Hiking in Western and North-Central Pennsylvania

Hello Friends! The daffodils and snowdrops are signaling the arrival of spring in the Mid-Atlantic.

Even if you subscribe to the lore of the groundhog it is still a great time to consider how you might spend your  days during the warmer times to come. I highly suggest hiking in Pennsylvania!

Pennsylvania is home to a variety of State Parks, State Forests, Natural Areas, Wild Areas, Wilderness Areas and even a National Forest.

Many of these locations exist today because of the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC).

This depression era Federal work program employed millions of young men to improve the land and build parks.

You may remember the story of how Paul and I got into backpacking. Below you will find links to some great places to explore in our neck of the woods.

A short drive west of Pittsburgh will take you to  Raccoon Creek State Park.

You will find a variety of hiking trails, a bio-diverse wildflower reserve, a sandy beach for summertime fun and a 20 mile loop perfect for dipping your toes into backpacking.

Among shorter hikes, the Frankfort Mineral Springs Trail meanders through ruins of an 1800s health spa. It was created as a haven away from overcrowding and the increasing pollution found in the city. This spa promoted Nature Cure, the belief that being in nature supported health and well-being. What a concept!

McConnells Mill State Park lies an hour north of the city.

The National Natural Landmark of Slippery Rock Creek Gorge can be found here. The north end of the park displays beautiful rock formations, hemlock forests and several waterfalls. Be sure to take a peek at Alpha Falls!

There are shorter and very scenic trail options here. You can also find a 7 mile linear trail that requires a pretty long day for an entire out and back.

Regardless of the miles you total you should always tailor your hiking to your liking.

If you are looking for a good campground overnight stay, head northeast a little further and you’ll arrive at Cook Forest State Park.

The Forest Cathedral Natural Area is another National Natural Landmark. It contains Pennsylvania’s largest old growth forest. It is a sacred experience to walk atop the soft fallen needles of eastern hemlock and eastern white pine hundreds of years old.

There are a variety of picnic areas as well as an information center at the base of the Natural Area. A large campground and fire tower are fun features as well.

The Laurel Highlands spreads out to the south and east of Pittsburgh.

We have traversed much of the Laurel Highlands and there is ample hiking and general outdoor enjoyment to be had in this wonderland. Here are just a couple places I highly recommend.

Bear Run Nature Reserve provides six well marked trails from 1 to 12 miles in length.

Traverse tunnels of rhododendron, cross bridges over rushing water, explore rock formations and savor the variety of plant life.

Click here to take a virtual walk at Bear Run and I’ll meet you at the overlook!

Another great place to enjoy an overnight camping trip is Laurel Hill State Park.

The Hemlock Trail guides you along Laurel Hill Creek to a small yet majestic stand of old growth eastern hemlocks.

The photogenic Jones Mill Run Dam was constructed by the CCC along with many other old camp buildings you will see on your adventure.

Laurel Hill also has the nicest beach and surrounding picnic area of any state park I have visited so far.

If you are looking for a wilderness experience a few hours from home look no further than the north-central portion of the state.

Overnight parking is not allowed in remote areas due to porcupines chewing on brake-lines. Trailhead signage will inform you that you will likely encounter timber rattlesnakes and that you should not name the elk.

There are numerous state parks in this area with your standard amenities but these more remote trails are where Paul and I realized our love of backpacking.

Enjoy this article from The Trek highlighting the The Black Forest Trail, a 43 mile backpacking loop.

Another Trek article features the Loyalsock Hiking Trail , a 60 mile linear trail with great variety and challenge.

It traverses multiple scenic overlooks and waterfalls, concluding close to World’s End State Park.

The Alpine Club of Williamsport maintains this trail and sells a detailed trail guide with maps of the area.

It is important to appreciate the dedicated people and groups that care for our trails.

If you live in PA I hope you were able to find a few ideas for your upcoming adventures. You don’t have to thru-hike the Appalachian Trail or even backpack to be able to enjoy the beauty around you. Seek out your own, Nature Cure!

What are some of your favorite trails or parks to visit? Do any of the suggestions I provided seem interesting to you? What types of hikes do you enjoy? Do you like to go alone or bring a friend?