Sometimes life is just too busy. Carving out time to simply relax and recharge can be a challenge for most people. Fortunately, you'll find plenty of peaceful places in Pennsylvania that will bring you closer to nature, inspire you, and help you to relax. Here are just 10 of them.
1. Sahli Nature Park – 194 McKinley Road, Beaver Falls, PA 15010
Sit on a bench and watch the ducks swim gracefully in the nearby pond. Kick your legs high in the air on the swings (designed for both kids and adults. Dangle your feet in the water as the melody of the nearby waterfall relaxes you at Sahli Nature Park. The 90 acres of lush forest features quaint footbridges and hiking trails that are compatible with hikers of all skill levels. Check out the Facebook page of Sahli Nature Park.
2. Hammersley Wild Area – Austin, PA 16720
One of the most peaceful places in Pennsylvania, Hammersley Wild Area is also the most isolated area in the state. Sprawled across 30,000 acres in Potter and Clinton counties, the protected land attracts hikers, photographers, and nature lovers. Discover the pristine beauty of the area by hiking a 10-mile loop trail that will take you over charming footbridges, by waterfalls, and to scenic overlooks. Learn more about Hammersley Wild Area.
3. Black Moshannon State Park – 4216 Beaver Road, Philipsburg, PA 16866
Find peace and quiet at Black Moshannon State Park, nearly 3,400 acres of wetlands and lush forest. Hike one of the 20 miles of trails (each trail ranges from easiest hiking to most difficult hiking). Go horseback riding or mountain biking. Enjoy a picnic lunch at a picturesque picnic table. Or, bring your boat for a day of boating around Black Moshannon Lake. Check out the official website of Black Moshannon State Park.
4. Austin T. Blakeslee Natural Area – Blakeslee, PA 18610
Embrace solitude at Austin T. Blakeslee Natural Area, a protected land that features walking trails, footbridges, the breathtaking Tobyhanna Falls, and fishing in Tobyhanna Creek.
5. Seven Tubs Natural Area – 900 Bear Creek Boulevard, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18702
Discover unspoiled beauty at Seven Tubs Natural Area where you can hike along a tree-lined trail, dip your feet in the cool tubs of water (swimming is prohibited), or picnic on the water's banks. Learn more about Seven Tubs Nature Area.
6. Strawberry Hill Nature Preserve – 1537 Mt Hope Road, Fairfield, PA 17320
Escape the busyness of life with a visit to Strawberry Hill Nature Preserve. Find peace and quiet among nature when you hike one of the park's six trails. Strawberry Hill Nature Preserve also hosts events, including Community Day, throughout the year and offers programs such as a summer adventure camp. Here's the official website of Strawberry Hill.
7. Cherry Springs State Park – 4639 Cherry Springs Road, Coudersport, PA 16915
Drink in unspoiled views of the nighttime sky at Cherry Springs State Park, one of the best places for stargazing on the eastern seaboard. Nestled within the Susquehannock State Forest, the park spans 82 acres and is a popular spot with both novice and seasoned stargazers. Check out the official website of Cherry Springs State Park.
8. Isle of Que
A picturesque island only 5.5 miles long, Isle of Que is just across Penns Creek from the charming town of Selinsgrove and is accessible by a bridge. The enchanting island - dotted with homes - offers an abundance of opportunities for peace and quiet: Sit on a bench overlooking the river, go boating, take a stroll around the island, or sit on the bank's of the water to watch the sun set at the end of the day. Visit the Facebook page for Isle of Que.
9. LaPorte Haystacks – Loyalsock State Forest, Fox Township, PA 18616
Discover one of Pennsylvania's natural wonders when you visit Loyalsock State Forest. Hike along the Loyalsock Trail or the Haystacks Trail, both of which will lead you to the beautiful LaPorte Haystacks. The haystacks earned their moniker because the large rocks in Loyalsock Creek look like bales of hay protruding out of the water. Learn more at the official website of Loyalsock State Forest.
10. Bear Creek Preserve – 47 Rabbit Run Lane, Bear Creek Twp, PA 18702
Bear Creek Preserve spans more than 3,400 acres in the Lehigh River Watershed. Wear sturdy hiking shoes if you plan to hike any of the 31 miles of unpaved trails that will take you through forests and valleys. Embrace the beauty of nature as you come face-to-face with local wildlife, cross over babbling brooks, and watch the gushing waterfalls. Visit the official website of Bear Creek Preserve.
Embrace sheer bliss when you visit these 10 peaceful places in Pennsylvania. What others would you add to this list? Let us know in the comments! Then head out on one of the 11 best trips in PA that are sure to leave you with unforgettable memories.
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