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Shades Of Death Trailhead
4.8 ★★★★★ 337 Google reviews · Running trail in Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania · Open 24 hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Natural surface
- Loop distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Loop
- Shade
- Tree cover
- Access
- Open 24 hours
Confirmed from Shades Of Death Trailhead's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
Hike to waterfalls, some man-made and some natural, on this popular trail.
What runners say about Shades Of Death Trailhead
“The trail is very easy to walk, with a well-maintained path that’s mostly flat and shaded.”
“A perfect stop in nature 💧🌲 Visiting Shades of Death was a beautiful and very easy experience to enjoy.”
“We only had a few hours to spend at Hickory Run State Park, so we chose to hike the Shade of Death Trail based on a recommendation from a friend.”
“The different areas are clearly marked, well organized, and easy to follow, which makes the visit even more enjoyable and safe for families.”
“Within just a few minutes, you reach the waterfall, surrounded by forest, creating a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere.”
This was astounding. Absolutely magical! A must hike! Lots of roots and boulders but totally worth it. Bring walking sticks and hiking boots. The trail runs right next to the creek and it's gloriously beautiful! The waterfall at the dam is breathtaking and unexpected! Truly amazing!
This is a very nice trail. Any beginner can complete it and feel accomplished. The path is rocky and has many roots but is forgiving, it’s marked well but not well enough that it feels like you’re just being pushed along to the next marker. If you want the trail to yourself, get there around 7:30-8am.
Shadows of Death Trail is an absolutely beautiful and peaceful place to explore. The trail winds through a quiet forest with several scenic spots, including small waterfalls, moss-covered rocks, and clear, gentle streams.
Complete guide! How to access: Park at the office and visitor center, and when facing the center, take the sidewalk to the left and then make a right behind the visitor center to start the trail.
Trail conditions & character
“A perfect stop in nature 💧🌲 Visiting Shades of Death was a beautiful and very easy experience to enjoy.”
“The path is rocky and has many roots but is forgiving, it’s marked well but not well enough that it feels like you’re just being pushed along to the next marker.”
“You can also access the trail by driving down 534 for about 5 mins with parking available on the left side, there is limited spots though.”
“We only had a few hours to spend at Hickory Run State Park, so we chose to hike the Shade of Death Trail based on a recommendation from a friend.”
“Within just a few minutes, you reach the waterfall, surrounded by forest, creating a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere.”
“The trail is very easy to walk, with a well-maintained path that’s mostly flat and shaded.”
“The path is rocky and has many roots but is forgiving, it’s marked well but not well enough that it feels like you’re just being pushed along to the next marker.”
“We made this hike into a loop by going around the CCC dam reservoir.”
“The trail to the waterfall is short and very accessible, making it perfect for the whole family, even with young children.”
Plan your run at Shades Of Death Trailhead
The practical stuff
- AccessOpen 24 hours — no gate to beat, so a 5am or a 10pm run both work
- SurfaceNatural surface — easiest on the joints and the most fun, but expect roots, rocks and mud after rain
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeRunners describe real tree cover here — it makes a summer afternoon workable
- LightingRunners report lights on the path — useful for pre-dawn and after-work miles. Lighting and opening hours are separate things, so check both.
- At the trailheadparking, water — reported by runners
- Stroller / wheelchairReported as smooth and step-free enough for a running stroller or a chair.
- Websitedcnr.pa.gov
- Social Instagram · Facebook
Hours
| Monday | Open 24 hours |
| Tuesday | Open 24 hours |
| Wednesday | Open 24 hours |
| Thursday | Open 24 hours |
| Friday | Open 24 hours |
| Saturday | Open 24 hours |
| Sunday | Open 24 hours |
Running trails near Jim Thorpe
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
Hickory Run State Park
4.7 ★★★★★ 4,711 reviews
This 15,990-acre park has 40+ miles of hiking trails, trout streams & a landmark Boulder Field.
Hickory Run Boulder Field
4.8 ★★★★★ 1,370 reviews
Park with a boulder-filled field formed millennia ago from glaciers.
