Discovering Hiking Trails in the Scenic Susquehanna River Valley

Explorers, young and old, novice or expert, can discover an abundance of activities throughout the year in the Susquehanna River Valley’s parks, forests, and paths. Stunning vistas, serene landscapes, and a profound bond with nature accompany each hiking excursion. Every season reveals its own marvels, thrilling and astonishing those who wander the trails. If you want to see the best views in PA with your own eyes, prepare your hiking gear and celebrate the splendor of the River Valley’s four seasons.

Best Hiking Trails

#1 Seven Tubs Recreation Area

Experience the beauty of nature on this 3.2-kilometer loop trail located close to Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania. With a moderate difficulty level, most people complete this trail in roughly 50 minutes. It’s a favorite spot among community members for hiking and trail running, so expect some company along the way. The trail is especially inviting from May to June. Bring your furry friends along to enjoy the adventure, just remember to keep them leashed.

#2 Peters Mountain On The Appalachian Trail

Looking for a new adventure? Traverse the east side of the Appalachian Trail and discover breathtaking vistas of the Susquehanna River and its meeting point with the Juniata River. Whether you’re up for a day hike or an overnight stay, the trail provides an unforgettable experience. Rest easy at the Clarks Ferry Shelter, nestled a mere five miles from the ridge, which grants a scenic overlook of these majestic waterways.

One of the rules for a successful hiking trip is to prepare offline maps of the area and the necessary applications. To do this, you must be able to set a new location on your iPhone. But how to change iPhone location of the iPhone? To do this, you need a VPN for iPhone, which will give you a new IP address and, accordingly, a location. You can connect to a server in Pennsylvania from anywhere in the world and download local maps or other local information.

#3 Bald Eagle Mountain Trail

Bald Eagle Mountain, standing as the most westerly ridge amongst its Ridge-and-Valley Appalachian counterparts, waits just south of the winding West Branch Susquehanna River. Adventure seekers can traverse the various paths that lace the mountain, though the marquee excursion is the 9-mile trek to a stunning overlook. As you reach the summit’s peak, continue along the path known as Rattlesnake Ridge, making your way toward the expanse of boulders that marks the lookout point. Atop this elevated platform, not only will you enjoy the sweeping vista of Lock Haven, but the expansive West Branch will also unfurl before your eyes.

#4 Cumberland Valley Overlook

Craving an escape into nature with your four-legged companion? Trek the renowned Cumberland Valley Overlook along the iconic Appalachian Trail—a haven for pets and owners alike. Ascend to the summit and bask in the breathtaking panoramas of fertile lands that mark this area’s rich agricultural heritage. And there’s a bonus: a quirky rock structure affectionately termed the ‘Cumberland Couch’ by locals, inviting you to pause and rejuvenate amidst the tranquility before your descent.

#5 Ricketts Glen State Park

Experience the scenic beauty on this 8.0-mile loop trail situated in the tranquil Sweet Valley, Pennsylvania. This trail offers a moderate challenge, with an average completion time of around 3 hours and 27 minutes, making it a fulfilling excursion for enthusiasts. As a favored spot for hiking and trail running, camaraderie with fellow trail-goers is part of the charm. Accessible throughout the year, its allure is constant across seasons. Nature-loving dogs are invited to join the adventure, provided they are leashed.

#6 Darlington Trail

Discover the picturesque Darlington Trail, stretching from the confluence of the storied Appalachian and Tuscarora Trails, concluding at the serene Tower Road. This enchanting 7.7-mile trail is nestled within the expansive State Game Lands 170 and is easily navigated through its distinctive orange markers. Delight in a handful of stream crossings sprinkled along your hike, offering refreshing checkpoints amidst your adventure.

Autumn brings a special allure to the trail as Blue Mountain unfolds in a stunning display framed by the season’s skeletal trees. You can personally see and compare how this trail looks in different seasons of the year. If necessary, simply install a VPN app for iOS and connect to a local server. This way, you will get a complete picture of the walk and choose the best route.

#7 Mid State Trail

Spanning an impressive 327 miles, the Mid State Trail is an iconic State Forest Hiking Trail that carves a scenic path for 45 miles amidst the pristine vistas of Bald Eagle State Forest. This trail begins its ascent from Route 322, reaching up through the verdant Poe Paddy State Park, fording the serene Penns Creek, and winding towards the Hairy Johns State Forest Picnic Area.

Its route skirts the periphery of the Hook Natural Area, meandering through R.B. Winter State Park, then further north, breaches the boundaries into the lush Tiadaghton State Forest. Known for its challenging terrain and mountain top thrills, the Mid State Trail isn’t for the faint of heart. With its path delineated by vivid orange rectangles, the trail is a testament to the dedicated stewardship of the Mid State Trail Association.

Conclusion

Discover the Susquehanna Greenway, an expansive 500-mile realm of outdoor adventure offering a web of exceptional hiking paths tailored for every enthusiast. From the seasoned hiker to the casual wanderer, this corridor grants you passage to the legendary 2,190-mile Appalachian Trail for an unforgettable backpacking experience.

Adventure Awaits!

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