15 Incredible Natural Wonders In Pennsylvania That Defy Explanation
Beth Price-Williams
Author
Have you ever noticed that just about everywhere we go in Pennsylvania, we’re surrounded by natural beauty? Part of that natural beauty comes from the many natural attractions in Pennsylvania. From waterfalls and rock formations to caves and scenic overlooks, Pennsylvania makes exploring oh-so-fun and oh-so-easy. When mulling over where your next adventure will take you, consider one of these natural wonders in Pennsylvania.
Best Gorges & Canyons In Pennsylvania
We don’t have to travel to the Grand Canyon in Arizona to marvel at some of Mother Nature’s most majestic beauty. We have several jaw-dropping gorges and canyons right here in Pennsylvania. These natural attractions in Pennsylvania promise some of the state’s most breathtaking beauty and an unforgettable adventure.
1. Pine Creek Gorge – Watson Township
One of the most awe-inspiring natural attractions in Pennsylvania, Pine Creek Gorge is also known as the Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania. You can view the National Natural Landmark from Leonard Harrison State Park or Colton Point State Park, both of which offer scenic overlooks and hiking trails to the rim and to the bottom of the canyon. This is one of those natural wonders in Pennsylvania that deserves a top spot on your bucket list. No matter what time of the year you visit, you'll be treated to spellbinding views. However, if you can, try to visit during the peak of the fall foliage at least once.
2. Nay Aug Gorge – Scranton
Nestled in Nay Aug Park in Scranton, Nay Aug Gorge sits along the two-mile Davis Trail. As you stroll to the gorge, you'll pass a treehouse and a waterfall. Bring your camera and admire the views from the scenic overlooks. Swimming, boating, fishing, and going into the water is prohibited and, if attempted, can be deadly. More than 40 people have died in the gorge, which is known for its extremely cold temperatures and fast-flowing rapids.
3. Slippery Rock Gorge – Portersville
If you're up for a hefty challenge, head over to McConnells Mill State Park in Portersville, home to Slippery Rock Gorge. The 6.2-mile Slippery Rock Gorge Trail leads through the gorge that will take you down 400 feet at its deepest point. You'll need at least six hours to complete the out-and-back trail that leads through the woods, past a creek, and to several waterfalls.
Best Caves In Pennsylvania
Some of the most breathtaking natural beauty in Pennsylvania hides below ground in its many caves. Whether you plan to go on a tour of a cave or are seeking a more thrilling adventure, like spelunking, you’ll find just what you’re looking for at these natural attractions in Pennsylvania.
4. Laurel Caverns – Farmington
One of the steepest caves in the United States and one of the most awe-inspiring natural wonders in Pennsylvania, Laurel Caverns welcomes visitors for guided tours, self-guided tours, and spelunking/caving. While the cave is 464 feet deep, you'll journey down around 150 feet while exploring about 3,000 feet of the three miles of passageways. Laurel Caverns is open seasonally, allowing for bats to hibernate in the off-season, and maintains a year-round temperature of 52 degrees Fahrenheit. Dress accordingly. Several tours are offered, including the traditional tour that requires climbing stairs and a shortened, 30-minute tour that does not include stairs.
5. Meadowcroft Rockshelter & Historic Village – Avella
Join a one-hour tour of North America's oldest site of human habitation, which dates back more than 19,000 years, at Meadowcroft Rockshelter & Historic Village. The tour includes a stop at the cave or, more precisely, a "massive rock overhang," the early settlers used as shelter. Once you've learned more about this natural wonder in Pennsylvania, explore the rest of the historic village.
6. Lost River Caverns – Hellertown
Billed as "Nature's Underground Wonderland," Lost River Canyons welcomes visitors all year, although hours vary depending on the season. Guided tours generally take up to 45 minutes and include eight stairs and several ramps. You'll learn more about this natural limestone cavern as you walk along the lighted paths. The cave maintains an average temperature of 52 degrees Fahrenheit all year, so be sure to dress appropriately, bringing a jacket or sweater, if you want, in the warmer months.
Best Waterfalls In Pennsylvania
Explore the best nature in Pennsylvania by spending a few hours or a day chasing waterfalls. Pennsylvania is home to several hundred waterfalls – from those that sit along scenic hiking trails to those that require just a few steps to view. Here are just a few of the best waterfalls in Pennsylvania.
7. The Falls at Ricketts Glen – Benton, PA
For the most epic waterfall-chasing adventure, make your way to Ricketts Glen State Park, home to 21 named waterfalls along the Falls Trail. The 7.2-mile trail snags a difficult rating due to slippery, rocky, and steep terrain. (For an alternative that also boasts views of the waterfalls, follow the 3.2-mile Highland Trail.) However, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of all 21 waterfalls, including the 94-foot Ganoga Falls.
Falls Trail is closed during the winter, except for experienced hikers and ice climbers with the proper equipment. Hiking the trail in the winter requires checking in with the state park's front office.
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8. Bushkill Falls – Bushkill, PA
9. Raymondskill Falls – Milford, PA
A short .6-mile loop trail leads to Raymondskill Falls, the tallest waterfall in Pennsylvania. While the trail falls somewhere between easy and moderate, it poses a few challenges, including stairs if you want to view the cascade from above and some uneven terrain. There are two viewing platforms at this Pennsylvania waterfall. You can visit any time of the year, although it tends to be crowded during the warmer months.
Best Overlooks & Scenic Vistas In Pennsylvania
Some of the best nature spots in Pennsylvania can be seen from its overlooks and scenic vistas. The good news is we don’t need a ton of time to pull over, admire the scenery, and snap photos. Here are a few of the best overlooks and scenic vistas in Pennsylvania:
10. Hyner View State Park – North Bend, PA
Some of the best views in Pennsylvania await at the tiny but mighty six-acre Hyner View State Park. The state park sits 1,300 feet above the river. A short stroll from the parking lot leads to the scenic overlook that promises views that stretch for miles. If you're up for an adventure, go hang gliding or, if you prefer to just relax, pack a picnic and sit at one of the tables. The trail to the overlook is ADA-accessible.
11. Brady’s Bend – Rimersburg, PA
Drink in spellbinding views at Brady's Bend, one of the best scenic overlooks in Pennsylvania. The vista boasts jaw-dropping views from 500 feet above the bend of the Allegheny River. There's a parking lot right off of the road then you'll have just a short walk to the overlook. Plan a visit to one of the best nature places in Pennsylvania in each season.
Best Rock Formations in Pennsylvania
With all of the breathtaking natural beauty and natural wonders in Pennsylvania, we all need a bucket list, so we don’t miss anything. Pennsylvania boasts a rich natural history, and you can view some of it when you visit the best rock formations. Are they on your bucket list yet?
12. Bilger’s Rocks – Grampian
Wander past 300-million-year-old rock formations at Bilger's Rocks. The series of limestone rock formations are often called "Rock City" and feature cliffs, passageways, and caves visitors can explore. Ten miles of hiking trails will give you an up-close view of this majestic natural wonder in Pennsylvania. Climbing is allowed, so be sure to bring the proper climbing equipment. The park also has picnic tables, a playground, and primitive camping. During the warmer months, it features a concession stand on select days.
13. Beartown Rocks – Sigel
Gear up for somewhat of a challenge at Clear Creek State Forest when you follow the four-mile Bear Town Rocks Trail, which leads to Bear Town Rocks. The boulders, some the size of houses, were formed by glaciers. Don't worry if you don't have time for a hike. Look for the parking lot along Corbett Road, park, and walk just a few steps to the natural rock formations.
Unique Natural Wonders in Pennsylvania
With so many natural wonders in Pennsylvania, we’re never too far from an adventure. Whether you’re a fan of chasing waterfalls or checking out one-of-a-kind rock formations, you’ll find the perfect adventure close to home. Here are a few unique natural wonders in Pennsylvania that deserve a spot on everyone’s bucket list.
14. Ringing Rocks County Park – Upper Black Eddy
Bring a hammer when you visit Ringing Rocks County Park, home to several natural wonders in Pennsylvania. Follow a short and sweet trail that leads to a waterfall and to the masterpiece of the park - a field of ringing rocks. Wear comfy shoes to make it easier (and more comfortable) to navigate through the field. Take your hammer, tap the rocks, and....voila! Music.
15. Forest Cathedral – Cooksburg
A hike through Forest Cathedral, a National Natural Landmark, at Cook Forest State Park will lead you to some of the oldest trees in Pennsylvania. You can view the 350-year-old trees along several trails. Clocking in at just .09 of a mile, the Birch Trail is short, sweet, and easy. It offers views of towering birch trees and the Children's Fishing Pond. For must-see nature in Pennsylvania, head to Forest Cathedral.
How many of these natural wonders in Pennsylvania have you visited? Are there any natural attractions in Pennsylvania that you would add to this list? Let us know in the comments! If you’re on the hunt for more adventures, check out these best nature spots in Pennsylvania.
Before you head out on your next adventure, make sure you’ve got a comfy pair of shoes, plenty of water, and a camera.
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