Valley. Photographers frequent the spot during fall foliage season.