The Marvelous 2.4-Mile Trail in Pennsylvania Leads Adventurers to a Little-Known Waterfall

Hiking is probably the best way to get out there and really get to know Pennsylvania. Did you know there are more than 12,000 miles of trails in Pennsylvania? That's a lot of space to explore, so it's safe to assume we can inadvertently overlook some really beautiful places. But we can easily rectify that by creating a hiking bucket list. Add the Saint Pete's Trail in Pennsylvania, bursting with scenic beauty and home to several scenic waterfalls, to the top of your list.

A trek along Saint Pete's Trail, a 2.4-mile trail that winds through French Creek State Park in Elverson, promises plenty of surprises along the way. While the trail usually takes around an hour to complete, try to take your time so you can soak up the natural beauty around you. Bring a camera, too, if you can.

Although it scores a moderate rating from hikers, this picturesque path is more than worth it, especially if you love waterfalls. Discover tiny waterfalls all along the trail that pose a few challenges, including slippery rocks, exposed tree roots, and creek crossings.

You'll also pass boulders that are popular with rock climbers. Sturdy shoes you don't mind getting muddy or wet are recommended. (When I was a novice hiker, I tried hiking in flip-flops, and I spent most of the time trying not to slip and fall. From then on, I've worn hiking boots or tennis shoes.)

If you're a fan of waterfalls in Pennsylvania, you'll find some downright gorgeous ones at French Creek State Park. The main waterfall, however, is the showstopper. It provides an ideal opportunity to sit back for a minute, relax, and snap photos as the water tumbles down into a crystal-clear pool. Footbridges and scores of native plants add to the manmade and natural beauty of St. Pete's Trail.

Popular year-round, St. Pete's Trail draws adventurers of all ages and interests, including horseback riders and dog walkers. (Dogs must remain on a leash.) Be prepared to run into others during your adventure. While the trail is drenched in natural beauty, hikers share one common complaint. Graffiti on the boulders, which require maneuvering around as you hike, has become commonplace.

Often compared to a walk through the woods, Saint Pete's Trail deserves a visit each season. Dip your feet in the creek during the spring and summer, a refreshing way to cool down. The park, and the trail, can get quite buggy, so lather on the bug spray and bring extra along, just in case, if you're hiking during the warmer months.

Marvel at the rustic colors that frame the waterfall in the fall. The landscape looks like it's leaped from an artist's canvas during the height of the fall foliage.

Snow transforms the landscape into a winter wonderland, perfect for snapping photos. If you're visiting French Creek State Park during the winter, particularly after a snowfall, you might want to go sledding, cross-country skiing, or ice skating. Stop by one of the best frozen waterfalls in Pennsylvania, too.

No matter when you follow this picturesque loop trail, keep one thing in mind. Whatever you take with you on the trail - water and food, for example - make sure you take what remains back out with you.

After your hike, consider exploring more of this 7,730-acre state park. Swimming, picnicking, disc golfing, and boating are some of the popular warm-weather activities. If a day isn't enough time (and it likely won't be), book a campsite. French Creek State Park features RV spots or you can reserve a modern cabin, a yurt, or a cottage.

Find more information, including a full list of amenities, visit the official website of French Creek State Park.

Have you followed St. Pete's Trail, one of the best hikes in Pennsylvania that leads to a beautiful waterfall? If not, add it to your hiking bucket list. What are your favorite waterfalls in Pennsylvania? What do you think is the best hike in Pennsylvania? Let us know. Fill out a nomination form and we might feature your nominee(s) in a future article.

If you love the simple beauty of a waterfall, plan a visit to this one-of-a-kind waterfall park in Pennsylvania. (It's seasonal, though, so check days and times before heading over.) Ready for more adventures? Set off on another of the best hiking trails in Pennsylvania. You can find them all on AllTrails+. Find even more Pennsylvania adventure using our new Travel Planner!