United States

Clarks Summit

Clarks Summit

Clarks Summit is a charming borough located in Lackawanna County, Pennsylvania, United States. Situated in the scenic Endless Mountains reg…

Best for you if…

  • A 4–5 day trip
  • Hiking travelers
  • Sightseeing travelers
  • Visiting in Summer
Recommended stay
3-5 days
Best time
Summer
Walkability
Moderate
Guide depth
Solid guide
More about this guide

Clarks Summit is a strong pick for hiking & sightseeing — plan about 3-5 days. Peak season: Summer.

Solid guide guide · about 4 min to read · depth score 68/100 (coverage of intro, tips, and mapped places)

Moderate density — A mix of walkable clusters with some longer hops. (≈4 km span)

5 Places to explore
3-5 Recommended days
Summer Best season
8 Nearby places

Find nearby destinations

When to go

High season: Summer

JAN
FEB
MAR
APR
MAY
JUN
JUL
AUG
SEP
OCT
NOV
DEC

Best months for lower-cost travel: January · February · November · December

Weather

Fall

10°C - 20°C

Spring

10°C - 20°C

Summer

20°C - 30°C

Winter

-5°C - 5°C

How to get there

How to Reach Clarks Summit, United States

Located in northeastern Pennsylvania, Clarks Summit is a charming borough that offers picturesque landscapes and a welcoming community. Whether you're traveling by air or car, here are the most convenient ways to reach Clarks Summit:

By Air:

The closest major airport to Clarks Summit is the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton International Airport (AVP), which is situated approximately 12 miles south of the borough. From the airport, you can easily rent a car or hire a taxi to reach Clarks Summit. Several major airlines operate flights to and from this airport, making it a convenient option for travelers.

By Car:

Clarks Summit is conveniently located near major highways, making it easily accessible by car. If you're traveling from the north, you can take Interstate 81 South and exit at the Clarks Summit/Abingtons exit (Exit 194). From there, follow the signs to Clarks Summit. If you're coming from the south, take Interstate 81 North and exit at the same Clarks Summit/Abingtons exit (Exit 194). Follow the signs to reach the borough.

By Bus:

For those who prefer public transportation, there are bus services available to Clarks Summit. The Lackawanna County Transit System operates bus routes that connect various towns and cities in the region, including Clarks Summit. You can check their website or contact them for the most up-to-date schedules and routes.

By Train:

While Clarks Summit doesn't have a train station directly within the borough, Amtrak offers train services to nearby Scranton, Pennsylvania. From there, you can either rent a car or take a taxi to reach Clarks Summit, which is just a short drive away.

Regardless of the mode of transportation you choose, reaching Clarks Summit is relatively straightforward. Once you arrive, you'll be greeted by the borough's natural beauty, friendly locals, and a range of attractions to explore.

Getting to know Clarks Summit

Clarks Summit is a charming borough located in Lackawanna County, Pennsylvania, United States. Situated in the scenic Endless Mountains region, it is a peaceful and picturesque place to visit or call home. With a population of around 5,100 residents, Clarks Summit offers a close-knit community atmosphere.

The borough is known for its rich history, dating back to the early 19th century. It was named after the Clark brothers who settled in the area in the 1800s. Today, Clarks Summit preserves its heritage through well-preserved historic buildings and landmarks, adding to its timeless appeal.

One of the highlights of Clarks Summit is its breathtaking natural beauty. The borough is surrounded by endless greenery, including nearby state parks such as Lackawanna State Park and the stunning Pocono Mountains. This makes it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a wide range of recreational activities such as hiking, camping, and fishing.

Clarks Summit is also known for its vibrant downtown area. Here, you'll find a variety of local shops, boutiques, and restaurants, offering a unique shopping and dining experience. The community frequently hosts events and festivals, fostering a sense of unity and entertainment for both residents and visitors.

For those seeking educational opportunities, Clarks Summit is home to the prestigious Clarks Summit University (formerly known as Baptist Bible College), which offers various undergraduate and graduate programs. This institution adds to the borough's intellectual and cultural richness.

Overall, Clarks Summit is a hidden gem in Pennsylvania, offering a harmonious blend of history, natural beauty, and community spirit. Whether you're looking for a peaceful getaway or a place to settle down, Clarks Summit has something to offer.

Pre-trip checklist

Compiled from local tips, stay length, and season notes.

Local tips

  • Pack comfortable walking shoes for hiking trails
  • Don't forget to carry sunscreen and insect repellent
  • Check out local farmers markets for fresh produce
  • Visit the Clarks Summit Festival for live music and entertainment

Places worth exploring

5 places mapped for this destination

0–1
1–3
3–8
8–20
20+

Walking loops

Evening strolls, half-days, and fuller day loops — clustered by proximity.

Suggested 3-day outline

Places ordered by proximity into day buckets. Add what you like to your trip.

Frequently asked questions

Answers compiled from stay length, season, and local tips for this guide.

How many days do you need in Clarks Summit?

Most travelers spend about 3-5 days in Clarks Summit, United States.

When is the best time to visit Clarks Summit?

High season is typically Summer.

Which months are more budget-friendly in Clarks Summit?

Travelers often find better value in January, February, November, December.

What kind of trip is Clarks Summit good for?

Clarks Summit suits Hiking, Sightseeing, Shopping, Outdoor activities.

Is Clarks Summit walkable?

A mix of walkable clusters with some longer hops.

Any local tips for Clarks Summit?

Pack comfortable walking shoes for hiking trails

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Compare with another place Multi-city routes

Multi-city ideas

Nearby combinations sharing travel styles. See all routes

  • Clarks Summit → Clarks Green → Chinchilla · ≈4 km
  • Clarks Summit → Chinchilla → Clarks Green · ≈7 km
  • Clarks Summit → Clarks Green → Dickson City · ≈7 km

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