When most people think of Pennsylvania, they might first consider its rich history, the Liberty Bell, or perhaps even cheesesteaks. However, Pennsylvania is home to some of the most stunning natural wonders that many travelers often overlook. Nestled between its rolling hills, dense forests, and sprawling rivers are breathtaking geological formations, majestic waterfalls, and serene state parks that leave nature lovers in awe. In this post, we’ll explore seven natural wonders in Pennsylvania that will inspire you to hit the road and immerse yourself in the state’s beauty.

1. The Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania (Pine Creek Gorge)

Overview

Known as the “Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania,” Pine Creek Gorge is a magnificent landscape that stretches over 45 miles and plunges to depths of 1,450 feet. This vast, V-shaped canyon is carved out by Pine Creek, meandering through the Tioga State Forest and offering visitors a striking view of forests, cliffs, and the waterway below.

Location

The Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania is located primarily in Tioga County, near the towns of Wellsboro and Ansonia.

Why It’s a Wonder

The sheer size and depth of Pine Creek Gorge make it an unmissable destination for any nature lover. During the fall, the gorge transforms into a kaleidoscope of colors, with vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows painting the landscape. Additionally, visitors can hike along scenic trails, enjoy vistas from Leonard Harrison State Park, or kayak along the creek.

Activities

• Hiking: The Turkey Path Trail offers an intense yet rewarding hike down to the canyon floor.
• Biking: The Pine Creek Rail Trail runs along the bottom of the gorge, providing a more relaxed way to take in the scenery.
• Wildlife Viewing: Keep your eyes peeled for bald eagles, black bears, and other wildlife in their natural habitat.

2. Bushkill Falls

Overview

Bushkill Falls, often called the “Niagara of Pennsylvania,” is a series of eight stunning waterfalls located deep within the Pocono Mountains. The main waterfall cascades nearly 100 feet down a steep cliff, creating a mesmerizing spectacle.

Location

Bushkill Falls is situated in northeastern Pennsylvania, within the Pocono Mountains region, and is easily accessible from major cities like Philadelphia and New York.

Why It’s a Wonder

Bushkill Falls is one of Pennsylvania’s most scenic natural attractions, offering a combination of waterfalls, lush greenery, and rustic wooden walkways that allow visitors to get up close to the water. Its unique layout makes it feel like a hidden gem, tucked away in a serene forest landscape.

Activities

• Hiking Trails: There are four different trails, ranging from easy to moderate, offering different views of the falls.
• Fishing: Nearby streams and ponds are perfect for fishing, offering a peaceful way to enjoy the surrounding nature.
• Bird Watching: The falls are home to a variety of bird species, making it a haven for birdwatchers.

3. Hickory Run Boulder Field

Overview

One of the most unusual natural wonders in Pennsylvania, the Hickory Run Boulder Field is an 18-acre sea of boulders, some as large as 26 feet, left behind by glaciers over 20,000 years ago.

Location

Hickory Run State Park in Carbon County, about 30 minutes from the city of Jim Thorpe, is home to the Boulder Field.

Why It’s a Wonder

The Boulder Field is a geological marvel. It’s a remnant of the Ice Age and a testament to the Earth’s dynamic natural history. The sprawling landscape of grey rocks and stones, stretching as far as the eye can see, creates an otherworldly atmosphere that seems both stark and serene.

Activities

• Walking the Boulder Field: Visitors can explore the field, hopping from rock to rock, and immerse themselves in this geological anomaly.
• Picnicking: The park surrounding the field offers beautiful picnic spots where you can relax and enjoy nature.
• Camping: Hickory Run State Park features numerous camping sites for an overnight stay.

4. Ricketts Glen State Park and Waterfalls

Overview

Ricketts Glen State Park is one of Pennsylvania’s crown jewels, encompassing over 13,000 acres of forest and featuring 24 named waterfalls. The tallest, Ganoga Falls, drops 94 feet and is one of the most beautiful in the state.

Location

Ricketts Glen State Park is located in north-central Pennsylvania, primarily within Luzerne, Sullivan, and Columbia counties.

Why It’s a Wonder

The park’s main attraction is the Falls Trail, a 7.2-mile loop that takes hikers past 21 waterfalls in just one hike. The combination of towering hemlocks, cool forest air, and the constant sound of rushing water makes Ricketts Glen an unforgettable destination.

Activities

• Hiking the Falls Trail: This trail takes you up close to the park’s most impressive waterfalls.
• Swimming: Lake Jean offers swimming areas during the summer months.
• Boating and Fishing: Lake Jean is also popular for fishing and non-motorized boating.

5. Presque Isle State Park

Overview

Located on a sandy peninsula that arches into Lake Erie, Presque Isle State Park offers miles of beaches, diverse wildlife habitats, and beautiful views of the water.

Location

Presque Isle State Park is situated near Erie, Pennsylvania, on the shores of Lake Erie.

Why It’s a Wonder

Presque Isle is unique in its landscape, offering a mix of sandy beaches, lagoons, wetlands, and forests. It’s a haven for birdwatchers, as the park is home to many migrating birds. Additionally, the sunsets over Lake Erie are known to be some of the most stunning in the state.

Activities

• Beachgoing: Presque Isle has 11 miles of beach, making it a perfect spot for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing.
• Biking and Hiking: The park has several scenic trails for biking and hiking.
• Kayaking and Boating: The lagoons and calm waters of Lake Erie make this park ideal for water sports.

6. The Laurel Caverns

Overview

Pennsylvania’s largest cave system, Laurel Caverns, is a labyrinth of tunnels and passages winding through the Allegheny Mountains. It’s a favorite spot for spelunkers and geology enthusiasts.

Location

Laurel Caverns is located near Uniontown, Pennsylvania, about an hour’s drive southeast of Pittsburgh.

Why It’s a Wonder

The underground beauty of the Laurel Caverns is striking, with its massive limestone formations, narrow tunnels, and deep chambers. The caverns stretch over three miles, making them the largest natural cave system in the state. Visitors can experience both guided tours of the more accessible areas or challenge themselves with “wild caving” excursions through the cave’s undeveloped parts.

Activities

• Guided Tours: Learn about the history and geology of the caves on a guided tour.
• Spelunking: For the more adventurous, “wild” tours offer an off-the-beaten-path exploration of the caverns.
• Rappelling: Laurel Caverns offers unique opportunities for rappelling inside the cave.

7. Kinzua Bridge State Park and Skywalk

Overview

Once the longest and tallest railway bridge in the world, the Kinzua Bridge was partially destroyed by a tornado in 2003. However, the remaining structure was transformed into a skywalk, offering breathtaking views of the Kinzua Gorge.

Location

Kinzua Bridge State Park is located in McKean County in northwestern Pennsylvania.

Why It’s a Wonder

The Kinzua Skywalk stretches over 600 feet into the gorge and stands 225 feet above the forest floor. Walking out onto the glass-bottomed portion of the skywalk is both exhilarating and terrifying, offering a unique perspective of the natural landscape below. The remnants of the bridge also serve as a reminder of the raw power of nature.

Activities

• Skywalk Experience: Take a walk on the glass-bottom platform for stunning views of the gorge.
• Hiking: The park features several trails, including one that leads to the bottom of the gorge.
• Photography: The panoramic views of the gorge and surrounding forest are perfect for photography enthusiasts.

Comparison of Pennsylvania’s Natural Wonders

Below is a table comparing some of the key characteristics of the seven natural wonders in Pennsylvania:

Conclusion

Pennsylvania is brimming with natural wonders that cater to all types of outdoor enthusiasts, from waterfall chasers and hikers to birdwatchers and geology buffs. Whether you’re walking across the stunning Kinzua Skywalk or hiking the challenging trails of Ricketts Glen, each site offers its own unique slice of the state’s natural beauty.

So next time you’re looking for an escape from the city or a chance to reconnect with nature, consider visiting one (or all) of these seven breathtaking natural wonders in Pennsylvania. Whether you’re in search of tranquil waterfalls, sweeping vistas, or fascinating geological features, Pennsylvania has something for every outdoor lover.

Let these hidden gems remind you of the incredible beauty that can be found in the Keystone State!