Visit Palmerton

Palmerton is a borough located in Carbon County, Pennsylvania. It was founded in the late 1800s as a company town for the New Jersey Zinc Company, which operated a zinc smelting plant in the area. Today, Palmerton is a small town with a population of just over 5,000 people.

One of the notable features of Palmerton is the Palmerton Zinc Pile, a massive pile of zinc waste that stands over 100 feet tall and covers over 70 acres. The pile was created as a byproduct of the zinc smelting process and has been the subject of environmental concerns and cleanup efforts.

Despite its industrial history, Palmerton is also home to a number of natural attractions, including the nearby Blue Mountain, which offers hiking and other outdoor recreational activities. The nearby Lehigh River also provides opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and other water sports.

In addition, Palmerton is home to the Palmerton Area Library, which offers a variety of programs and events for the community, as well as the Palmerton Heritage Center, which houses exhibits on the history of the town and its industrial heritage.

Overall, Palmerton offers a unique blend of industrial history and natural beauty, making it an interesting destination for visitors to Carbon County.

While Palmerton is a small town, there are still a number of things to see and do when visiting the area. Here are a few suggestions:

1. Visit the Palmerton Heritage Center: This museum houses exhibits on the history of the town, including its industrial heritage and the role of the New Jersey Zinc Company in shaping the community.
2. Explore the Palmerton Zinc Pile: While the pile itself is not open to the public, visitors can view it from nearby hills and hiking trails. The Zinc Pile has become a symbol of environmental damage and a testament to the efforts of those working to clean up the site.
3. Hike in Blue Mountain: The nearby Blue Mountain offers miles of hiking trails, ranging from easy to challenging. The Appalachian Trail also runs through the area, providing access to some of the best views in the region.
4. Go fishing: The Lehigh River, which runs through the area, is a popular spot for fishing. Visitors can try their luck for trout, bass, and other species.
5. Take a scenic drive: The countryside around Palmerton is picturesque, with rolling hills and farmland. Visitors can take a scenic drive through the area, stopping at local farms and roadside stands for fresh produce and other treats.
6. Visit the Palmerton Area Library: The library offers a variety of programs and events for visitors of all ages, including storytimes, book clubs, and craft activities.
7. Attend a local festival: Palmerton hosts a number of festivals throughout the year, including the Palmerton Community Festival and the Carbon County Oktoberfest.
8. Play golf: The Blue Ridge Country Club offers a challenging 18-hole golf course that is open to the public.

These are just a few of the things to see and do when visiting Palmerton, Pennsylvania.