Watch bald eagles soaring, hike through the hilly forests and snap photos of the panoramic views in the Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania.
Pine Creek Gorge is an awe-inspiring canyon featuring cascades and the emerald glow of tree-covered hills. It runs for 47 miles (76 kilometres), with its deepest point sinking to 1,450 feet (440 metres). Learn the history of this fascinating and picturesque canyon, which served as a transportation route for Native Americans.
Go hiking with your family along the zigzagging Pine Creek Rail Trail in the forest. You can also drive along the ridges of the vast gorge. Reach the high points and capture photos of the panoramic vistas.
Stroll along the banks of the scenic Pine Creek and have a picnic while listening to the pleasant sounds of flowing water. Waterfalls and small cascades flow down the hills into small pools that lead into the creek.
Spot some of the animals that inhabit these woods, such as white-tailed deer, black bears, river otters and beavers. Gaze upward to see bald eagles flying overhead. Look for woodpeckers, mourning warblers and hermit thrushes among the other birds. Arrive in the first 2 weeks of October to see the brilliant reds, yellows and oranges of the woodland foliage.
Think about the rich history of the area, which was an important range for Native Americans who hunted here. Quaker colonists arrived in the 17th century and began to carve up the forests to use in the lumber trade that was among Pennsylvania’s key industries. For a change of scenery, visit the adjacent town of Wellsboro. Admire its Victorian mansions and quaint gas-lit alleys.
The park remains open at all times year-round. Pine Creek Gorge is in the Tioga State Forest, between the town of Ansonia and Bald Eagle State Park. It is on Pine Creek in the northern part of central Pennsylvania. See nearby landmarks and sights, such as Tiadaghton State Forest, Little Pine State Park and the West Branch Susquehanna River.
