Summer promises longer days, warmer weather, and plenty of sun, making it ideal to spend as much time as you possibly can outdoors. Fortunately, whatever part of the state you live in, you will find plenty to do outdoors – from geocaching to photographing the state's iconic covered bridges. Here are 11 epic outdoorsy things in Pennsylvania anyone can do.

1. View Pennsylvania's elk aboard a covered wagon.

Capture the sheer beauty of the elk in Pennsylvania aboard a covered wagon at the

Elk Country Visitors Center in Benezette. Wagon tours – and sleigh tours in the winter – are typically offered on weekends, weather permitting. Reserve your spot on the wagon or the sleigh at least 24 hours in advance of your visit. For the best chance of seeing elk, schedule your visit for around dawn or dusk.

2. Go geocaching.

Remember going on scavenger hunts as a kid? And how excited you were when you found the treasure before everyone else? Geocaching is the modern day scavenger hunt, generally requiring a smart phone or a GPS. Anyone in Pennsylvania – no matter where you live – can join in the fun. Check out the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources for a comprehensive list of statewide geocaching sites by clicking

" target="_blank">here.

3. Visit Buzzard Swamp Wildlife Viewing Area.

Discover the beauty of Pennsylvania's natural landscape and wildlife – and don't forget your binoculars – at Buzzard Swamp Wildlife Viewing Area in Marienville. For an easy hike, head to Forest Head 157, the start of the Songbird Sojourn Interpretive Trail, which runs one and a half miles. Keep your eyes peeled all around you because you might just be lucky enough to spot waterfowl, beavers, coyotes, and bald eagles. Use this

" target="_blank">map from the USDA to make your journey easier and safer.

4. Drop by Punxsutawney Phil's Burrow.

Don't wait for Groundhog's Day to show your appreciation for that fuzzy little fellow, Phil. Stop by Phil's Burrow

in Punxsutawney's Barclay Square, any day of the year to say hello. The world's most popular groundhog lives in a spacious burrow, with outside windows for your viewing pleasure, at the Punxsutawney Memorial Library.

5. Hike to Beartown Rocks.

Nestled in Clear Creek State Park lie Beartown Rocks, majestic boulders that formed from glaciers. Hiking around Beartown Rocks is easy and provides the perfect opportunity to see Pennsylvania's wildlife. Climb the natural stairs to a vista that overlooks the valley for a picture-perfect view. To get to Beartown Rocks: Starting at Sigel, follow Route 949N for approximately a mile then turn right when you come to Spring Creek Road. Drive a mile before turning left on Corbett Road. Continue for a little over a quarter of a mile and you'll see the Beartown Rocks entrance on the left.

6. Stop by Lighthouse Island.

Explore Lighthouse Island, a nearly 23 acre island on the Allegheny River in Tionesta, along the easy one mile hike or go fishing before visiting the 75-foot tall Sherman Memorial Lighthouse. Ascend the lighthouse via a spiral staircase to enjoy a breathtaking view of the island and beyond. Visitors unable to climb stairs can watch a free film, which includes a video tour, of the lighthouse. For days and times the lighthouse is open, please click here.

7. Stroll through Scripture Rocks Heritage Park.

Over 100 years ago, Douglas Stahlman began carving messages – philosophical, religious, and political – on boulders in Brookville in Jefferson County. Visitors to what is now Scripture Rocks Heritage Park, which officially opened on June 11, can hike the easy trails to view the 65 boulders that also provide insight into local history. Visitors are advised to allot a minimum of two hours to tour the scripture rocks and admission is free. Learn more by clicking here.

8. Take off on a hot air balloon ride.

Get a bird's eye view of the gorgeous Pennsylvania countryside in Bucks County aboard a hot air balloon run by US Hot Air Balloon Team. The three hour experience includes helping the hot air balloon crew to set up your balloon, an hour ride high above Pennsylvania, and a champagne toast after you land. Learn more about hot air balloon ride opportunities in Pennsylvania by clicking here.

9. Tour the countryside of Western Pennsylvania aboard Kiski Railroad.

Uncover the unparalleled beauty of Southwestern Pennsylvania aboard

Kiski Junction Railroad, which goes from the railroad station in Schenley to Johnetta and back. The summer tour season runs on Fridays and Saturdays from June 3 to September 30. Be sure to also check out the special tours at Halloween and Christmas.

10. Photograph Pennsylvania's covered bridges, Laurel Highlands.

Hundreds of covered bridges dot the Pennsylvania landscape but Lancaster is tops as the area with the most at 29. Regardless of what corner of the state you call home, you'll find a covered bridge – perfect for photography – within a reasonable distance. Find a comprehensive list of covered bridges throughout the state here.

11. Get a spectacular view of Pittsburgh aboard the Duquesne Incline.

Engage in a centuries-old Pittsburgh tradition: climbing up the side of Mount Washington aboard the Duquesne Incline. Every seat promises a spectacular view of the Pittsburgh skyline, which slowly unfolds as the cable car inches its way to the top. Once atop Mount Washington, stroll to the nearby observation deck to enjoy the stunning view and to take photographs.

Pennsylvania is such an amazing state with so many outdoor things to do. What would you add to the part two, if there was to be one, of the list of 11 epic outdoorsy activities in Pennsylvania anyone can do?