Nay Aug Park | Scranton

Nay Aug Park is the largest and one of the most popular public parks in Scranton, Pennsylvania, spanning about 73 acres. It serves as a vital urban green space, combining natural beauty, outdoor recreation, cultural sites, and historical landmarks. The park is nestled along Roaring Brook and offers a tranquil retreat within the city, attracting both locals and visitors for a variety of activities year-round.

Natural Features

One of the park’s most striking natural attractions is the Nay Aug Gorge, a dramatic limestone gorge carved by glacial meltwater at the end of the last Ice Age, over 11,500 years ago. The gorge is recognized as a National Natural Landmark due to its geological significance and striking scenery. Visitors can explore the Davis Trail, a roughly 2-mile round-trip hiking path that winds through forested areas and offers breathtaking views of the gorge’s steep cliffs and cascading waterfalls.

The Paul Kanjorski Covered Bridge is located near the gorge and provides a scenic vantage point overlooking the rugged terrain and rushing waters below. This picturesque bridge enhances the park’s historic charm and photographic appeal.

Another standout feature is the David Wenzel Treehouse, which is Pennsylvania’s first public treehouse. Rising about 150 feet above the gorge, it provides panoramic views of the park and surrounding landscape. The treehouse serves both as a lookout tower and an educational space, featuring displays about local wildlife and the natural environment.

The park also boasts the R.N. Davis Memorial Rose Garden, established in 1935. This beautifully maintained garden offers visitors a peaceful space filled with various types of roses and other flowering plants. It’s a favorite spot for relaxation, photography, and enjoying seasonal blooms.

Recreational Facilities

Nay Aug Park caters to visitors of all ages with several amenities and recreational options. There are multiple playgrounds equipped with swings, slides, climbing structures, and other play equipment designed to entertain children and families.

Several pavilions are located throughout the park, including the Schimelfenig, Marmi (also known as the Everhart Pavilion), and Gentile Pavilions. These pavilions can be rented for events such as family reunions, birthday parties, picnics, and community gatherings. They provide picnic tables, sheltered seating, and sometimes electricity, making them convenient venues for outdoor celebrations.

Hanlon’s Grove, located in the eastern section of the park, offers open grassy areas, picnic tables, and charcoal grills. It is a popular spot for casual picnicking, barbecues, and group outings.

The park has walking paths and open green spaces ideal for jogging, walking pets, or simply enjoying the outdoors. Benches and shaded areas are scattered throughout for visitors to rest and soak in the natural surroundings.

Cultural and Historical Significance

Nay Aug Park also plays an important role in the cultural life of Scranton. The Everhart Museum is located within the park boundaries. Founded in 1908, this museum specializes in natural history, science, and art. Its presence within the park adds an educational and cultural dimension to a visit, allowing guests to explore extensive exhibits after enjoying the outdoors.

The park area also includes the Brooks Coal Mine, a model mine created to educate visitors about the region’s rich coal mining history, a major part of Scranton’s heritage. Although it was never a commercial mine, the site offers insights into the mining industry’s impact on the city and its people.

Visitor Information and Events

Location: 500 Arthur Avenue, Scranton, PA 18510

Hours: Nay Aug Park is open year-round from dawn to dusk. Specific facilities within the park, such as pavilions and the Everhart Museum, have their own hours and schedules.

Accessibility: The park includes paved paths and accessible areas, but some trails around the gorge can be steep or uneven. Visitors with mobility concerns should check in advance or stick to more accessible sections.

Events: The park hosts a variety of events including outdoor concerts, festivals, seasonal celebrations, educational programs, and family-friendly activities. These events contribute to the park’s role as a community gathering place.

Summary

Nay Aug Park offers a rich combination of natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and cultural experiences. Its unique geological features like the Nay Aug Gorge and treehouse, alongside historical sites and well-maintained facilities, make it a prime destination in Scranton. Whether you’re looking for hiking, picnicking, family fun, or a dose of local history and art, Nay Aug Park provides a welcoming and diverse environment to explore.