This Remote Town in Pennsylvania Is One of the Darkest Places in the U.S.

Each of Pennsylvania’s small towns has that one characteristic for which it is known. Bloomsburg is known as Pennsylvania’s only official town, Mars is most recognized for its flying saucer landmark, and Coudersport is the most remote town in Pennsylvania, which also has the darkest skies.

In fact, many people flock to Coudersport, located along the Allegheny River, for a small town getaway to gaze upon the stars. Between the variety of parks to view the clearest constellations, the charming downtown area with shops and restaurants, and the unique natural attraction — the ice mine! — Coudersport is a must-visit next time you're in Northern PA. Here's what to know before you go.

Why You Should Visit this Remote Town in Pennsylvania

A tiny town with just over 2,300 residents, Coudersport is considered one of the most remote areas of Pennsylvania. The charming town is known for a few natural wonders, including its dark skies for stargazing and the Coudersport Ice Mine.

The latter is an incredible seasonal attraction—a mine shaft that's 8 feet long and over 30 feet deep! Instead of minerals or coal, however, this natural phenomenon has layers of ice that freeze in the summer and thaw in the winter. It's one of a few of its kind in the U.S., attracting curious tourists since the early 1900s.

Now, Coudersport Ice Mine is open to the public from Memorial Day to Labor Day, Wednesday to Sunday, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Admission is $5 for adults and $2.50 for kids. You can even grab a souvenir at the gift shop!

If you plan to visit this charming Pennsylvania town, you'll also want to spend part of your time exploring the downtown area, home to a Main Street that looks straight out of an old-fashioned postcard. Stroll through town checking out the quaint shops, and grab a bite at one of the lively restaurants.

We recommend Vinny's Bar and Grill for sandwiches and ice-cold beer, or Kaytee's Family Restaurant and Marketplace for fresh salads, burgers, and other homemade and local delicacies.

The Best Spot to Go Stargazing in Coudersport

The star of the show (pun intended) in Coudersport is undoubtedly the extremely clear night sky at Cherry Springs State Park. In fact, the park is one of only two in the U.S. that has a Gold Level International Dark Sky Park certification, meaning it's really dark out there.

Stargazers flock from around the globe to witness the park's brilliant night sky, which has hardly any light pollution and ample opportunity to see constellations, the Milky Way, planets, meteor showers, and more.

At just 82 acres, Cherry Springs State Park is flanked by the 262,000-acre Susquehannock State Forest. And the stargazing areas are perched atop a 2,300-foot mountain in the heart of the remote Pennsylvania forest. Once the sun sets, you’ll be treated to a nighttime show in the sky.

The park features two areas for casual stargazers: the nighttime observation area and a rustic campground if you want to spend the night. Serious astronomers have a separate viewing area; however, you'll have to register and pay the appropriate fee before visiting.

Imagine camping under the stars on a cool summer night, with the sounds of crickets and wildlife in the distance. You'll feel like you're in another world, full of total peace and tranquility. If you're convinced, learn more about Cherry Springs State Park on the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources website.

Tips for Planning Your Trip to This Northern PA Town

Coudersport is the perfect place for a day trip or weekend getaway in northern PA. It's only about an hour from the city of Renovo, which has several hiking and sightseeing opportunities, and other small towns filled with gorgeous rolling hills and peaceful farmland.

Find hikes to conquer nearby, like Hyner View Trail and Humble Hill Loop, or other fun things to do in Renovo, like antiquing or attending the PA State Flaming Foliage Festival in mid-October. Summertime is also an especially wonderful season to visit Coudersport, as the weather warms up and the Ice Mine is in full effect!

All in all, Coudersport is one of the best small towns in Pennsylvania. Have you been to Clinton County or Northern PA before? Or gone stargazing on a clear Pennsylvania night? If not, start planning your trip to Cherry Springs State Park today—you'll love every second of it.