Pennsylvania is celebrated for its diverse landscapes and natural splendor, offering a plethora of stunning destinations waiting to be explored. From tranquil lakeshores to majestic mountain panoramas, the state boasts a rich tapestry of outdoor wonders that beckon adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike.
Mount Washington Overlook
Located in Allegheny County, the Mount Washington Overlook treats visitors to an iconic view of Pittsburgh’s Golden Triangle, where the Allegheny and Monongahela Rivers merge to form the Ohio River.
Accessible via historic inclines like the Monongahela and Duquesne Inclines, this viewpoint offers a sweeping panorama of the city skyline, best enjoyed with a drink at The Summit.
Ridenour and Hawn’s Overlook
For breathtaking sunrises and sunsets over Raystown Lake, venture to Ridenour and Hawn’s Overlooks in Huntingdon County. These easily accessible viewpoints provide stunning vistas of the lake’s expansive waters and surrounding woodlands, making them ideal spots for a tranquil family hike.
Penn’s Cave
Immersed in both history and natural wonder, Penn’s Cave in Centre County invites visitors to explore its underground chambers by boat. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this cave showcases awe-inspiring stalactites and stalagmites, offering a glimpse into geological formations shaped over centuries.
Austin Dam
In Potter County, the remnants of Austin Dam stand as a testament to nature’s force and human perseverance. Built in 1909 to power a local paper mill, the dam’s collapse in 1911 reshaped the landscape, leaving behind scenic ruins and panoramic views from the dam’s remains that are perfect for hiking and exploration.
Bake Oven Knob
Just outside Allentown along the Appalachian Trail, Bake Oven Knob rewards hikers with sweeping views of verdant forests and rolling farmlands. Despite its rocky terrain, the short hike to the overlook offers year-round scenic views, from vibrant autumn foliage to snow-covered landscapes in winter.
Blue Marsh Lake
Crafted by the US Army Corps of Engineers in Berks County, Blue Marsh Lake beckons outdoor enthusiasts with nearly 30 miles of trails winding through its shores. Surrounded by lush lawns and dense woodlands, the lake is ideal for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, offering picturesque views from every angle.
Irving Cliff
Named after Washington Irving, who drew inspiration here in 1841, Irving Cliff in Wayne County boasts stunning views of Honesdale and the Moosic Mountains. A moderate one-mile trail leads to the cliff’s summit, rewarding visitors with expansive vistas that change with the seasons, making it a perfect year-round destination.
Delaware Water Gap
Spanning Monroe County along the Delaware River, the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area features dramatic vistas where the river slices through the Kittatinny Ridge. Hiking trails on both sides offer breathtaking overlooks, showcasing the area’s natural beauty across a variety of landscapes.
McConnells Mill State Park
North of Pittsburgh in Lawrence County, McConnells Mill State Park is home to a 19th-century mill and covered bridge set amidst the picturesque Slippery Rock Creek Gorge. Miles of hiking trails lead to stunning waterfalls and scenic viewpoints, offering a serene escape for outdoor enthusiasts.
Ricketts Glen State Park
In Luzerne, Sullivan, and Columbia Counties, Ricketts Glen State Park captivates visitors with its 22 majestic waterfalls along challenging hiking trails. The seven-mile Falls Trail provides access to most of these natural wonders, offering a true wilderness experience amidst Pennsylvania’s scenic beauty.
Pine Creek Gorge
Known as the Pennsylvania Grand Canyon, Pine Creek Gorge spans Tioga, Lycoming, and Clinton Counties, offering breathtaking overlooks that plunge 1,500 feet into the canyon below. Leonard Harrison and Colton Point State Parks provide some of the state’s most stunning panoramic views and hiking trails.
The Pinnacle Trail
Located in Berks County, the Pinnacle Trail leads hikers to the second-highest elevation in the area, offering sweeping vistas of the Lehigh Valley. Though challenging, the hike rewards with unparalleled bird-watching opportunities and a deep connection with the region’s natural splendor.
Ohiopyle State Park
Southwestern Pennsylvania’s Ohiopyle State Park is renowned for its outdoor activities, including thrilling whitewater rafting on the Youghiogheny River and scenic biking along its banks. With diverse landscapes and abundant wildlife, the park offers a perfect retreat for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Bushkill Falls
Dubbed the “Niagara of Pennsylvania,” Bushkill Falls in Pike County boasts a series of eight stunning waterfalls nestled within pristine woodlands. Trails of varying difficulty wind through the area, inviting visitors to enjoy birdwatching, fishing, and immersive natural beauty just a short drive from Philadelphia.
Cherry Springs State Park
For stargazing enthusiasts, Cherry Springs State Park in Potter County offers unrivaled views of the night sky as one of the East Coast’s few “dark sky” areas. Away from urban light pollution, visitors can marvel at constellations, planets, and even the Milky Way during optimal conditions, providing a celestial experience like no other.
Cook Forest/Clarion River
North of Pittsburgh, Cook Forest State Park encompasses vast old-growth forests and the serene Clarion River. Whether hiking, kayaking, or simply absorbing the scenery, this hidden gem offers a tranquil retreat amidst towering trees and pristine waterways.
Pennsylvania’s natural beauty invites exploration and discovery at every turn, from its rugged landscapes to its serene waterways. Whether seeking panoramic vistas, historical landmarks, or outdoor adventures, the state’s diverse array of beautiful places promises unforgettable experiences for all who venture outdoors.