With its many scenic byways, natural wonders, and fascinating attractions, Pennsylvania is a prime destination for a road trip. However, when we’re so spoiled with choices, we might have a difficult time deciding where to hit the road next. One of the most beautiful scenic byways in the state, West Branch Susquehanna River Scenic Byway provides a picture-perfect backdrop, and some of the best hidden gems in Pennsylvania along the way, for an unforgettable and thrilling road trip. Even better? You can enjoy it all in a single day. All you have to do is pack the car with all of your favorite snacks and drinks, fill up the gas tank, and hit the road. (If you’ve got a vehicle with off-road capabilities, you’ll love this road trip even more.)

Here is the link to an interactive Google Map that will serve as the navigator for your journey.

Meandering 72 miles through Clearfield County, the West Branch Susquehanna River Scenic Byway, which just made its debut in 2012, boasts some of the most beautiful natural features in Pennsylvania.

The journey along this picturesque route measures 106 miles, which you can do in a little over 2.5 hours. During this beautiful adventure, you'll pass by rock formations, a wandering river, and even a historic covered bridge. If you're a fan of PA hidden gems, you'll love this short but sweet road trip.

Turn up the tunes and roll down the windows to let the fresh air blow in as we make our way to our first stop – McGees Mills Covered Bridge, an enchanting throwback to yesteryear. The covered bridge, which dates back to 1873, is the lone remaining covered bridge that crosses over the West Branch of the Susquehanna River.

With more than 200, Pennsylvania has more covered bridges than any other state. During their heyday, an estimated 12,000 covered bridges dotted the United States, and Pennsylvania was home to 1,500. That number has dwindled to around 1,000 around the country in the 21st century.

Since the bridge is still open to vehicular traffic, you can drive over it. However, you first might want to pull off into the small parking area, so you can take photographs and admire the craftsmanship of the Burr-arch truss bridge, one of the most enchanting hidden gems in PA. There’s even a spot to enjoy a leisurely picnic if you decide to bring one along.

If you didn't pack a picnic, Denny’s Beer Barrel Pub sits along the route. If you love a good and huge burger, you’ll definitely want to stop. It also boasts a few burger challenges if you’re up for one of them.

Our next stop takes us to Bilger’s Rocks, a natural wonder that boasts 300-million-year-old boulders. You’ll definitely want to wear or bring along a pair of sturdy hiking shoes or boots, especially if you plan to climb the boulders.

You have 10 miles of hiking trails from which to choose, with the longest Yellow Trail tallying just 1.29 miles. The natural attraction features a series of boulders, passageways, and caves that are certain to channel the adventurer in you. If you’re lucky, you will arrive at the natural wonder on a day when concessions are sold. Bilger’s Rocks also features a shady picnic area, opportunities for geocaching, and a campground.

Go on a tour of Bilger's Rocks, courtesy of Darrin Gennocro on YouTube.

Jump back into your vehicle for the nearly 10-mile drive to Curwensville Lake, which should take around 20 minutes. That gives you plenty of time to decide how you’ll spend your visit to the popular Central Pennsylvania destination.

Curwensville Lake charges a daily fee for visitors, with current rates (2023) at $3 per vehicle and $5 per vehicle if you’re bringing a watercraft. If you fall head over heels in love with the lake and its many amenities and plan to come back again and again, you might want to purchase a season pass.

The pristine lake, a PA hidden gem, offers something for everyone – whether you feel like sunbathing on the shore, cooling off in the water, partaking in its many amenities, or trying your hand at a bit of fishing.

You can also rent a kayak or a paddleboard, a fun and relaxing way to experience the lake. Curwensville Lake, one of the best hidden gems in PA, also features a dog park, cornhole boards, and a series of easy, moderate, and difficult hiking trails.

Ready to head to the final stop on our adventure and some amazing off-roading fun?

This portion of the trip is perfect for a vehicle with 4x4 capabilities, like the Nissan Frontier pictured here. It's the longest segment of the journey at 82 miles, but you’re going to have a whole lot of fun that will take you on PA-144 North to Hyner View State Park (and some of the most gorgeous views in all of PA).

Set your GPS for Hyner Mountain Road, which will take you onto unpaved, rugged forest roads, leading to the park.

When you arrive at Hyner Mountain Road, turn west and drive for one mile until you reach Richie Road. After making a left on Rithie Road, drive two miles and make a right on Old View Road.

After about three miles, you’ll arrive at Hyner View Scenic Vista. It boasts absolutely spellbinding views of the West Branch of the Susquehanna River, framed by lush mountain ranges.

If you’re up for some spine-tingling chills, go hang gliding at the cozy park.

Get a bird's eye view of Hyner View State Park in this YouTube video by Outdoor Van Adventures

Can you think of a better way to spend a leisurely day than exploring some of the most breathtaking attractions Central Pennsylvania has to offer? Do you agree that these are some of the best hidden gems in Pennsylvania? Let us know in the comments! If you're craving a massive, juicy burger from one of the most beloved burger joints in Pennsylvania, add a stop at Denny’s Beer Barrel Pub to your route.