5 Picture-Perfect Nature Trails in Pennsylvania for a Spring Hike

Pennsylvania at times can feel like a state of dramatics when it comes to seasons: blazing fall foliage, summers that can at times feel unbearably hot and humid, winters that chill you right down to the bone, and springs that transform the landscape so dramatically, it could give one whiplash. However, when it comes specifically to scenic trails in Pennsylvania, spring is an unbeatable time of year to go hiking. 

What Makes These Trails Perfect for Spring

As is the case for many states, spring in Pennsylvania is marked by rapid change. The weather can occasionally fluctuate in a frustrating way with rain showers causing mud, but it’s undeniable that this season offers the most pleasant days in terms of temperature and a lack of crowds that summer and fall can bring. Then, there are the benefits that the rain and melting snow give, with snowmelt runoff causing the rivers and waterfalls to be at peak flow, the trees to regain their leaves, and the wildflowers to unfurl. 

What to Expect on These Pennsylvania Trails

Jonathan Run Trail

Location: southwestern Pennsylvania in Ohiopyle State Park

Why Visit in Spring? This is an easy, family-friendly out-and-back hike that offers fewer crowds in the spring, as well as peak water flow for the waterfalls. Additionally, rhododendrons are known to bloom alongside the creek and trails, offering a tranquil, beautiful hike with occasional wildlife sightings. 

Spring Creek Canyon Trail

Location: central Pennsylvania near Bellefonte

Why Visit in Spring? Spring offers less bugs, a lack of crowds, far better weather, tons of wildflowers, and great fishing opportunities for trout - take your pick, really. This 6.3-mile out-and-back trail is long but easy, taking you through trees, rivers, and ruins (a fish hatchery and smokestack). It’s also popular for wildlife viewing, especially birds like herons and multiple amphibians that gather by the creek edge.

Shades of Death Trail

Location: east-central Pennsylvania in Hickory Run State Park

Why Visit in Spring? Like many Pennsylvania hikes, this trail is best in spring for a multitude of reasons - offering less bugs, lower humidity, fewer crowds, full waterfalls, green trees, and rhododendron thickets. At 2.2 miles, this moderate out-and-back hike is very well maintained and feels like something out of a fairy tale when decorated with spring finery. For those so inclined, there are also camping and running opportunities. 

Thousand Steps Trail

Location: south-central Pennsylvania near Mount Union

Why Visit in Spring? This is the hike where temperature matters most. It’s only a 1.7-mile out-and-back trail, but it also has steep stairs that go directly up with no break. As a result, the cooler but slightly warming temperatures of spring are by far best when attempting this strenuous climb. Additionally, the hike is known as hard but doable and somewhat fun, with a rewarding payoff in gorgeous views. Due to this, it can get crowded in the summer and fall mornings, but spring remains largely crowd-free. Plus, the lack of heat means there aren’t any signs of the snakes that can plague the area. 

Ricketts Glen Falls Loop

Location: Ricketts Glen State Park in northeastern Pennsylvania 

Why Visit in Spring? Known as one of the best waterfall hikes in the entire eastern USA, of course, this trail is going to be at its best during peak water flow. At 6.3 miles, this is a hard hike that takes easily over three hours to complete, but it’s well-maintained and offers views of twenty-one waterfalls over a few steep and slippery trails. Be mindful of where you step, and be sure to take a camera!

Tips for Planning a Spring Hike in Pennsylvania 

1. 1.
   Whereas spring overall will be devoid of the suffocating heat of summer, late spring can still get warm, and early spring will certainly still have a chill. Check the weather ahead of time and plan accordingly for your outfit.
2. 2.
   Some Pennsylvania trails can carry ticks, so long clothing is recommended and always check yourself, your children, and any dogs after hiking.
3. 3.
   Hiking boots, bug spray, a water bottle, and sunglasses are great additions to any Pennsylvania hike.

With gorgeous greenery and flowers, a perfect temperature (although not always perfect weather), fewer crowds, and peak water flow, spring is undoubtedly one of the best times to visit Pennsylvania when it comes to hiking. Don’t believe it? Take to the trails yourself and discover everything this beautiful state has to offer in the springtime!