Pennsylvania never fails to surprise me. Even after growing up and living a significant part of my life here, I’m constantly amazed at all I still haven’t seen and experienced. We have so many hidden gems that we could probably spend a lifetime exploring and not uncover them all. Take this natural wonder in Erie, Pennsylvania, as an example. If you’re not from the area, you might not have heard of it – well, yet. Whether it’s been on your radar or not, this hidden gem certainly deserves a spot on your must-visit list.
Locals have long flocked to Wintergreen Gorge, nestled on and near the Penn State Behrend campus to explore via the hiking and biking trail and experience its natural beauty. Created from sandstone and shale during the Ice Age more than 11,000 years ago, Wintergreen Gorge boasts some pretty impressive stats. It measures 3,980 feet long and is 250 feet deep.
A local gem, the gorge receives a lot of foot traffic, which led to concerns from local officials and community members about preserving the site, as it began showing signs of erosion. The ongoing efforts to preserve the gorge and protect local wildlife, while making it accessible to the public, include adding boardwalks over wetlands and creating a trail surface that is conducive to wheelchairs and strollers.
The best way to explore this natural wonder in Pennsylvania is on the 2.3-mile out-and-back Wintergreen Gorge Trail, an easy path open to hikers, walkers, and bikers. Leashed dogs are also permitted on the trail. Before you hit the trail, though, you can park at the lot on Cooper Road (parking on the road itself is not allowed), which has several ADA-accessible spots. Other parking lots are available near Ohio Hall and the Prischak Educational Building. Each offers easy access to the trailhead.
Carve out around an hour to complete the picturesque path that requires some uphill walking, but the climb is worth it for the views. The trail leads to Devil’s Backbone, an overlook that promises sweeping views of Wintergreen Gorge. While those views may be the highlight of the trail, you’ll also pass tumbling waterfalls, wildflowers and mushrooms, and Four Mile Creek. Watch for salamanders scurrying across the path, too.
Have you visited Wintergreen Gorge, a magnificent natural wonder in Erie, Pennsylvania? What did you think? Let us know in the comments! While in the area, treat yourself to a hearty (and delicious) meal at Lawrence Park Dinor, an old-school diner in Erie, Pennsylvania. Or, if you’re up for more exploring, set off on another of the best hiking trails in Pennsylvania.
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