Exploring Natural Wonders on Pennsylvania’s Hiking Trails

Bushkill Falls

Bushkill

Must-see natural wonder: One (or all) of the eight waterfalls

Bushkill Falls must be on every outdoor lover’s bucket list of scenic wonders. Nestled deep in the Pocono Mountains, it sits on 300 acres featuring eight cascading waterfalls and more than two miles of trails, bridges, and walkways. Geared to hikers of all levels, it is also a favorite for birdwatchers hoping to spy owls and hawks.

Bushkill Falls offers four color-coded trail routes. The Green Trail provides a view of the Main Falls and takes about 15 minutes to walk. If you’re ready to up your game, take the Yellow Trail, which is slightly harder and longer. The trail leads to views of the Main Falls, Lower Gorge Falls, Laurel Glen, and Upper Canyon; and takes about 45 minutes to walk. Capture some memorable moments trekking along the Blue Trail, a bit more challenging than the Yellow Trail. Bring your camera to snag “Kodak moments” of Pennell Falls’ beautiful angles. This route is moderately difficult and takes a little over an hour to complete. Advanced hikers opt for the Red Trail with its views of all eight waterfalls. About two miles long, it takes a little over two hours to hike.

Delaware Water Gap

Bushkill

Must-see natural wonder: Raymondskill Falls

The Delaware Water Gap in the Pocono Mountains, once touted as the world’s eighth scenic wonder, is formed by the distinct notch which cuts into low-forested mountains and the rocky Kittatinny Ridge by way of the Delaware River.

Check out the Raymondskill Creek Trail, a moderately easy hike that leads to the raging waters of three cascading waterfalls. After trekking through the steep and rocky terrain, celebrate your shared accomplishment with a photo-worthy moment of Raymondskill Falls, the state’s highest waterfall.

Fun fact: this three-tiered beauty tumbles 150 feet, which is just slightly less than Niagara Falls.

Hawk Mountain Sanctuary

Kempton

Must-see natural wonder: Boulder fields formed during the last Ice Age

Be sure to pack the binoculars to spot bird wildlife as you hike your way through Hawk Mountain Sanctuary. This 2,600-acre raptor conservation center provides trails and overlooks, allowing nature enthusiasts to spy kestrels and migrating hawks, eagles, and falcons passing through during the late summer and fall.

Watch your step when you descend the aptly named River of Rocks Trail, a 4-mile loop trail that consists of rocky terrain, steep stone, but also some beautiful wildflowers. Stay on track with the blazes until you reach the naturally occurring Ice-Age boulder fields. As you walk, see if you can hear water flowing beneath you and the rocks.

Pine Creek Gorge

Wellsboro

Must-see natural wonder: Hidden waterfalls along the Pine Creek Rail Trail

If you’re looking for impressive, sweeping views and tumbling waterfalls, a visit to Pine Creek Gorge in the PA Wilds is a must. Much of the land surrounding the gorge is public, with Leonard Harrison State Park on the eastern rim and Tioga State Forest and Colton Point State Park on the western rim.

Find your way to the Pine Creek Rail Trail, one of the state’s most scenic treasures and voted by USA Today as one of the “10 great places to take a bike tour.” Featuring 62 miles of crushed stone, the multi-use trail is ideal for hiking, bicycling, and horseback riding. With endless opportunities for sightseeing, visitors can expect to see dramatic rock outcrops, wildlife, and crystalline waterfalls. But here’s the catch, some of those waterfalls may be hidden!

Extend your nature trip with a leisurely hike along the eastern rim through the 0.6-mile Overlook Trail loop to Otter View for a magnificent view of the canyon. While the steep climb down provides a challenging hike, this trail is safe for kids to enjoy.