This Scenic Pennsylvania Hike Is Even Better in the Winter

Summer gets all the credit for being the season of outdoor adventure, but I'd argue that nothing is quite as exhilarating as a winter hike. Solitude, scenery—and, if we're lucky, a hint of snow—create an unforgettable outdoor experience. If you agree, then you'll want to bookmark today's feature destination: Rimrock Overlook Trail. Popular in the warmer weather, this stunning vista is certainly worth bundling up for.

Rimrock Overlook Trail is a 2.3-mile out-and-back trek that takes most hikers a little under an hour and a half to complete. It's rated as moderately challenging, with nearly 500 feet in elevation gain. In the winter, things are a bit different. To start, the access road where the parking area is located (State Route 59) becomes a designated cross-country ski route and is closed to vehicles. In the winter, you'll need to park at the closest trailhead, which is Morrison Trailhead, to access Rimrock Overlook. This adds about two miles to the trek each way; however, the road is flat and easy to navigate.

Before heading out, be sure you're wearing plenty of warm layers. Also note that hunting season is in the late fall and early spring, so it's a good idea to wear bright, bold colors as well. Conditions on the trail can vary, and it's not recommended to venture out if it's icy, especially considering that there are a few stairs leading to the overlook.

With adequate preparation, you'll find that there really is a lot to enjoy about this trail. The bare trees create a dramatic wintery landscape, and there's something so calming about the solitude that winter brings. For most of the hike, you'll be traveling through a mature oak forest. The elevation gain is gradual until you get closer to the overlook.

There are stone steps along with a handrail that guide you to that final view, so be sure to navigate carefully and prepare to be enchanted! From the top, you'll be able to see Kinzua Bay and the gentle rolling mountains surrounding it. Even on a grey, cloudy day, it's simply magnificent. Visitors who have hiked this trail in the winter share that it's wide and easy to follow, but they caution against trying the stairs if they're covered in ice.

No matter your reason for venturing out this winter, you'll feel nothing short of exhilarated after braving this cold-weather trek. So, what do you think? Is this a trail you look forward to trying? If so, be sure to share this article with a fellow hiking enthusiast and let the planning begin! For helpful details about parking and road conditions, be sure to consult the official Forest Service website before your visit.

If you're craving even more outdoor time this season, be sure to check out these 7 trails in Pennsylvania that are perfect for outdoor hiking.

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