5 “Hidden Gems” in Pennsylvania We’ve Always Known About but Can’t Stop Visiting

We live in a huge, beautiful state with so much to explore that we would be forgiven if we have overlooked a few – or maybe even a lot of – hidden gems. But we can probably all agree there are some beloved “hidden gems” in Pennsylvania we’ve heard of and visit whenever we get the chance. Whether you’ve been to these hidden gems in Pennsylvania once, countless times, or have yet to visit, consider adding each to your bucket list.

1. Penn’s Cave & Wildlife Park – Centre Hall

Did you know Penn’s Cave is the only all-water cave in the United States? That alone makes it one of the most beloved hidden gems in Pennsylvania. After you’ve toured the cave in a boat, head aboveground for more fun and to explore the wildlife park. Embark on a 90-minute tour, where you’ll see various animals, including black bears, mountain lions, elk, and bison. Then, go gemstone panning, or escape a 4,800-square-foot maze. The hidden gem in Centre Hall also has a gift shop and a café, where you can indulge in such classics as burgers, hot dogs, and nachos.

Please note the cave closes for the winter and usually reopens in February, while the wildlife park generally returns in April. Book a tour or view hours and days on the official website of Penn’s Cave & Wildlife Park.

2. Pine Creek Gorge – Wellsboro

Affectionately known as the Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania, Pine Creek Gorge draws visitors from around the world with its natural beauty, spectacular views, and hiking trails. Leonard Harrison State Park and Colton Point State Park each promise sensational views of the massive 47-mile-long gorge from scenic overlooks. While the views are awe-inspiring year-round, try to time your visit for the peak of the fall foliage for some of the best leaf peeping in Pennsylvania. Set off on a unique adventure, and explore the base of the canyon on a covered wagon tour. For current times and tours offered, visit the official website of Ole Covered Wagon Tours, Inc.

3. Ohiopyle State Park – Ohiopyle

Spanning more than 20,000 acres, Ohiopyle State Park is my favorite hidden gem, a breathtaking natural wonder with several waterfalls, including two easily accessible cascades. Cucumber Falls and Ohiopyle Falls sit within a short walk of their respective parking lots and, if you’re visiting during the summer, zip down the Meadow Run Natural Waterslide. The park is also home to nearly 80 miles of trails. My favorite is the Ferncliff Trail, an easy hike that offers another view of Ohiopyle Falls and other smaller waterfalls.

4. Hammersley Wild Area – Austin

One of the most remote areas in Pennsylvania, Hammersley Wild Area in Susquehannock State Forest promises the tranquility that sometimes feels absent from daily life. Four trails meander through the more than 30,000-acre natural area where cell phone service is spotty at best, and motor vehicles are not permitted. Tallying 8.1 miles, the Twin Sisters Trail is the shortest of the four and the easiest, scoring a moderate rating, while the other three are considered hard.

The wild area features sprawling forests, streams, plateaus, and valleys. Because it is remote and cell service is unreliable, let someone know where you will be and when you expect to return, and take everything you need, including water, snacks, and maps, to ensure a safe journey. Consult AllTrails+ to download trail maps and for up-to-date weather conditions.

5. Ringing Rocks Park – Upper Black Eddy

Grab a hammer from your toolbox before heading to Ringing Rocks Park, home to a must-see natural wonder. To arrive at what might be the most unique hidden gem in Pennsylvania, set off on the .06-mile Ringing Rocks Trail, an easy path that only takes around 15 minutes to complete and leads to a beautiful waterfall. However, it’s the boulder field that is the star of the park. Wear sturdy shoes so you can walk on the rocks. When you’ve found a rock you like, gently tap it with a hammer to hear it make music.

What are your favorite well-known hidden gems in Pennsylvania? Let us know by nominating them, and then start planning a journey on the little-known hidden gems road trip in Pennsylvania.

Feeling inspired? Try planning your own trip using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner.