Nay Aug Park

On the eastern edge of Scranton lies Nay Aug Park—a scenic natural oasis, the oldest public park in the USA, and a point of pride for the region. Its name, derived from Native American roots, translates to "noisy brook," perfectly describing the site's main gem: cascading waterfalls and the rushing Roaring Brook.

The park's standout feature is the majestic Nay Aug Gorge, recognized as a National Natural Landmark. Visitors come here to admire ancient rock formations dating back over 11,000 years and enjoy lush forests that feel like a northern taiga right in the middle of the city landscape.

Beyond its natural wonders, the park offers a rich cultural experience. It is home to the Everhart Museum, a demonstration coal mine, and the unique David Wenzel Treehouse, where you can get a bird's-eye view of the surroundings. This place harmoniously blends historical spirit with the serenity of the wilderness.

To ensure your visit is as comfortable as possible, we recommend saving the administration's contact details and checking seasonal hours for specific attractions. Below is the essential information.

Start your exploration with a stroll along the scenic trails that follow Roaring Brook. Be sure to visit the David Wenzel Treehouse—a unique structure set about 150 feet (46 meters) high, offering stunning views of the gorge and waterfalls. Photos from this vantage point will be a true highlight of your album.

History buffs can visit the Brooks Mine. Tours are held on weekends during the summer, revealing the state's rich industrial past. If you're traveling with family, stop by the Everhart Museum or relax near the Paul Kanjorski Covered Bridge, watching the water flow below.

During the warmer months, the park becomes a hub for outdoor recreation, featuring Olympic-sized swimming pools with waterslides and amusement rides. Grab a bite at the historic Blackwatch Cafe, which retains its early 20th-century charm. In winter, the park is transformed by holiday lights, creating a magical atmosphere for evening walks.

The landmark is located at 500 Arthur Ave, Scranton, PA 18510. Reaching it from downtown is easy: a taxi ride takes just a few minutes, while those who enjoy walking can reach the entrance in 20–30 minutes by heading east.

For those using public transport, bus routes serving stops near Mulberry Street are convenient. From there, it's just a short walk to the main gates. If you're traveling by car, there are several free parking areas within the park, with the most convenient one located at the intersection of Mulberry Street and Arthur Avenue.

The park's history dates back to 1893, initiated by the city's ninth mayor, William L. Connell. Initially, the city purchased only a small plot from the Beckett estate, but the area expanded significantly through donations and acquisitions to become the city's largest green space.

For nearly 70 years, an amusement park managed by the Strohl family thrived here. Although the main rides closed in the 1990s, echoes of that era remain. Interestingly, the famous Brooks Mine, now a tourist site, was built in the early 20th century as a demonstration model of the region's coal mining operations.

The site's natural value was officially recognized in 1989 when Nay Aug Gorge was named a National Natural Landmark. Geologists state that this majestic rock formation was created over 11,500 years ago during the last ice age.

To leisurely explore all the main spots—from the gorge and waterfalls to the treehouse observation deck—you'll need about 3–5 hours. This is enough for a full walk and a visit to the museum or mine.

If you plan a family picnic or want to spend time at the pools, consider staying for the whole day. For those short on time, a quick 1–2 hour walk will allow you to see the main panoramas from the bridge and snap some memorable photos.

Nay Aug Park is open to visitors daily, making it easy to fit into any travel schedule. The main grounds are open during the following hours:

Monday – Sunday: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM.

Please note that the hours for specific attractions, such as the Everhart Museum, the demonstration mine, or the pool complex, may differ from the general park hours and vary by season.

Exploring the area around the park can greatly enrich your trip to Scranton. There are many historical and cultural sites nearby that offer a deeper dive into the atmosphere of Pennsylvania.

In the immediate vicinity of the park trails, you'll find everything from vintage industrial sites to modern family entertainment centers.