Gushing waterfalls. The sun setting against the purple and pink of the evening sky. Crossing picturesque footbridges over babbling brooks. Could there be any place more beautiful, more peaceful than the small towns and nature in Pennsylvania? Next time you're searching for something to do, consider taking one of the 11 best trips in Pennsylvania.
1. Waterfall Road Trip
Treat yourself to a relaxing weekend getaway that will take you to some of Pennsylvania's most scenic waterfalls. The 172 mile road trip includes stops at Bushkill Falls, Nay Aug Park, and RIcketts Glen State Park, the latter of which boasts 22 stunning waterfalls. Spend the night at the enchanting Ledges Hotel in Hawley, overlooking Paupack High Falls.
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2. Eagles Mere
Escape to what has been called "The Last Unspoiled Resort," a picturesque village with only 120 full-time residents. Simply stroll around the enchanting village, crossing over a footbridge, stopping in the quaint shops, and checking in to Eagles Mere Inn for a relaxing getaway. Visitors to Eagles Mere in the winter will discover a popular village tradition: A toboggan ride.
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3. Pittsburgh Botanic Garden - 799 Pinkerton Run Road, Oakdale, PA 15071
Spend a leisurely day among the fairies when you day trip to Pittsburgh Botanic Garden, a natural oasis where you'll discover a fairy garden. Feel as though you've stepped into a fairy tale when you pass a pond with shimmering lily pads. Cross the pond on stepping stones and sit in a giant birds' nest before encountering fairy garden.
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4. Bear Creek Preserve – 47 Rabbit Run Lane, Bear Creek Twp, PA 18702
Wrap yourself in nature's beauty when you spend a day at Bear Creek Preserve, where you're welcome to hike across more than 30 miles of unpaved hiking trails. Keep an eye out for wildlife as you cross a fairy tale footbridge and run across gushing waterfalls. Bring your fishing pole for catch and release trout fishing. (Only catch and release fishing is allowed at Bear Creek Preserve.) And, don't forget to stop and smell the flowers.
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5. Renovo
Journey to one of Pennsylvania's most remote towns. The tiny town of Renovo - with a population of only 1,300 in the PA Wilds - is flanked by Kettle Creek State Park and Sproul State Forest. Explore Renovo on foot and discover charming antiques shops, quaint restaurants, and Greater Renovo Heritage Park. Plan a visit during the fall for the annual Flaming Foliage Festival, held in mid-October each year.
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6. Bristol, PA
Get a glimpse of New Jersey across the river when you visit Bristol, Pennsylvania's oldest town. Dating back to 1681, the historic town of Bristol promises plenty to do, including the Margaret R. Grundy Memorial Museum, Silver Lake Nature Center, and the Bristol Riverside Theatre. Click here for more information.
7. Hammersley Wild Area – Austin, PA 16720
Find peace and solitude at Hammersley Wild Area, Pennsylvania's most isolated spot. The natural oasis - sprawled across 30,000 acres - beckons nature lovers, photographers, and hikers with its tranquil setting. Wear your hiking boots to explore PA's second largest wild area that's protected from motor vehicles and development.
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8. Salt Springs State Park – 2305 Salt Springs Road, Montrose, PA 18801
Create your own mini Stonehenge at Salt Springs State Park alongside the other stone artwork previous visitors have left behind. Hike through the pristine state park with its picturesque wooden boardwalk, hemlock trees dating back 300 years, and lush fern floors. Salt Springs State Park, open all year around, offers camping, sledding, and a barn pavilion.
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9. Isle of Que Near Selinsgrove
Plan a trip to Selinsgrove, a charming town that leads to a spectacular 5.5 mile long island, Isle of Que. Cross the Susquehanna River from Selinsgrove to Isle of Que, where you'll discover plenty to do including kayaking, biking, and paddle boarding on the river. Pack a lunch and enjoy a picnic on the river's bank until the sun unveils its stunning finale, sinking behind the water.
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10. Erie Bluffs
Drink in the unspoiled beauty of Erie Bluffs at Erie Bluff State Park, which boasts 540 undeveloped acres of shoreline. Climb atop the 90 foot bluffs to be treated to stunning views of Lake Erie and an endless blue sky. Stop by Elk Creek, the only developed area in the park where you can sit down to a picnic, go fishing, or launch your boat. Click here for more information.
11. Seven Tubs Natural Area
Stroll along winding, tree-lined paths to one of PA's most stunning natural wonders. Zip down a natural water slide at Seven Tubs Natural Area before taking a dip in the shimmering natural tubs. After cooling off in the tubs, go for a hike that will take you by small waterfalls, a picturesque bridge, and a stone tunnel.
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After embarking on the best trips in Pennsylvania, treat yourself to a spooky good time by hitting the road on this haunted road trip that will lead you to PA's most haunted places.
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