No matter how long we've lived in Pennsylvania, we've probably come to just take its natural beauty for granted. We don't do it on purpose, but we're so used to it that sometimes we forget to stop and appreciate just how beautiful the place in which we live is. Fall in love with our beautiful state all over again when you visit these scenic Pennsylvania road trip stops. They are some of the most beautiful spots in the state.
Before you hit the road, there are a few things you'll want to do. You definitely want to make sure you pack everything you'll need during your journey; check out this Road Trip Essentials Packing List & Guide to make sure you don't forget anything.
Then tap or click on the Pennsylvania Road Trip map below for directions or navigation assistance in Google Maps for this Pennsylvania scenic drive. You can easily customize the road trip to your timeframe and interests. Ready? Let's go!
1. Ricketts Glen State Park – Benton
Let's kick off our road trip at Ricketts Glen State Park, a natural wonder that's brimming with beauty and waterfalls. That's right. If you're up for a challenge, follow the Falls Trail, which measures just over seven miles and gives you an up-close view of 21 waterfalls. Pretty impressive, right? The park also features a sandy beach, boating, and camping. It's picture-perfect in all four seasons. Find out why Ricketts Glen State Park is one of the most beautiful places in Pennsylvania.
View the official website of Ricketts Glen State Park for more information.
2. Chanticleer Garden – Wayne
Feel as though you've stepped into a fairy tale at Chanticleer Garden, our next stop. The seasonal gardens offer the perfect opportunity to stop and smell the flowers and to enjoy the fresh air. Explore such pretty gardens as the pond garden, Bell's Woodland, and the Asian Woods. Read more about this hidden gem in Pennsylvania in our previous article.
Find days, hours, and more information on the official website of Chanticleer Garden.
3. White Cliffs of Conoy – Marietta
Our next stop takes us to a rare hidden gem. The White Cliffs of Conoy were formed from waste from nearby quarries over many years. Today, it's accessible (wait until you see the views!) via a picturesque hiking trail. If the name sounds familiar, that's because it's named after the White Cliffs of Dover in England. Read more about this unique Pennsylvania hidden gem and the trail that will take you there.
4. Penn’s Cave – Centre Hall
Did you know that Pennsylvania is home to America's only all-water cave? Yep, and it's the next stop on our road trip. Join a guided boat tour of the all-water cave for a one-of-a-kind adventure. When you're back above ground, do a little gemstone mining, find your way out of a maze, and join a Farm-Nature-Wildlife Tour. See why this Pennsylvania cave is worthy of a spot on your bucket list.
Stop by the official website of Penn's Cave for days, hours, and more information.
5. Benezette
If you love seeing wildlife in their natural habitat, you will absolutely love the charming town of Benezette. You'll see elk just about everywhere you go. Start your visit at the Elk Country Visitor Center, where you can learn a bit about the elk and watch them from viewing areas. Even if you just want to drive through town, you're sure to see a whole lot of elk as you pass through. Discover why Benezette is a prime day trip destination in Pennsylvania by reading our previous article.
Plan your visit on the official website of Elk Country Visitor Center.
6. Hammersley Wild Area – Austin
Our next stop takes us to the most remote spot in Pennsylvania, Hammersley Wild Area. The area is so remote you won't have cell service, and motorized vehicles are not allowed in the area. However, you can explore on one of the hiking trails, like the Twin Sisters Trail. Read more about this natural wonder in Pennsylvania.
7. Susquehannock State Forest – Coudersport
Are you falling in love with Pennsylvania all over again? If you haven't yet, you surely will at our next stop. Susquehannock State Forest spans a quarter of a million acres. It's brimming with pure natural beauty and a ton to do for the whole family. Plan to spend at least a night - maybe even camp overnight - at this natural wonder that offers hiking, biking, ATV riding, picnicking, and horseback riding. Visit the official website of Susquehannock State Forest for more information.
What other Pennsylvania road trip stops would you add? Let us know in the comments! Up for another road trip? This family-friendly road trip in Pennsylvania will take you to whimsical attractions, themed restaurants, and more.
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