Find 5 Bucket-List-Level Views in Pennsylvania Without Needing To Be an Expert Hiker

You don’t have to be a seasoned outdoorsperson to enjoy some of the best bucket list views in Pennsylvania. From roaring rivers to wind-swept cliffs, these easy trails prove that spectacular scenery shouldn’t have to require an intense climb. Lace up your walking shoes, grab your camera, and get ready to take in vistas you’ll be talking about long after you’re back home.

1. Tank Hollow Trail, State Game Lands Number 141

Just outside Jim Thorpe, Tank Hollow Trail leads to one of the most breathtaking overlooks of the Lehigh River Gorge with surprisingly little effort. The path winds gently through forest and gravel roads before opening onto a jaw-dropping perch above the water. Watch for sunbathing rattlesnakes near the rocky ledge, and keep dogs leashed just in case—especially on warmer days. With free parking off Behrens Road and fall foliage that truly pops, this hike feels like a reward far bigger than its modest mileage.

2. Hawk Falls Trail, Hickory Run State Park

If the sound of rushing water is what draws you outdoors, this short, shady trek to a 25-foot waterfall hits the mark. The trail in Hickory Run State Park is just over a mile long, winding past rhododendrons that bloom in May and June. The falls tumble into a deep, clear pool where swimming isn’t allowed, but standing nearby and taking it all in is more than enough to make the walk worthwhile. It’s a popular spot, so aim for a weekday morning to have the place (and that soothing soundtrack) mostly to yourself.

3. Chickies Rock Overlook Trail, Chickies Rock County Park

Perched high above the Susquehanna River near Columbia, this quick walk delivers sweeping views of the water framed by the forest. The Chickies Rock Overlook Trail is an easy-but-wow hike that delivers big rewards for very little effort. You’ll reach the bluff in about 10 to 15 minutes, where sunsets light up the river and trains pass below. Expect some company—this is a beloved local gem—but the panoramic payoff still makes it worth the stop. Wear sturdy shoes for the short, rocky approach and hang out for a bit to watch the light shift across the valley.

4. Ferncliff Trail, Ohiopyle State Park

Tucked away from Ohiopyle’s busiest paths, the Ferncliff Peninsula is one of the park’s best-kept secrets, looping through lush riverside forest with constant glimpses of whitewater rapids. This easy 1.8-mile trail circles a bend in the Youghiogheny River and even gives you a peek at Ohiopyle Falls along the way. Shaded and peaceful, it’s an ideal choice for a warm summer stroll. Sections can get muddy after rain, so waterproof shoes are helpful (I personally like the L.L. Bean Access Hiking Shoes). Wildflowers brighten spring, while fall brings fiery color.

5. Table Rock View, Halifax

For a hike that feels remote but not remote enough to lose cell service, Table Rock View near Halifax is a standout. The trail winds through the woods before arriving at a broad sandstone ledge overlooking Clarks Valley. It’s easy to see how this spot earned its name—the “table” of rock juts dramatically from the mountainside, forming a natural rest stop with a view you won’t forget. Watch your footing on the rocky surface, bring some water, and plan to stay awhile. This is the kind of view you don’t want to rush.

From tumbling waterfalls to wide-open ridgelines, these easy hikes show that bucket list views in Pennsylvania don’t require steep grades or endless switchbacks—just a little time and curiosity to see the state from its most beautiful angles.

So which trail would you start with? If I had to pick a favorite from this list, it would be Chickies Rock Overlook. Have a Pennsylvania hike you love or think deserves the spotlight? Share it with us through our nomination form.

Feeling inspired to start planning? Try mapping out your own Pennsylvania hikes using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner. For detailed maps, trail reviews, and GPS directions along the way, AllTrails+ can make getting out there even easier.