Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or looking for beautiful views (and a photo or two), PA has miles of scenic outdoor trails to explore. Lace up, call a friend, and see where the path takes you.
Wissahickon Valley Park
Philadelphia
Leave Philadelphia’s city streets behind and follow wooded paths into the 1,800-acre Wissahickon Valley Park. More than 50 miles of trails lead hikers along Wissahickon Creek, through lush forests and past historic stone landmarks. Choose the gentle Forbidden Drive trail or climb the park’s rugged side trails for a more challenging excursion.
Mount Minsi, Delaware Water Gap
Monroe County
Hike a 5-mile portion of the Appalachian Trail towards Mount Minsi, taking either a woodland route or a fire road. Rocky paths and forested slopes make the uphill climb challenging, with several overlooks providing welcome places to pause for a break or picnic. At the top, take in panoramic views of New Jersey, the Delaware River, and the surrounding landscape of the Pocono Mountains.
Hawk Mountain Sanctuary
Kempton
Climb a rocky ridgeline in Berks County at Hawk Mountain Sanctuary, the world's first refuge for birds of prey. Each fall, hikers ascend to North Lookout to witness the legendary hawk migration, with the chance to spot hawks, eagles, falcons, and vultures riding the thermals overhead. From the summit, a sweeping 200-degree view stretches up to 70 miles across the Appalachian ridgelines, one of the most rewarding payoffs on the trail.
Raymondskill Falls Trail
Milford
Follow a short, hemlock-shaded woodland trail in Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area to the three-tiered Raymondskill Falls, Pennsylvania's tallest waterfall. Two viewing platforms let hikers take in the falls from above and beside its dramatic middle tier. The trail is short but steep and uneven, a quick effort that rewards visitors with one of the state's most impressive waterfall views.
Valley Forge National Historical Park
King of Prussia
Walk through the site where George Washington’s Continental Army endured a difficult winter encampment during the Revolutionary War at Valley Forge National Historic Park. Park trails pass reconstructed log cabins, statues, monuments, and Washington’s restored stone headquarters. Complete the 8.7-mile Joseph Plumb Martin Trail loop or choose a shorter route for a relaxed stroll through American history.
Falls Trail System, Ricketts Glen State Park
Benton
Considered by many hikers to be one of the best waterfall hikes on the East Coast, the Falls Trail System alongside Kitchen Creek in Ricketts Glen State Park is a must-try journey. The 7.2-mile loop near Wilkes-Barre passes 21 waterfalls, including 94-foot Ganoga Falls, as it travels through two forested glens. This trail is best suited for experienced hikers, as steep climbs, narrow passages and slippery rocks earn it the park’s most difficult rating.
Fred Woods Trail, Elk State Forest
Driftwood
Squeeze between towering boulders and wander through a natural rock city along this 4.5-mile forest loop in Elk State Forest. Massive formations create narrow passageways and hidden corners that make the Fred Woods Trail feel like a maze. Between the rocks, hikers can take in sweeping views of the Pennsylvania Wilds.
Mount Davis
Meyersdale
Hike the trails surrounding the 3,213-foot summit of Mount Davis, Pennsylvania's highest point, tucked within the rugged Mt. Davis Natural Area of Forbes State Forest. Rocky terrain and quiet, undisturbed woodlands set this natural area apart from the state's more developed scenic overlooks. Climb the summit's observation tower for a rare 360-degree view stretching across miles of unbroken forest canopy, with the ridgelines of the Laurel Highlands rising in the distance.
Baughman Rock Vista Overlook
Ohiopyle
Push through a steep, rocky ascent along the Baughman Trail in Ohiopyle State Park, rated one of the park's most challenging hikes, to reach Baughman Rock Vista Overlook. The climb delivers a sweeping payoff: a panoramic view of the Youghiogheny River Gorge, where the river has carved its way through the Laurel Ridge for thousands of years. Visitors seeking an easier outing can skip the steep ascent altogether and reach the overlook via a short walk from the nearby roadside parking area.
Photo Credit: Allegheny National Forest Visitors Bureau
Kinzua Bridge State Park and Skywalk
Mount Jewett
Named one of the world’s 10 most beautiful skywalks and viewpoints by Culture Trip, the Kinzua Skywalk situated in Kinzua Bridge State Park pairs history with dreamlike views. The structure once carried trains across the valley as the world’s highest railroad viaduct before a tornado destroyed much of it. Today, visitors can walk 600 feet across the remaining towers to an observation deck with a partial glass floor where they can see the world below.
Hawk Rock
Duncannon
Join the Appalachian Trail near Duncannon for a short but steep 2.7 miles, gaining nearly 700 feet in elevation through rocky, forested terrain before reaching Hawk Rock. From the overlook, hikers are treated to views of the Susquehanna River winding below, with the surrounding ridgelines and river islands adding to the scenery.
Choose your trail, pack your camera, and start exploring Pennsylvania one scenic mile at a time. Check out even more hiking trips and trails throughout the state.