Pennsylvania is filled with breathtaking trails, from roaring waterfalls and rocky gorges to sweeping mountaintop views and peaceful lakeside walks. This collection highlights 15 of the very best hikes across the Keystone State, whether you are looki...
One of PA’s iconic waterfall hikes: ~6-7 miles loop in Ricketts Glen State Park with 20-plus named falls including towering Ganoga Falls (~94 ft). A photographer’s paradise.
Ricketts Glen Falls Loop, Pennsylvania
A long-distance (~70 mi) trail through southwestern PA: rivers, ridge lines, mixed forest, and multiple shelters. Great for multi-day or pick-and-choose sections.
Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail | Department of Conservation and ...
Deep gorge carved by Pine Creek; vistas from Leonard Harrison & Colton Point. Rim hikes and rail-trail along the creek give both dramatic views and easier walking.
Pine Creek Gorge (PA Grand Canyon) | Pennsylvania
70+ mile loop through Elk & Moshannon State Forests with side trails and connectors. Lots of wilderness, valleys, cascades, meadows; remote and wild.
Quehanna Trail, Pennsylvania - 166 Reviews, Map
Pennsylvania’s highest point (~3,213 ft) in Somerset County with viewing tower and 360-degree views. Lovely for panoramas.
Forbes State Forest Wild and Natural Areas | Department of Conservation ...
The Pinnacle trail is about a ~9-mile loop that climbs to dramatic outlooks, with hawk migration views; picturesque farmland + ridgeline panoramas.
Hawk Mountain Sanctuary
On the PA side of the Delaware Water Gap. ~5 mi round trip from Lake Lenape, ~1,020 ft gain. Offers classic AT exposure and overlook views of the gap.
Mount Minsi via Appalachian Trail, Pennsylvania
Series of eight waterfalls, boardwalks & trails. Accessible, scenic, good variety for families or casual hikers.
Bushkill Falls
About 6.1 mi, very scenic & rugged: gorge, creek, natural bridges, rocky terrain, large boulders. For those who like a more challenging hike.
Slippery Rock Gorge Trail, Pennsylvania
Short but sweet: the Balanced Rock Trail (~0.12 mi from parking for rock + falls), suspension bridge over Great Trough Creek, Rainbow Falls, beautiful geological features.
Hike to Balanced Rock and Rainbow Falls at Trough Creek State Park
Coastal trails along sandy beaches, marshes, lagoons by Lake Erie; mix of nature, water, sunrises/sunsets; great birdwatching.
Presque Isle State Park
A steep 1.4-mile trail up to Pole Steeple Overlook, quartzite outcropping. High views over forested valleys. Great short-steep payoff.
Pole Steeple Trail, Pennsylvania
Part of the long scenic trail network; traverses rugged, remote forest, open hardwoods, rock outcroppings. For backpackers or thru-hikers wanting solitude.
Allegheny National Forest Chapter
Moderate length ~1 mile trail + vista at High Rocks. Very rewarding views of the creek and valley. Great for a half-day or quick hike near Philly region.
Hiking at High Rocks at Ralph Stover and Tohickon Valley Park
Small but iconic: rocky outcrop on the AT with north & south views; popular for hawk & eagle watching. Accessible from nearby parking in the Lehigh Valley.
Bake Oven Knob
These NORTIV 8 women’s low-top boots are light, comfy, and work well for trail & campsite wear. They do fine in wet conditions but aren’t made for standing in water.
Comfortable and lightweight with solid ankle support, these boots are great for day hikes and damp trails. Best for light to moderate use since waterproofing and laces may wear faster on tougher terrain.
Great for balance and reducing strain on knees, especially on uneven terrain. The collapsible design makes them easy to pack, but folding joints can wear or loosen—check locks regularly and tighten when needed.