Favorite Beginner's Hikes in Pennsylvania
Kurmes Trail at Kurmes Paradise Creek Nature Preserve
Monroe County
https://www.phlt.org/kurmes-paradise-creek
Easy and beautiful 2.2-mile loop featuring a creek and extensive stands of Mountain Laurel and Rhododendron, which bloom in June and July.
Loop Trail at The Todd Nature Reserve
Butler County
https://www.aswp.org/our-places/todd-nature-reserve/
This trail leads through various forest habitats, including upland oak-hickory, the edge of hemlock ravines, and young red maplece farm fields were stands where on. Near the pond, one can look east across fields to the farmhouse where young Clyde Todd visited his grandparents in the 1800s. Rocky portions, one stream crossing, occasional wet spots, and moderate grades. Walking time: 60 min
High Rocks Trail Tohickon Valley Park and Ralph Stover State Park
Bucks County
https://www.pa.gov/agencies/dcnr/recreation/where-to-go/state-parks/find-a-park/ralph-stover-state-park/hiking
Most of High Rocks Trail travels through Tohickon Valley Park (Bucks County Park). Two small sections of the trail are located within Ralph Stover State Park, near High Rocks Vista. Both sections can be accessed from the parking lot off Tory Road.
Scenic Vista Trail at Kings Gap Environmental Education Center
Cumberland County
https://www.pa.gov/agencies/dcnr/recreation/where-to-go/state-parks/find-a-park/kings-gap-environmental-education-center/hiking
A 2.5-mile trail traveling between the Scenic Vista parking area and the Kings Gap Hollow Days Use Area. Hike through high-elevation pine and oak forests to a scenic vista midway along the trail.
Bluffs Edge Trail at Erie Bluffs State Park
Erie County
https://www.pa.gov/agencies/dcnr/recreation/where-to-go/state-parks/find-a-park/erie-bluffs-state-park/hiking
A .4-mile trail traveling along the bluff's edge, there are two overlooks with views of Lake Erie along the trail. One is 90 feet high while the other is 75 feet high.
Monroe County
https://www.phlt.org/kurmes-paradise-creek
Easy and beautiful 2.2-mile loop featuring a creek and extensive stands of Mountain Laurel and Rhododendron, which bloom in June and July.
Loop Trail at The Todd Nature Reserve
Butler County
https://www.aswp.org/our-places/todd-nature-reserve/
This trail leads through various forest habitats, including upland oak-hickory, the edge of hemlock ravines, and young red maplece farm fields were stands where on. Near the pond, one can look east across fields to the farmhouse where young Clyde Todd visited his grandparents in the 1800s. Rocky portions, one stream crossing, occasional wet spots, and moderate grades. Walking time: 60 min
High Rocks Trail Tohickon Valley Park and Ralph Stover State Park
Bucks County
https://www.pa.gov/agencies/dcnr/recreation/where-to-go/state-parks/find-a-park/ralph-stover-state-park/hiking
Most of High Rocks Trail travels through Tohickon Valley Park (Bucks County Park). Two small sections of the trail are located within Ralph Stover State Park, near High Rocks Vista. Both sections can be accessed from the parking lot off Tory Road.
Scenic Vista Trail at Kings Gap Environmental Education Center
Cumberland County
https://www.pa.gov/agencies/dcnr/recreation/where-to-go/state-parks/find-a-park/kings-gap-environmental-education-center/hiking
A 2.5-mile trail traveling between the Scenic Vista parking area and the Kings Gap Hollow Days Use Area. Hike through high-elevation pine and oak forests to a scenic vista midway along the trail.
Bluffs Edge Trail at Erie Bluffs State Park
Erie County
https://www.pa.gov/agencies/dcnr/recreation/where-to-go/state-parks/find-a-park/erie-bluffs-state-park/hiking
A .4-mile trail traveling along the bluff's edge, there are two overlooks with views of Lake Erie along the trail. One is 90 feet high while the other is 75 feet high.
Favorite Backpacking Trails in Pennsylvania
In order of beginner to most strenuous
Pinchot Trail South Loop
Lackawanna County
Thornhurst
Pinchot State Forest
https://www.pa.gov/agencies/dcnr/recreation/where-to-go/state-forests/find-a-forest/pinchot/hiking
https://endlessmountains.wordpress.com/2019/09/13/hiking-the-pinchot-trail-south-loop-pinchot-state-forest/
13-mile loop. From Jeff Mitchell’s website: “The south loop of the Pinchot Trail (PT) is a beautiful and fairly easy hike. While the terrain is rolling and hilly, there is still a lot of great scenery and diversity.” There are numerous great camping spots, plentiful water, and the beautiful Choke Creek Falls.
Quehanna Trail
Cameron, Clearfield, Elk Counties
State College
Moshannon and Elk State Forests
https://www.pa.gov/agencies/dcnr/recreation/where-to-go/state-forests/find-a-forest/pinchot/hiking
endlessmountains.wordpress.com/?s=quehanna&submit=Search
75-mile loop, with two cross-connector trails. A myriad of side trails offer options from overnight to multi-day treks. From DCNR: “The trail passes through some of the wildest and beautiful country Pennsylvania has to offer.” The Quehanna Wild Area boasts diverse scenery and habitats, with wild elk sightings being common, set against generally rolling terrain with minimal elevation changes.
Loyalsock Trail
Lycoming, Sullivan Counties
Williamsport
Loyalsock State Forest
https://www.pa.gov/agencies/dcnr/recreation/where-to-go/state-forests/find-a-forest/loyalsock/hiking
https://alpineclubofwilliamsport.com/
From DCNR: “This 59-mile trail passes through the rugged forested mountains and valleys of the Loyalsock State Forest. Known locally as the “LT,” this trail is sure to provide challenges and tranquility to all hikers.” This is a linear trail with local shuttles available. Countless scenic waterfalls and vistas.
Susquehannock Trail System
Clinton, Potter Counties
Coudersport
Susquehannock State Forest
https://www.pa.gov/agencies/dcnr/recreation/where-to-go/state-forests/find-a-forest/susquehannock/hiking
https://stc-hike.org/
83-mile loop, with two cross-connector trails. This trail offers the epitome of isolated wilderness backpacking in northcentral PA, including the magical Hammersley Wild Area. There are challenging ascents and descents interspersed with plateau walking. The maintenance club has built shelters and installed mile markers.
Black Forest Trail
Clinton, Lycoming, Potter Counties
Williamsport
Tiadaghton State Forest
https://www.pa.gov/agencies/dcnr/recreation/where-to-go/state-forests/find-a-forest/tiadaghton/hiking
42-mile loop. Widely considered to be PA’s most difficult trail, yet also one of the most popular and beautiful. Throughout the ups and downs, there is a breathtaking assortment of vistas, some highlighting Pine Creek Gorge, others looking to peaks hosting other nearby trails/ The rugged beauty seen in the isolated mountain streams and hollows, coupled with flora and fauna, and endless views, make the climbs worth it.
Pinchot Trail South Loop
Lackawanna County
Thornhurst
Pinchot State Forest
https://www.pa.gov/agencies/dcnr/recreation/where-to-go/state-forests/find-a-forest/pinchot/hiking
https://endlessmountains.wordpress.com/2019/09/13/hiking-the-pinchot-trail-south-loop-pinchot-state-forest/
13-mile loop. From Jeff Mitchell’s website: “The south loop of the Pinchot Trail (PT) is a beautiful and fairly easy hike. While the terrain is rolling and hilly, there is still a lot of great scenery and diversity.” There are numerous great camping spots, plentiful water, and the beautiful Choke Creek Falls.
Quehanna Trail
Cameron, Clearfield, Elk Counties
State College
Moshannon and Elk State Forests
https://www.pa.gov/agencies/dcnr/recreation/where-to-go/state-forests/find-a-forest/pinchot/hiking
endlessmountains.wordpress.com/?s=quehanna&submit=Search
75-mile loop, with two cross-connector trails. A myriad of side trails offer options from overnight to multi-day treks. From DCNR: “The trail passes through some of the wildest and beautiful country Pennsylvania has to offer.” The Quehanna Wild Area boasts diverse scenery and habitats, with wild elk sightings being common, set against generally rolling terrain with minimal elevation changes.
Loyalsock Trail
Lycoming, Sullivan Counties
Williamsport
Loyalsock State Forest
https://www.pa.gov/agencies/dcnr/recreation/where-to-go/state-forests/find-a-forest/loyalsock/hiking
https://alpineclubofwilliamsport.com/
From DCNR: “This 59-mile trail passes through the rugged forested mountains and valleys of the Loyalsock State Forest. Known locally as the “LT,” this trail is sure to provide challenges and tranquility to all hikers.” This is a linear trail with local shuttles available. Countless scenic waterfalls and vistas.
Susquehannock Trail System
Clinton, Potter Counties
Coudersport
Susquehannock State Forest
https://www.pa.gov/agencies/dcnr/recreation/where-to-go/state-forests/find-a-forest/susquehannock/hiking
https://stc-hike.org/
83-mile loop, with two cross-connector trails. This trail offers the epitome of isolated wilderness backpacking in northcentral PA, including the magical Hammersley Wild Area. There are challenging ascents and descents interspersed with plateau walking. The maintenance club has built shelters and installed mile markers.
Black Forest Trail
Clinton, Lycoming, Potter Counties
Williamsport
Tiadaghton State Forest
https://www.pa.gov/agencies/dcnr/recreation/where-to-go/state-forests/find-a-forest/tiadaghton/hiking
42-mile loop. Widely considered to be PA’s most difficult trail, yet also one of the most popular and beautiful. Throughout the ups and downs, there is a breathtaking assortment of vistas, some highlighting Pine Creek Gorge, others looking to peaks hosting other nearby trails/ The rugged beauty seen in the isolated mountain streams and hollows, coupled with flora and fauna, and endless views, make the climbs worth it.
Favorite Universally Accessible Trails in Pennsylvania
Karl Boyes Multi-Purpose National Recreation Trail
Erie County
https://www.pa.gov/agencies/dcnr/recreation/where-to-go/state-parks/find-a-park/presque-isle-state-park/hiking
A paved 13.5-mile circuit loop at Presque Isle State Park with stellar views of Lake Erie and Presque Isle Bay
Barbour Rock Trail
Tioga County
https://www.pa.gov/agencies/dcnr/recreation/where-to-go/state-forests/find-a-forest/tioga/hiking
This 0.7 mile (1.4 miles roundtrip) out-and-back trail provides a leisurely trip to a stunning vista overlooking the Owassee rapids on Pine Creek
Coal & Coke Trail
Westmoreland County
https://www.westmorelandcountypa.gov/1006/Coal-Coke-Trail
The 5-mile trail connects Mount Pleasant to Scottdale and takes users along Jacob’s Creek and past beautiful natural areas and old coke ovens
Chester Valley Trail
Chester & Mongomery Counties
https://www.chesco.org/4643/Chester-Valley-Trail
Currently 18.6 miles in length, this asphalt trail begins east of Downingtown and connects with the Schuylkill River Trail in Norristown
Lake Scranton Walking Trail
Lackawanna County
https://discovernepa.com/listing/lake-scranton-walking-trail/
A wooded 3.5-mile paved loop path encircling scenic Lake Scranton
Erie County
https://www.pa.gov/agencies/dcnr/recreation/where-to-go/state-parks/find-a-park/presque-isle-state-park/hiking
A paved 13.5-mile circuit loop at Presque Isle State Park with stellar views of Lake Erie and Presque Isle Bay
Barbour Rock Trail
Tioga County
https://www.pa.gov/agencies/dcnr/recreation/where-to-go/state-forests/find-a-forest/tioga/hiking
This 0.7 mile (1.4 miles roundtrip) out-and-back trail provides a leisurely trip to a stunning vista overlooking the Owassee rapids on Pine Creek
Coal & Coke Trail
Westmoreland County
https://www.westmorelandcountypa.gov/1006/Coal-Coke-Trail
The 5-mile trail connects Mount Pleasant to Scottdale and takes users along Jacob’s Creek and past beautiful natural areas and old coke ovens
Chester Valley Trail
Chester & Mongomery Counties
https://www.chesco.org/4643/Chester-Valley-Trail
Currently 18.6 miles in length, this asphalt trail begins east of Downingtown and connects with the Schuylkill River Trail in Norristown
Lake Scranton Walking Trail
Lackawanna County
https://discovernepa.com/listing/lake-scranton-walking-trail/
A wooded 3.5-mile paved loop path encircling scenic Lake Scranton
Favorite Trail Running Hikes in Pennsylvania
Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail
Fayette, Somerset, Westmoreland, and Cambria counties
https://www.pa.gov/agencies/dcnr/recreation/what-to-do/hiking/laurel-highlands-hiking-trail
The 70-mile hiking trail stretches along Laurel Mountain from the picturesque Youghiogheny River at Ohiopyle State Park to the Conemaugh Gorge near Johnstown. Seasoned backpackers challenge themselves on the steep, rugged areas of the trails. Casual hikers enjoy areas that are reasonably level and pleasant for walking.
Lower Conestoga Trail along Susquehanna River
Lancaster County
https://www.lancasterhikingclub.com/copy-of-conestoga-trail
The Conestoga Trail offers scenes of the many different land uses and natural terrain that exist in Lancaster County. It crosses rich farmland, passes pleasant residential areas, glimpses of highly industrialized sites, meanders through the Lancaster County Central Park, and climbs about in the River Hills.
Fayette, Somerset, Westmoreland, and Cambria counties
https://www.pa.gov/agencies/dcnr/recreation/what-to-do/hiking/laurel-highlands-hiking-trail
The 70-mile hiking trail stretches along Laurel Mountain from the picturesque Youghiogheny River at Ohiopyle State Park to the Conemaugh Gorge near Johnstown. Seasoned backpackers challenge themselves on the steep, rugged areas of the trails. Casual hikers enjoy areas that are reasonably level and pleasant for walking.
Lower Conestoga Trail along Susquehanna River
Lancaster County
https://www.lancasterhikingclub.com/copy-of-conestoga-trail
The Conestoga Trail offers scenes of the many different land uses and natural terrain that exist in Lancaster County. It crosses rich farmland, passes pleasant residential areas, glimpses of highly industrialized sites, meanders through the Lancaster County Central Park, and climbs about in the River Hills.
Favorite Dog Friendly Hikes in Pennsylvania
David’s Field Loop at Detweiler Park
Dauphin County
https://detweilerpark.org/about/park-trails-map/
David’s Field Loop is a 1.5-mile orange-blazed trail with panoramic views and winding through a diverse forest. Dogs are welcome on leash, and the trail connects to Stackpole Trail, Meade’s Mountain Loop, and Frankie’s Dogleg Loop.
Susquehanna Warrior Trail
Luzerne County
https://www.susquehannawarriortrail.org/
The Susquehanna Warrior Trail is a 12.5-mile crushed stone rail trail that follows the scenic Susquehanna River, open for walking, biking, and running, and dog-friendly with leashes required.
Fred Woods Trail, Elk State Forest
Cameron County
https://trails.dcnr.pa.gov/trails/trail/trailview?trailkey=270
Fred Woods Trail is just under 5 miles long and winds through beautiful woodland terrain. The trail features three major vistas overlooking the Bennett Branch of Sinnemahoning Creek, as well as several impressive rock formations.
The Kildoo Trail, McConnells Mill State Park
Lawrence County
https://elibrary.dcnr.pa.gov/GetDocument?docId=1737472&DocName=MCMI_ParkMap.pdf
The Kildoo Trail is a three-mile loop marked with yellow and blue blazes, beginning at either end of the covered bridge south of the historic gristmill. Circling Slippery Rock Creek, the trail includes an easier eastern section leading to Kildoo Falls.
Meadow Run Trail, Ohiopyle State Park
Fayette County
https://elibrary.dcnr.pa.gov/GetDocument?docId=1737407&DocName=OHIO_ParkMap.pdf
Meadow Run Trail is a 3.2-mile out-and-back Ohiopyle classic that follows a scenic, rock-strewn creek with views of the Cascades, Flat Rock, and a popular climbing area; however, sections can be slippery. It can be accessed from Dinnerbell Road near PA 381 or from the Meadow Run Natural Waterslides parking lot.
Dauphin County
https://detweilerpark.org/about/park-trails-map/
David’s Field Loop is a 1.5-mile orange-blazed trail with panoramic views and winding through a diverse forest. Dogs are welcome on leash, and the trail connects to Stackpole Trail, Meade’s Mountain Loop, and Frankie’s Dogleg Loop.
Susquehanna Warrior Trail
Luzerne County
https://www.susquehannawarriortrail.org/
The Susquehanna Warrior Trail is a 12.5-mile crushed stone rail trail that follows the scenic Susquehanna River, open for walking, biking, and running, and dog-friendly with leashes required.
Fred Woods Trail, Elk State Forest
Cameron County
https://trails.dcnr.pa.gov/trails/trail/trailview?trailkey=270
Fred Woods Trail is just under 5 miles long and winds through beautiful woodland terrain. The trail features three major vistas overlooking the Bennett Branch of Sinnemahoning Creek, as well as several impressive rock formations.
The Kildoo Trail, McConnells Mill State Park
Lawrence County
https://elibrary.dcnr.pa.gov/GetDocument?docId=1737472&DocName=MCMI_ParkMap.pdf
The Kildoo Trail is a three-mile loop marked with yellow and blue blazes, beginning at either end of the covered bridge south of the historic gristmill. Circling Slippery Rock Creek, the trail includes an easier eastern section leading to Kildoo Falls.
Meadow Run Trail, Ohiopyle State Park
Fayette County
https://elibrary.dcnr.pa.gov/GetDocument?docId=1737407&DocName=OHIO_ParkMap.pdf
Meadow Run Trail is a 3.2-mile out-and-back Ohiopyle classic that follows a scenic, rock-strewn creek with views of the Cascades, Flat Rock, and a popular climbing area; however, sections can be slippery. It can be accessed from Dinnerbell Road near PA 381 or from the Meadow Run Natural Waterslides parking lot.
Favorite Streamside Hikes in Pennsylvania
Falls Trail at Ricketts Glen State Park
Luzerne County
https://www.pa.gov/agencies/dcnr/recreation/where-to-go/state-parks/find-a-park/ricketts-glen-state-park/hiking
A 7.2 loop trail system with shorter options located in the Glens Natural Area, a national natural landmark containing a series of 21 wild free-flowing waterfalls
Meadow Run Trail at Ohiopyle State Park
Fayette County
https://www.pa.gov/agencies/dcnr/recreation/where-to-go/state-parks/find-a-park/ohiopyle-state-park/hiking
A three-mile loop with waterfalls, river views, natural waterslides, and sandstone cliffs
Kelly's Run Trail at Kelly’s Run Nature Preserve
Lancaster County
https://www.lancasterconservancy.org/preserves/kellys-run/
A beautiful 3.8-mile loop national recreation trail that traverses steep terrain with multiple stream crossings and scrambles across bedrock and boulders
Blue Bell, Forbidden Drive, and Orange Trail Loop at Wissahickon Valley Park
Philadelphia County
https://fow.org/
A 2.1-mile loop through a National Natural landmark with varied terrain, beautiful scenery, and enjoyable views of the creek and gorge
Double Run Nature Trail at Worlds End State Park
Sullivan County
https://www.pa.gov/agencies/dcnr/recreation/where-to-go/state-parks/find-a-park/worlds-end-state-park/hiking
A lush 1.2-mile loop past the woodlands, waterfalls, and pools along Double Run in Worlds End State Park and Loyalsock State Forest
Luzerne County
https://www.pa.gov/agencies/dcnr/recreation/where-to-go/state-parks/find-a-park/ricketts-glen-state-park/hiking
A 7.2 loop trail system with shorter options located in the Glens Natural Area, a national natural landmark containing a series of 21 wild free-flowing waterfalls
Meadow Run Trail at Ohiopyle State Park
Fayette County
https://www.pa.gov/agencies/dcnr/recreation/where-to-go/state-parks/find-a-park/ohiopyle-state-park/hiking
A three-mile loop with waterfalls, river views, natural waterslides, and sandstone cliffs
Kelly's Run Trail at Kelly’s Run Nature Preserve
Lancaster County
https://www.lancasterconservancy.org/preserves/kellys-run/
A beautiful 3.8-mile loop national recreation trail that traverses steep terrain with multiple stream crossings and scrambles across bedrock and boulders
Blue Bell, Forbidden Drive, and Orange Trail Loop at Wissahickon Valley Park
Philadelphia County
https://fow.org/
A 2.1-mile loop through a National Natural landmark with varied terrain, beautiful scenery, and enjoyable views of the creek and gorge
Double Run Nature Trail at Worlds End State Park
Sullivan County
https://www.pa.gov/agencies/dcnr/recreation/where-to-go/state-parks/find-a-park/worlds-end-state-park/hiking
A lush 1.2-mile loop past the woodlands, waterfalls, and pools along Double Run in Worlds End State Park and Loyalsock State Forest
Favorite Children's Hikes in Pennsylvania
Hopewell Big Woods Trail in French Creek State Park
Berks County
https://www.pa.gov/agencies/dcnr/recreation/where-to-go/state-parks/find-a-park/french-creek-state-park
A 2.2-mile one-way trail that goes through towering trees that house a variety of birds before arriving at the historic Hopewell Furnace site, where one can walk past historic buildings.
East Shore Trail at Wildwood Park
Dauphin County
https://explorewildwoodpark.org
.9-mile one-way hike along a lake that a variety of birds frequent. Bring your binoculars and Merlin app!
Woodland Ecology Trail at Kings Gap Environmental Education Center
Cumberland County
https://www.pa.gov/agencies/dcnr/recreation/where-to-go/state-parks/find-a-park/kings-gap-environmental-education-center
.7-mile loop hike focused on teaching about tree species. Ample other trails are nearby, allowing you to create longer loops that take in the scenic views of Cumberland County.
Balanced Rock Trail in Trough Creek State Park
Huntingdon County
https://www.pa.gov/agencies/dcnr/recreation/where-to-go/state-parks/find-a-park/trough-creek-state-park
.25-mile one-way hike over a suspension bridge, past a fall, and arriving at Balanced Rock- a great place to picnic! There's plenty to marvel at for both children and adults.
Ferncliff Trail in Ohiopyle State Park
Fayette County
https://www.pa.gov/agencies/dcnr/recreation/where-to-go/state-parks/find-a-park/ohiopyle-state-park/hiking
A 1.7-mile loop trail skirting a peninsula on the Ohiopyle River that passes numerous falls.
Berks County
https://www.pa.gov/agencies/dcnr/recreation/where-to-go/state-parks/find-a-park/french-creek-state-park
A 2.2-mile one-way trail that goes through towering trees that house a variety of birds before arriving at the historic Hopewell Furnace site, where one can walk past historic buildings.
East Shore Trail at Wildwood Park
Dauphin County
https://explorewildwoodpark.org
.9-mile one-way hike along a lake that a variety of birds frequent. Bring your binoculars and Merlin app!
Woodland Ecology Trail at Kings Gap Environmental Education Center
Cumberland County
https://www.pa.gov/agencies/dcnr/recreation/where-to-go/state-parks/find-a-park/kings-gap-environmental-education-center
.7-mile loop hike focused on teaching about tree species. Ample other trails are nearby, allowing you to create longer loops that take in the scenic views of Cumberland County.
Balanced Rock Trail in Trough Creek State Park
Huntingdon County
https://www.pa.gov/agencies/dcnr/recreation/where-to-go/state-parks/find-a-park/trough-creek-state-park
.25-mile one-way hike over a suspension bridge, past a fall, and arriving at Balanced Rock- a great place to picnic! There's plenty to marvel at for both children and adults.
Ferncliff Trail in Ohiopyle State Park
Fayette County
https://www.pa.gov/agencies/dcnr/recreation/where-to-go/state-parks/find-a-park/ohiopyle-state-park/hiking
A 1.7-mile loop trail skirting a peninsula on the Ohiopyle River that passes numerous falls.
