In 2021, Take These 12 Incredible Pennsylvania Hikes, One For Each Month Of The Year
Three cheers for 2021! While we have no idea what the year will bring, we can probably all agree that we’re happy for a fresh start. The start of a new year is also the perfect time to plan for some of the adventures on which we’ll embark in the coming months. Here are 12 amazing Pennsylvania hikes, one for each month of the year.
During these uncertain times, please keep safety in mind and consider adding destinations to your bucket list to visit at a later date.
Meandering through state game lands near Jim Thorpe, Tank Hollow Trail is picture-perfect any time of the year. The trail, which is rated easy, clocks in at 3.4 miles and can get pretty busy at times. Follow the white arrows, so you stay on the scenic trail. Find more information on All Trails.
If you’re up for a bit of a challenge, you’ll find it on the moderate Kelly’s Run Loop Trail. The trail spans just under four miles and features a ton of natural beauty, including a cascading waterfall. Kelly’s Run Loop Trail runs through the woods, and you’ll also hike along a stream. Find more information on Kelly’s Run Loop Trail on All Trails.
For an easy and unique hike, head to Hickory Run State Park, where you’ll follow the Boulder Field Trail. You’ll definitely want to wear sturdy shoes for this 6.2-mile trail that can get really busy. The trail will lead you through the forest and to the beautiful boulder field. Here’s the official website of Hickory Run State Park.
Wildwood Lake Trail wanders through Wildwood Park and promises stunning natural beauty. The 3.5-mile easy trail offers the opportunity to see a ton of local wildlife. Part of the trail is ADA-accessible, making it easy to turn the loop trail into an out and back trail. Find more info on All Trails, including a map of Wildwood Lake Trail.
Can you think of a better way to spend a lovely spring day than gazing at wildlife and newly blossomed trees and flowers? The John Heinz Lake Loop Trail tallies 3.6 miles and even features a boardwalk that crosses over John Heinz Lake. Here’s more information on the official website of John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge.
Summer’s the perfect time for a leisurely (and easy) hike along the beach. The 13.4-mile multi-purpose trail in Presque Isle will take you on a paved path with gorgeous views of Lake Erie. Don’t forget to bring your swimming gear along for a break on the beach and a swim in the lake. Stop by the official website of Presque Isle State Park.
Laurel Hill State Park, with its sandy swimming beach, is an idyllic summer destination. Before you hit the beach, consider following Laurel Hill Lake Trail. Rated moderate, the scenic trail spans 3.4 miles and is drenched with natural beauty in all seasons. Here’s more information on the official website of Laurel Hill State Park.
Falls Trail boasts 21 gorgeous waterfalls, but it comes with a challenging hike. The trail spans 7.2 miles and earns its difficult rating because of its rocky and sometimes slippery terrain. However, the challenge is well worth it for the waterfall views. Stop by the official website of Ricketts Glen State Park.
Climb 1,000 stairs – literally – on the Thousand Steps Trail. The trail leads to the top of Jacks Mountain and simply sensational views of the surrounding landscape. Because it is a strenuous hike, it has a difficult rating. Learn more on the official website of The Standing Stone Trail.
October transforms the landscape into a colorful palette. Seven Tubs Nature Area Trail, a moderate trail that tallies just under two miles, promises colorful fall foliage, waterfalls, and shimmering tubs. Here’s more information on Seven Tubs Nature Area.
Combine a challenge with gorgeous scenery when you embark on the Slippery Rock Gorge Trail. The trail is long, at 15 miles, but boasts a ton of beauty – a waterfall, a covered bridge, and picturesque footbridges. Learn more on the official website of McConnells Mill State Park.
Round out the year with a moderately difficult but absolutely gorgeous trail. The Tom Lowe Trail tallies 4.9 miles and can get pretty busy at times. However, you’ll be treated to a ton of natural beauty, including a cascading waterfall. Stop by All Trails for more information on the Tom Lowe Trail.
What are your favorite Pennsylvania hikes? Join the conversation in the comments! Still looking for more unique hikes for 2021? Follow the Pike 2 Bike Trail that will take you along a stretch of the abandoned PA Turnpike.
Address: Jim Thorpe, PA, USA
Address: Holtwood, PA 17532, USA
Address: 3613 PA-534, White Haven, PA 18661, USA
Address: 100 Wildwood Way, Harrisburg, PA 17110, USA
Address: 8601 Lindbergh Blvd., Philadelphia, PA 19153, USA
Address: Presque Isle State Park, 301 Peninsula Dr, Erie, PA 16505, USA
Address: Laurel Hill State Park, 1454 Laurel Hill Park Rd, Somerset, PA 15501, USA
Address: Ricketts Glen State Park, 695 PA-487, Benton, PA 17814, USA
Address: William Penn Hwy, Mapleton, PA 17052, USA
Address: 900 Bear Creek Blvd, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18702, USA
Address: McConnells Mill State Park, 1761 McConnells Mill Rd, Portersville, PA 16051, USA
Address: Hamburg, PA 19526, USA
