Tank Hollow Overlook: Stunning Vista Above the Lehigh River Gorge near Mauch Chunk

The Tank Hollow Overlook above a stunning bend in the Lehigh River is a place that has been on our radar to check out for a long time. We finally got the chance to check it out a few weeks ago and it was even more impressive than we expected. Access to the overlook requires a relatively level and very pleasant half mile hike from a state forest road, if the gates to the road are open. If the gates are closed, the hike will require a few mile walk down a pretty state forest road to the pull off point where the trail to the overlook begins. If the gates are closed, the effort would still be well worth it. About 10-15 people were there to check out the late afternoon sun and its illumination of the bright autumn colors. 

If I did not know any better, I would think that the boulders at the overlook were poured concrete, but they are fascinating sedimentary rocks.

I always love seeing trees that are able to grow in places that look so unlikely. The tree also adds even more photogenic appeal to the overlook.

The rocks were exposed when folded over a 60 million period more than 300 million years ago. Just for some perspective, humans have been on earth for only six million years, which gives such a huge perspective on just how small and insignificant we are in the grand scheme of things when it comes to nature. It is such a humbling and incredible thing to think about and being at places like this is just so serene and relaxing. 

Tank Hollow Overlook is also referred to as Buzzard's Point, and the parking area at the head of the State Forest Road is named after this. It is easy to understand why it is referred to as Buzzard's Point, especially in the migration seasons. We saw numerous hawks and vultures, along with a Bald Eagle, flying in the half hour or so we spent just taking in the breathtaking view.

Brit and CeCe taking in the views. The trail is dog friendly, however they must be leashed and cleaned up after. Leave nothing but footprints and take nothing but photos to preserve this place for future generations to visit.

The last few hundred feet of the trail leading to the overlook is located within a thick grove of Rhododendron and Mountain Laurel, with it so thick in places that it practically creates a tunnel at points over the trail. 

Considering that this is State Game Lands, it is wise to wear orange for your safety, especially during hunting seasons. 

All in all, this is a place that is well worth going out of your way to visit. It is one of the most stunning scenic overlooks within the state. 

GPS Coordinates to the State Forest Parking Area (if the gate is closed, this will be your trailhead, if the gate is open, drive about a mile and you will see the trailhead for the overlook on the right. The hike from here is relatively level and is out-and-back, roughly 2 miles out and 2 miles back) 

Buzzard's Point Parking Area, off of Behrens Road 

40.9415, -75.67242

GPS Coordinates to the trailhead for the Tank Hollow Overlook (make sure you put these in AFTER you put the coordinates in for the State Forest Parking area, because otherwise it will take you to a private road that you cannot access the overlook from. If the gates are closed, you will walk the state forest road for roughly a mile to get to the trailhead. It is not well marked so you have to see where the worn trail is. The trail is roughly a half mile each way for a one mile hike total)

40.94566, -75.69188