Visit Clarks Summit

Clarks Summit is a borough in Lackawanna County, Pennsylvania, United States. The area was initially settled in the late 18th century as a farming community. The town’s name is derived from an early settler named William Clark, who founded the village in 1799. The town continued to grow throughout the 19th century with the arrival of the railroad, which brought coal and other goods to the area.

In the late 1800s, Clarks Summit became a popular resort destination due to its cool mountain air and natural springs, attracting many wealthy families from New York and Philadelphia. The town was home to several grand hotels, including the Waverly House and the Clarendon Hotel, which were visited by many famous people of the time, such as Mark Twain, John D. Rockefeller, and J.P. Morgan.

During World War II, Clarks Summit was home to a large military training center, Camp Tioga, which trained soldiers for combat in Europe. After the war, the town experienced rapid growth and development, becoming a center for commerce and industry.

Today, Clarks Summit is a thriving community with a rich history and a strong sense of community pride. The town’s historic downtown district features many well-preserved buildings from the 19th and early 20th centuries, including the former Lackawanna Railroad Station, which now houses a local history museum.

Clarks Summit offers a range of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy, including:

1. Visit the Heritage Explorer Trail: This trail runs through Clarks Summit and provides a scenic route for walking, jogging, or biking.
2. Explore the town’s history: Visit the Abington Area Historical Society Museum, located in the former Lackawanna Railroad Station, to learn about the town’s history and see exhibits on local industry, railroading, and more.
3. Shop and dine downtown: Clarks Summit’s downtown area is home to a variety of shops and restaurants, offering a range of options for visitors.
4. Attend local events: The town hosts several annual events, including the Clarks Summit Festival of Ice, the Abingtons Fall Festival, and the Abingtons Christmas Tree Lighting.
5. Enjoy the outdoors: Clarks Summit is surrounded by natural beauty, with several parks and trails in the area, including nearby Lackawanna State Park and the Lackawanna River Heritage Trail.
6. Take a day trip: Clarks Summit is located near several other popular destinations in Northeastern Pennsylvania, including the Pocono Mountains and the Steamtown National Historic Site in nearby Scranton.
7. Visit local farms and wineries: Clarks Summit is home to several farms and wineries, offering a range of local produce and wines for visitors to sample and purchase.