Gouldsboro
Municipality
Gouldsboro, Pennsylvania is a quiet, forested village straddling Lehigh Township in Wayne County and Coolbaugh Township in Monroe County, nestled in the northern Pocono Mountains. Though modest in size—just over 3 square miles—it’s rich in history, natural beauty, and small-town charm.
🏞️ Geography & Setting
- Elevation: ~1,900 feet, offering crisp mountain air and scenic views.
- Water Features: Surrounded by lakes and ponds including Gouldsboro Lake, Lake Watawga, and Snag Pond, plus access to the Lehigh River.
- Recreation: Adjacent to Gouldsboro State Park, a popular spot for hiking, fishing, boating, and cross-country skiing.
🕰️ Historical Roots
- Originally called Sand Cut, the village was renamed Gouldsboro in 1892 after financier Jay Gould, who had built a tannery in the area before rising to national prominence.
- The Gouldsboro Train Station, once part of the Lackawanna Railroad, has been restored and now hosts seasonal visits from Steamtown trains, with locals greeting passengers in Victorian attire.
- The Gouldsboro Historical Society actively preserves local heritage, operating a museum and organizing community events like Memorial Day parades and historical reenactments.
🏘️ Community Snapshot
- Population: Around 750 residents as of the 2020 Census.
- Demographics: Predominantly White, with small percentages of African American, Asian, and Hispanic residents.
- Housing: A mix of year-round homes and vacation properties, many tucked into wooded lots.
🚗 Access & Lifestyle
- Located near Route 507, with easy access to Interstate 380.
- Within reach of larger Pocono hubs like Mount Pocono, Tobyhanna, and Scranton.
- Offers a peaceful, rural lifestyle with proximity to outdoor recreation and seasonal tourism.