Property Info: Long before Tobyhanna Township acquired the Austin T Blakeslee Natural Area, the site served as a hub of recreational activity, known as Harrison Park. From 1930-1955 the park drew crowds to gather for special events and year-round outdoor/ indoor recreation. During the Flood of 1955, most of the park's facilities suffered severe damage and the park was closed indefinitely. In 2009, funding from the PA Department of Conservation and Natural Resources and the Monroe County Open Space Bond Fund allowed Tobyhanna Township to acquire the 120-acre natural area.
Today, through the collaboration of Tobyhanna and Tunkhannock Townships, public access to this historic recreational site has been fully restored. The Austin T Blakeslee Natural Area features roughly 2.5 miles of moderate hiking trails. The lower trails follow the creek and guide visitors to the hidden Tobyhanna Falls, while the upper trails create small loops featuring scenic overlooks. The property also offers an expansive picnic area with a rustic design, utilizing the foundation of the 1930s skating rink coupled with a beautiful new picnic pavilion. And don't forget there is access to approximately one mile of public trout fishing on Tobyhanna Creek, which is classified as a High-Quality Cold Water Fishery!