Explore This Secret Trail Through Elk Country In Pennsylvania

Exploring Pennsylvania means getting out on some of the 12,000 miles of hiking trails and really getting to know the natural beauty and personality of our state. But with more than 650 trails that meander through Pennsylvania, we're sure to miss a whole lot - like this secret trail in Benezette, Pennsylvania. If you're up for a challenge, you'll be treated to some of the most jaw-dropping beauty in the entire state.

Prepare for an adventure and an epic challenge along the aptly named Elk Trail, a 17.2-mile path that rightfully earns a hard rating.

You'll find the trailhead near the charming small town of Benezette, perhaps best known for its thriving elk population. If you drive through the small town, you'll travel alongside plenty of elk.

Winding its way through just a small section of Elk State Forest, the trail features a variety of terrain. Some sections even travel along the road.

Elk State Forest spans more than 217,000 acres and four counties, including Elk, Cameron, Potter, and McKean.

If you're not up for trekking the entire path, which is estimated to take a little over seven hours, you can easily hike a few miles and turn back.

However, if you want to hike the entire trail, consider making it an overnight adventure. Backpacking is popular along this quiet trail.

If you're looking for peace and quiet, you'll likely find it here. Because of its difficult rating, it doesn't tend to get very busy.

Be prepared to deal with a variety of terrain as you meander through the forest and on the roads, most of which are gravel and dirt.

Take care when you're on the road as there's not much of a barrier between you and any traffic that may come along.

You'll also travel past flowing creeks and likely cross paths with more wildlife than people.

This scenic Pennsylvania trail is popular with both hikers and bikers.

Keep an eye out for elk, deer, and porcupines.

For jaw-dropping views, consider setting off during the fall. Drink in the stunning colors of autumn and enjoy cooler temperatures.

Find more information on the official website of Elk State Forest. Or, stop by the Facebook page of this Pennsylvania forest.

Have you followed this trail in Benezette, Pennsylvania? What did you think? Share your experience in the comments! If you've got the time, make sure you plan to day trip to Benezette, Pennsylvania, too. If a day isn't enough time (and it probably won't be) in this charming small town in Pennsylvania, consider staying overnight or making it a weekend getaway by checking into a charming Vrbo.