Pike County, Pennsylvania is a scenic and historically rich region tucked into the northeastern corner of the state. Here's a snapshot of what makes it unique:
đź“Ť Geography & Location
- Borders New York and New Jersey, making it the only Pennsylvania county to touch both states
- Nestled along the Delaware River, with rolling hills rising into the Pocono Mountains
- Home to natural gems like Lake Wallenpaupack, Shohola Lake, and Bushkill Creek
🏛️ History & Heritage
- Established in 1814, named after explorer Zebulon Pike
- The longtime original inhabitants were the Lenape Native Americans, known by the English colonists as the Delaware Indians because their territory was along the Delaware River (as named by the colonists), as well as the coastal mid-Atlantic area.
- The county seat, Milford, was settled in 1733 and features over 300 historic buildings
- Once a hub for coal transport via the Delaware and Hudson Canal, including Roebling’s Delaware Aqueduct—possibly the oldest suspension bridge in America
🌲 Nature & Conservation
- Nearly half the county is protected land: state forests, game lands, and national parks
- Includes parts of the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area and Promised Land State Park
- Known for waterfalls like Raymondskill Falls (tallest in PA) and Dingmans Falls
🎨 Arts & Culture
- Hosts the Black Bear Film Festival, Milford Music Festival, and Opera in the Park
- Home to the Columns Museum (with the Lincoln Flag) and the Zane Grey Museum
🏡 Lifestyle & Community
- Offers affordable housing and lower taxes compared to neighboring states
- Popular with commuters to NYC via Interstate 80 and 84
- Features charming towns, private lake communities, and outdoor recreation year-round—from hiking and eagle watching to skiing and tubing