I’ve Been Gatekeeping 5 Hidden Hiking Trails in Pennsylvania

Some of Pennsylvania’s most famous hiking trails are popular for a reason, but they’re certainly not the only trails to amazing sights. Our state is blessed with thousands of miles of hiking trails, and sometimes, it’s the little-known trails that make you fall in love with hiking all over again. Sure, locals may know these gems, but to the vast majority, these hiking trails remain fairly hidden. If you’re up for a side quest, these hidden hiking trails in Pennsylvania are worth seeking out!

Salt Springs Loop Trail

Salt Springs State Park is a 405-acre state park in northeastern Pennsylvania. Known for its mesmerizing old-growth hemlock trees, many of which are estimated to be more than 300 years old! The Salt Springs Loop Trail is a 6.5-mile loop that takes you all around the park (and a good bit beyond) and is a great hike that offers a little bit of everything: beautiful scenery, waterfalls, and more. There’s 1,322 feet of elevation gain on the trail, so it’s a great workout, too.

Hemlock Loop

The Woodbourne Forest and Wildlife Sanctuary is a 648-acre wildlife sanctuary that’s a nature lover’s paradise. It’s open year-round, from dawn to dusk, and offers more than six miles of hiking trails. The Hemlock Loop is my favorite. The two-mile loop leads you through the trees and offers some waterfront views, too. It’s a great area to do a little birdwatching. There’s even a good chance you’ll spot some deer prancing through the forest, too. 

Round Top Loop

This trail may not be hidden for folks who live in the Athens area, but it’s worth seeking out! The three-mile loop trail has some spectacular views of the city, and is overall a good outing. It is a multi-use trail, which includes sections where ATVs are allowed, which might dissuade some hikers.

Kinzua Point

There are so many trails within Allegheny National Forest, you could spend a lifetime exploring them all. Many of the hikes in this region are 5+ miles long and can be pretty strenuous. When I want a short, sweet, and scenic hike, that’s when I head over to Kinzua Point. The out-and-back trail clocks in right around two miles and offers beautiful views of the Allegheny River for nearly the entire journey. 

Paradise Overlook Trail

If you want a quick and easy trail that leads to an extraordinary view, head on over to the Bear Run Nature Reserve and check out the Paradise Overlook Trail. It’s an out-and-back trail that’s right at half a mile and ends with a stunning view. In the summertime, you’ll be able to see the white water rafters heading down the river. 

Any of these little-known hiking trails caught your eye? Check out all of the best hiking trails in Pennsylvania and start putting together your hiking bucket list! Feeling inspired? Try planning your own trip using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner.