10 Best Hiking And Trekking Spots In Pennsylvania, USA

hiking in pa
Nduku
Nduku 
Updated
| 4 min read

The diverse natural landscape makes Pennsylvania a perfect tourist destination. Just to mention a few, you will explore scenic features such as mountains, waterfalls, hills, and many more. The buildings you’ll see on your way around town depict the region’s multicultural background. You will find restaurants offering delicious food originating in different parts of the world. The bustling city streets set an amazing vibe that you will find captivating and would want to traverse. However, if you are a hiker and would love to take a stroll amid the greens, read on. Here is a list of the best hiking and trekking spots in Pennsylvania, USA, for a lovely excursion with your friends and family.

1. Montour Trail

Montour Trail 2
Source: Photo by user Chris Winters used under CC BY-SA 2.0

Extending for approximately 47 miles (76 kilometres) from Clairton to Coraopolis is the beautiful Montour Trail. This trail does not require a car or any transport for that matter. It would be the best experience to hike across the terrain. The trail connects with other paths that you will get to see while on your sightseeing adventure. Furthermore, a section of the trail connects to Pittsburgh International Airport too.

Montour Trail

Address: Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA

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2. Standing Stone Trail

Starting zero feet from trailhead
Source: Photo by user daveynin used under CC BY 2.0

Enjoy glancing at the scenic beauty as you hike Standing Stone Trail. The 80 miles (128 kilometres) stretch takes you through a series of breathtaking views around you. Additionally, you will be able to spot animals such as bobcats, snakes, bears, and many more. To know the trail markings, you should be able to spot orange markings on trees and small structures. You will also find narrow ridges and a strenuous terrain that requires good boots.

Standing Stone Trail

Address: Pennsylvania 17004, USA

Website: Standing Stone Trail

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3. Pine Creek Rail Trail

Pine Creek Rail Trail
Source: Photo by user Ruhrfisch used under CC BY-SA 3.0

Trek the beautiful Pine Creek Rail Trail and admire the picturesque avenue. The terrain is generally flat so you won’t have a hard time navigating through it. All year round, you will enjoy different activities that will complete your holiday experience. Some of the activities you will get to participate in include kayaking down the rapids and skiing down the hill during winter. Also, you can camp at certain areas of the trail.

Pine Creek Rail Trail

Address: 4797 Rte. 660, PA 16901-7252

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4. Perkiomen Trail

Perkiomen Trail Upper Salford
Source: Photo by user Montgomery County... used under CC BY-SA 2.0

Get the best view of Pennsylvania landscape as you go for a spectacular sightseeing adventure at Perkiomen Trail. The trail has various must-see spots. As you go through the journey, bond with your loved ones or have deep conversations. The trail lies close to Forge National Historical Park thus you will be able to see a wide range of animals. The trail also passes through several towns with unique architectural structures.

Perkiomen Trail

Address: Pennsylvania, USA

Website: Perkiomen Trail

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5. Ferncliff Trail

Ferne Clyffe State Park
Source: Photo by user Curtis Abert used under CC BY 2.0

Visit Ferncliff Trail and get a glimpse of the magnificent waterfalls with your friends or family. It is a 3.2 km (2 mi) loop that is moderately trafficked and situated close to Ohiopyle. The trail is a section of Ohiopyle State Park and it is recommended for hikers of all ages and skill. The trail is accessible throughout the year and welcomes your furry pet, although they need to be leashed.

Ferncliff Trail

Address: Sr2010, Dunbar, PA 15431, United States

Website: Ferncliff Trail

Opening hours: 8am - 4pm (daily)

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6. Old Loggers Path

Backpacker's View
Source: Photo by user Martin used under CC BY 2.0

The 43.6 km (27.1 mi) loop trail is an awesome destination for those who would want to have a closer look at Pennsylvania nature’s gem. The fascinating flora and fauna should not deter your conviction to keep walking the moderately trafficked loop. Based in Ralston, the trail features a splendid waterfall and is recommended for expert hikers only. For those campers, hikers, birders and backpackers, plan your adventure between April and October, because beyond those months any adventure would either be very risky, or not supported by the park.

Old Loggers Path

Address: Pleasant Stream Rd, Canton, PA 17724, United States

Website: Old Loggers Path

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

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7. Falls Trail

Ricketts Glen State Park Ozone Falls 3
Source: Photo by user Ruhrfisch used under CC BY-SA 4.0

Make the best out of your holiday by trekking across Fails Trail. The region has more than 20 waterfalls. The 6.7 miles (10 kilometres) loop is a strenuous one and would require comfortable shoes. It is a difficult trail only to be treaded by professional and intermediate hikers. A camera will be a good accessory in case you want to capture the exceptional views around you for keepsake. Furthermore, if you happen to visit this destination during winter do remember to bring safety equipment like ropes and an ice axe so as to navigate the terrain easily.

Falls Trail

Address: Ricketts Glen Falls Trail, Benton, PA 17814, United States

Website: Falls Trail

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8. Marion Brooks Trails

Teaberry Trail (Revisited) (5)
Source: Photo by Flickr user Nicholas A. Tonelli used under CC BY 2.0

Escape the ever-busy city life and head to Marion Brooks Trails for a peaceful sightseeing adventure. It is a 5 km (3.1 mi) loop near Weedville, Pennsylvania. The trail passes a forest land and is fine for hikers of all skill levels. You will expect jaw-dropping scenery as thin blades of sunlight pass through the thick vegetation. At the top of the hill, you will get a panoramic view of the surrounding scenic landscape.

Marion Brooks Trails

Address: Quehenna Highway Benezette Township, PA 15868

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9. Shingletown Gap


This is a short 3.7 km (2.3 mi) trail wherein you can feel the calming touch of nature. The hike is easy and starts at the base of Maintain Road. It familiarises you with the Shingletown Gap area. On this fascinating trail you will come across waterfalls, streams, old dilapidated buildings, a log bridge and so much greenery all around. This is a perfect rail to hike with friends or family.

Shingletown Gap

Address: 16827, Mountain Rd, State College, PA 16801, United States

Website: Shingletown Gap

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10. Mount Nittany Trailhead


If you are looking for a great way to spend your holiday then head to Mount Nittany Trail for a beautiful outdoor excursion. It is a blessing for the locals and a boon for the visiting hikers. Know that the well-known Mike Lynch Overlook offers you a birds-eye view that includes Bryce Jordan Center and Beaver Stadium. It is a challenging hike to be treaded by experts and intermediates only. The trail is a well-maintained loop and takes about three to three-and-a-half hours to hike. So make sure you wear cosy shoes with good soles. Do not light fire here as it might lead to a major disaster.

Mount Nittany Trailhead

Address: 500 Mount Nittany Rd, Lemont, PA 16851, United States

Website: Mount Nittany Trailhead

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Hikers should visit Pennsylvania to explore splendid trails

Pennsylvania has always been perfect for those who would love to enjoy the scenic beauty. The region offers innumerable long and short trails that are indeed praiseworthy. Adventurous travellers and professional hikers must give it a shot to create memories of a lifetime.

Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
Disclosure: Trip101 selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

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Nduku Mulwa is an accomplished online freelancer with a penchant for travel. She has explored various countries, including Canada, South Africa, Ghana, and Japan, in pursuit of stunning landscapes,...Read more

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