Test Yourself in the "Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania"
The climbs on the Black Forest Trail are serious—but then again, so is the scenery.
Pennsylvania Trails
Pennsylvania is almost entirely covered by mountains and forest, and hiking in PA is always an adventure. The Appalachian Mountains, comprised of the Allegheny and Pocano ranges, cut through the center of the state. The 2,184-mile-long Appalachian National Scenic Trail, generally known as the Appalachian Trail, extends between Springer Mountain in Georgia and Mount Katahdin in Maine, passes through this area.
The Great Eastern Trail Could Be the Next Appalachian Trail. Here’s How to Hike Part of It Now.
When it's finished, this in-progress long trail will let hikers take a stroll up the Appalachians without battling the AT's crowds.
Latest in Pennsylvania Trails
Go With Those In The Know
Get the scoop on upstate Pennsylvania from Pine Creek Outfitters.
Explore Pine Creek Pennsylvania
New adventure company Crooked Roots Adventures is getting people out on the river.
The Best Day Hikes in America: West Rim-Turkey Path
Colton Point State Park, Pennsylvania
Hike Pennsylvania's Only Wilderness Trails
Explore the northern Alleghenies' hardwoods on this 12.8-mile trek.
Pittsburgh, PA: Shorb's Summit via 1,000 Steps Trail
Start on the 1,000 Steps Trail and then continue up Jacks Mountain to Shorb's Summit for a grand vista.
Philadelphia: Pinnacle and Pulpit Rocks
This sometimes-steep 6.8-mile loop climbs hillsides carpeted with mountain laurel and hardwoods to two sweeping vistas overlooking the Lehigh and Cumberland Valleys.
Philadelphia: Wind Gap to Smith Shelter
This 8.8-mile, out-and-back wooded hike runs the spine of the Appalachian Mountains to one of the most remote AT shelters in Pennsylvania.
Philadelphia: Blue Mountain
Hike the backbone of eastern Pennsylvania on this moderate 10.8-mile round-trip along the AT, which visits craggy overlooks with stellar views of eagles and hawks.
Philadelphia: Boone Trail
Spend a sunny afternoon on this 6.1-miler hike among the hardwoods of French Creek State Park, skirting two lakes with pleasant picnic spots.
Scranton, PA: Falls Trail Loop to Adams Falls
Pass 21 waterfalls on this 6.2-mile, five-star loop through a wrinkled ravine and tranquil forest in Ricketts Glen State Park.
Philadelphia: Ridley Creek State Park
Re-energize yourself on the White-Yellow Loop, a mellow 4.4-mile lasso to a serene picnic spot in this small park just 16 miles from center city.
Philadelphia: Lock 12 Loop
Explore canal relics and tucked-away overlooks of the Mason-Dixon Trail on this 3.6-mile dayhike in Holtwood Environmental Preserve.
Harrisburg, PA: Governor Dick Park
This 7.9-mile stretch of Pennsylvania's historic 140-mile Horse-Shoe Trail boasts lookout-tower views, isolated terrain, and plenty of wildlife.
Pittsburgh, PA: North Park Bridle Trail
This 5.8-miler in Allegheny County's sprawling North Park visits maple and oak forests, babbling creeks, and a scenic overlook.
Cleveland, OH: Slippery Rock Gorge Trail
Cross rushing creek, natural rock bridges, and a rugged gorge on this challenging 11.4-mile daytrip in McConnell's Mill State Park.
Renovo, PA: Bucktail Path
Discover one of Pennsylvania’s wild secrets in the Elk State Forest.
Lassen Volcanic National Park: Rainbow-Snag Lakes Loop
Tour lava beds, painted dunes, and a dormant volcano on this 12-mile hike in Lassen Volcanic National Park.
Erie, PA: Minister Creek Loop
This 6.4-miler loops through the lush forest surrounding Minister Creek, passing glacial boulders, wooded caves, and a plethora of streams.