Best Hiking Trails in Presque Isle State Park
Many of the hiking trails in Presque Isle State Park follow the line of Lake Eerie, or the smaller ponds and lagoons which make up much of the peninsula. Enjoy the scenic views but be careful as some of the pools can flood at certian times of the year.
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1. Long Pond Trail
This one-mile trail takes you along the shore of Long Pond and offers spectacular views across the lagoon.
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2. Gull Point Trail
Take a hike through the Gull Point Natiral Area following this 1.5-mile hiking route across the sands. Look out for some of the water birds which make their homes here.
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3. Dead Pond Trail
A slightly more challenging two-mile hike up and down sand dunes and through wooded areas with oak and pine trees.
Best Family Activities in Presque Isle State Park
Kids of all ages will love the chance to enjoy water sports and swimming at Presque Isle State Park. After a day of messing about on the water you can head back to your Presque Isle State Park hotels to get some well-earned rest.
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1. Boating
You can hire kayaks, canoes and even small motor boats if you want to explore the lagoons and lake of Presque Isle State Park for yourself, or you can take a trip on one of the scenic boat tours which takes in Lake Eerie and the Pennsylvania waterfront.
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2. Swimming at Presque Isle
In the summer months, the waters of Presque Isle State Park are ideal for swimming. There are several beaches, including the wheelchair-accessible Waterworks Beach and Budny Beach, where older children can have a go at surfing from the aptly-named Sunset Point.
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3. Wildlife watching
Presque Isle State Park is home to hundreds of species of plants, animals and birds. Take your own binoculars so that the family can birdwatch from the comfort of Presque Isle State Park cabins or take one fo the guided nature walks with a local ranger.
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4. Winter sports
The park is also popular with visitors in the winter months, when many of the summer hiking trails become suitable for cross-country skiing. When the weather is cold enough you can even enjoy the unique experience of ice skating on frozen ponds in Presque Isle State Park.