Outdoor Adventures in Pennsylvania
What's your idea of an adventure? Whether it's the cool, green forests of the north, the rolling hills of the south, or the thousands of pristine lakes and streams, hiking trails, and state parks throughout, there's no shortage of outdoor places to visit in PA.
Hiking
Wonderful wilderness, breathtaking beauty, not to mention a decent workout — PA hiking is the perfect way to spend the day. Hike a section of the U.S.’s longest hiking-only path, the Appalachian Trail, or discover the ancient trees of Cook Forest where the Hemlocks and Pines are more than three hundred and fifty years old.
Camping
With 124 free, jaw-dropping state parks, thousands of campgrounds, and numerous activities to do while you're here, it's no wonder people flock to the Pennsylvania wilderness to experience nights (and days!) in the great outdoors. Whether you're new to Pennsylvania camping and looking for easy access and friendly staff or an experienced camper seeking something more challenging and remote, you'll find the ideal site for your camping, “glamping,” or primitive style at the many campgrounds and state and national lands dotted around the state.
Kayaking and Boating
Pennsylvania is a haven for boating and kayaking enthusiasts, but you don't have to be a seasoned sailor to enjoy the waters here. With 86,000 miles of rivers and streams and more than 2,000 lakes, you can take your pick of activities for adults and kids that suit your group's skill level. From the sparkling waters of Lake Erie to the Class III-V rapids at Ohiopyle State Park for whitewater rafting, you'll find outdoor places to visit in every corner of Pennsylvania.
Rail Trails
Rail trails are paths that follow the long-abandoned tracks of local trains of often long-gone railroads that once crisscrossed PA. No longer used by rail lines, they're the perfect way to experience the great outdoors whether hiking, biking, cross-country skiing, or out for a leisurely stroll. They're open to everyone who wants to see beautiful scenery, escape the crowds, and even take in a bit of the state's history. Hop aboard some of Pennsylvania's most well-known rail trails, for example, the Great Allegheny Passage, our patch of the Appalachian Trail or find a trail close to home.
Stargazing
Did you know Pennsylvania is one of the best places in the eastern United States for stargazing? In addition to Cherry Springs State Park, PA's world-famous and internationally certified “Dark Sky Place,” many of the state's less populated areas provide very little light pollution making stargazing one of the most popular outdoor activities in the state.
