Visit Tafton

Tafton is a small unincorporated community in Pike County, Pennsylvania. The community is located on the eastern shore of Lake Wallenpaupack, one of the largest man-made lakes in Pennsylvania. Tafton is home to a number of businesses, including restaurants, marinas, and lodging options, making it a popular destination for visitors to the lake and the surrounding area.

The history of Tafton dates back to the early 1800s when the area was primarily agricultural. The first permanent settlement was established by John and William Ross in 1806. The Ross family built a grist mill along the Paupack Creek, which was used to grind grain into flour. The area around the mill became known as Ross Mills, and later as Paupack Eddy.

In the late 1800s, the area began to develop as a tourist destination, with visitors attracted by the natural beauty of the lake and the surrounding forests. The Tafton Hotel was built in 1884, becoming one of the first lodging options in the area. The hotel was a popular destination for vacationers and sportsmen, who came to fish in the lake and hunt in the nearby woods.

In the early 1900s, the Pennsylvania Power and Light Company (PPL) began construction on the Wallenpaupack hydroelectric power plant on the lake. The project required the flooding of the surrounding area, including the village of Wilsonville. Many of the displaced residents moved to Tafton, which was situated on higher ground and therefore not affected by the flooding. The village of Wilsonville is now submerged beneath the lake.

The construction of the power plant brought jobs and economic growth to the area, as well as a reliable source of electricity. Tafton continued to develop as a tourist destination, with new hotels and resorts catering to visitors to the lake. In the 1930s, the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) built the Promised Land State Park, located just north of Tafton. The park provided additional recreational opportunities for visitors to the area, including hiking, swimming, and camping.

Today, Tafton remains a popular destination for visitors to Lake Wallenpaupack and the surrounding area. The lake offers a range of recreational activities, including boating, fishing, and swimming. The surrounding forests provide opportunities for hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing. The area is also home to a number of golf courses, restaurants, and shops.

One of the main attractions in Tafton is the Lake Wallenpaupack Visitors Center, located at the PPL Wallenpaupack Environmental Learning Center. The center offers exhibits on the history and ecology of the lake, as well as information on recreational activities and events in the area. The nearby Lacawac Sanctuary and Biological Field Station provides opportunities for birdwatching and environmental education.

In addition to outdoor activities, Tafton is home to a number of cultural events and festivals throughout the year. The Lake Wallenpaupack Antique and Classic Boat Show, held each June, features a display of vintage boats on the lake. The Wally Lake Fest, held in August, includes live music, food vendors, and a variety of activities on and around the lake.

Overall, Tafton offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty, outdoor recreation, and cultural events. Whether you’re looking to fish in the lake, hike in the forest, or simply relax and enjoy the scenery, Tafton has something to offer.

Tafton, Pennsylvania is a small unincorporated community located in Pike County. Although it is a small community, there are still plenty of things to see and do in the area.

One of the main attractions in Tafton is Lake Wallenpaupack. Visitors can rent boats, go fishing, and even go parasailing on the lake. The lake is also a great spot for swimming and sunbathing in the summer. There are several public access areas around the lake, including the Wilsonville Recreation Area, which has picnic tables, grills, and a playground.

Another popular attraction in Tafton is the Wallenpaupack Visitors Center. This center has a wealth of information about the local area, including maps, brochures, and information about upcoming events. There are also interactive exhibits about the history of the lake and the surrounding area.

For those who enjoy hiking and outdoor activities, the Promised Land State Park is just a short drive from Tafton. This park has over 3,000 acres of land with trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. Visitors can also enjoy boating, swimming, and fishing on two lakes within the park.

In the winter, visitors to Tafton can enjoy skiing and snowboarding at the nearby Ski Big Bear. This family-friendly ski resort has over 18 trails for all skill levels and offers lessons and equipment rentals.

For those who enjoy shopping and dining, there are several options in Tafton and the surrounding area. The Lake Region IGA supermarket is a great place to stock up on groceries and supplies, while the Wallenpaupack Brewing Company offers a variety of craft beers and pub food. The Boathouse Restaurant is another popular spot for seafood and American cuisine, and the Glass Wine Bar & Bistro is a great spot for a romantic dinner.

Overall, Tafton is a great destination for those who enjoy outdoor activities, scenic views, and a laid-back atmosphere.