Varden Conservation Area Tannery Tract — Attraction in South Canaan Township

Varden Conservation Area has two main parts. The part with the Teaching Pavillion is called the Tannery Tract. Park visitors told me this area was once land used by the Indians and that hikers sometimes find artifacts here. A historical chimney can be found down near Gravity Hill Road. There are nine trails in this section including the one around a pond. Fishing is allowed in this pond which has warm water varieties. This section also has hunting in season and cross-country skiing in winter. The Mid-Valley section of the park has eight trails, some of which lead to a pond. I saw several dog walkers on the trail. The picture showing the trail that starts at the bulletin board and latrine, and the picture of the large stand of evergreens, are from the Mid-Valley section of the park.

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It's a nice place. The pond with the large covered seating area is nice. The other pond that is located further down the road is really nice too. The only problem I've had there was at the pond that says no fishing. You can't fish or swim in the pond. The guy from the park service that lives there gave me a hard time about being there because I didn't know you couldn't fish there. Meanwhile there's fishing poles and beach toys sitting by the pond because apparently the rules don't apply to him or his family, just everyone else. I didn't believe the property was donated to the state so any employee could have a private pond to do...

Great little park tucked away in the heart of the Pocono Mountains! Both tracts (Mid-Valley & Tannery) offer visitors a peaceful experience; especially due to their lack of large crowds! Its hit or miss with trails being mowed/maintained, so plan for tall grass and muddy conditions. Due to Varden being a conservation area there is much wildlife to enjoy here! Bathrooms are often out of supplies so don't depend on them for meeting your expectations. If you enjoy wildlife viewing along wooded trails traversing a variety of landscapes then the Varden CA should make it ways onto your list of parks you...