Benable — create shareable lists of things you recommend!
E.g., products you love, local businesses, travel recs - you can add anything to a Benable list!

Allegheny National Forest Visitors’ Guide

Purple Star emoji 18 items
The Allegheny National Forest is one of my favorite places to go for a weekend getaway in Pennsylvania. There are miles and miles of trails, scenic overlooks, and fantastic small towns to spend the night (or the evening). These are my top recommendat...
Map
Sections
5
 
 
 
 
 

Hikes & Outdoors

Spending some time outdoors is a must when you visit the ANF. These are the trails you’re going to want to explore.
 
Samantha M profile picture
The Allegheny National Forest is not known to be overrun with waterfalls, but it is home to maybe the most unique waterfall in Pennsylvania, Hector Falls. They are all reached with short hikes, and worth visiting!
4 Allegheny National Forest Waterfalls You Must Visit
placeholder
 
Samantha M profile picture
I think Hector Falls might be the most unique waterfall in Pennsylvania.  The hike is relatively easy to reach, but the parking area is small. If it is full, circle back later!
How to Get to Hector Falls in the Allegheny National Forest
 
Samantha M profile picture
This is a must-visit spot in the ANF region to really get an idea of how powerful nature is.  You'll definitely want to get a look at the views from the top, but you can also hike the whole way down to the valley floor for a different perspective.
The Kinzua Skywalk: Breathtaking Views in Kinzua Bridge State Park
 
Samantha M profile picture
This one gets quite busy, especially on the weekends as the weather warms up. It's a great place for introductory backpacking or a longer day hike if you're willing to brave the crowds.
Minister Creek Hiking Trail
 
Samantha M profile picture
A beautiful spot overlooking the Kinzua Reservoir and Dam, it's an easy hike to see the views.
Rimrock Overlook
 
Samantha M profile picture
If you want to include Rimrock in a longer hike, check out the Morrison Trail. There are some really scenic views!
Morrison Trail Loop

Unique Museums & Road Trip Stops

When you're tired of hiking the trails, or if you hit a rainy day, there are plenty of other things to do in the Allegheny National Forest region. These are some unique must-visit spots.

 
Samantha M profile picture
Learn everything you ever wanted to know about the Zippo lighter here at the original location.
Zippo / Case Museum & Flagship Store
 
Samantha M profile picture
If you're interested in the history of the oil industry in the US, this is a must stop. The staff is so knowledgable.
Penn-Brad Oil Museum
 
Samantha M profile picture
This thing is such a feat of engineering. A quick stop, but you'll want to see this. There is also an overlook headed back down from the Rimrock Overlook where you can get a bird's eye view!
Kinzua Dam

Where to Stay

Whether you want to camp in the backcountry, find a spot to park your RV, relax in a unique cabin, or enjoy the comforts of a hotel, these are the top places to stay in and around the ANF.

 
Samantha M profile picture
If you're looking for an upscale lodge in a wooded setting, this is it. We haven't stayed here yet, but we've heard so many great things!
The Lodge at Glendorn
 
Samantha M profile picture
A unique bed & breakfast with extremely welcoming hosts Of course, the breakfast is great!
Kane Manor Inn
 
Samantha M profile picture
All of the comforts of a hotel, this one is easy to get to.  If you want something familiar, this is it.
Hampton Inn & Suites Warren
 
Samantha M profile picture
This is the perfect little cottage with room to roam and 3 bedrooms to accommodate a few more family members or friends.
The Ultimate All Season Retreat: Cabin in Westline in the ANF

Delicious Places to Eat & Drink

Sometimes, we enjoy a little takeout, but there are also fantastic places to sit down and have a meal. That is, when you’re not spending time cooking over your campfire!
 
Samantha M profile picture
Coal-fired brick oven pizzas and right on Main Street. The restaurant is comfy and you won't leave hungry!
Pepe's Pizzeria
 
Samantha M profile picture
This is a cute little spot to stop when you're tired of hiking. We enjoyed trying the reds!
Allegheny Cellars Winery

Must-Visit Small Towns

When you’re done exploring for the day, pick a small town, grab a bite to eat, or spend the night in a local B&B.
 
Samantha M profile picture
Bradford is home to a historic disctrict with some really cool old buildings/mansions. You can take a walking tour of the historic district.
Bradford, PA
 
Samantha M profile picture
Kane isn't far from the Kinzua Bridge, and we've used it as our home base for exploring the ANF.  There are some great restaurant options and the brewery is fun, too.
Kane, PA
placeholder
 
Samantha M profile picture
On the edge of the ANF, this is kind of a western gateway town.  It is a little bit bigger than the others, and there are some great shops to visit.
Warren, PA