You don’t have to leave Pennsylvania to find towering cliffs, breathtaking overlooks, and one of the most surprising natural wonders in the Northeast.
This scenic road trip takes you through lovely small towns, forests, and unforgettable overlooks to the canyon known as Pennsylvania’s “Grand Canyon.”
Along the way, you’ll discover easy hikes, wildlife, beautiful picnic spots, and plenty of places to stop for incredible photos.
If you’re looking for a drive packed with amazing scenery and memorable stops from start to finish, this route deserves a spot at the top of your travel list.
1. Hills Creek State Park
Hills Creek State Park is tucked away in Tioga County near Wellsboro, just north of U.S. Route 6 in Pennsylvania’s scenic Allegheny Plateau.
The 407-acre park surrounds the 137-acre Hills Creek Lake, where you can swim from a sandy beach, kayak, fish for bass, or paddle across calm waters.
For peaceful water views, follow the 3-mile Lake Side Trail loop, or hike the 1.5-mile Tauschers Trail through pine plantations, alder stands, and wildflower-filled fields.
While exploring, keep an eye out for bald eagles, white-tailed deer, and great blue herons, and don’t miss the picnic areas, campgrounds, and playgrounds.
2. Wellsboro
Just a 15-minute drive away, Wellsboro welcomes you with its famous gas street lamps, beautiful brick buildings, and small-town charm.
Here, stroll along Main Street to browse local shops, enjoy fudge from Highland Chocolates, or stop for homemade ice cream at The Main Street Creamery.
You can also catch a show at the historic Arcadia Theatre, a landmark that has entertained moviegoers since 1921, or stop by the historic Tioga County Courthouse.
If your visit falls in mid-June, be sure to check out the annual Pennsylvania State Mountain Laurel Festival, which has a parade, concerts, foot races, and a pageant.
3. Barbour Rock Overlook
From Wellsboro, it’s just a 25-minute drive to Barbour Rock Overlook, one of the easiest places to enjoy breathtaking views of the Pennsylvania Grand Canyon.
To reach it, start at the Barbour Rock Trailhead across from the parking area.
At the fork about 200 yards ahead, follow the blue-blazed crushed-stone trail for a smoother 0.7-mile route or the yellow-blazed dirt trail for a shorter 0.4-mile hike.
Bring your camera and take your time soaking in the scenery, especially during peak fall color when the forest glows in brilliant shades of red, orange, and gold.
4. Colton Point State Park
After visiting Barbour Rock, take a 15-minute drive to Colton Point State Park, where you’ll experience a different side of this spectacular landscape.
Located on the west rim of the Pennsylvania Grand Canyon, this 368-acre park features scenic overlooks and hiking trails with sweeping views of the gorge.
If you’re up for a challenge, tackle the 1.5-mile Turkey Path, a steep trail that descends to the canyon floor and passes a 70-foot waterfall less than half a mile in.
For something a bit more laid-back, spend some time on the water, cast a line, enjoy a picnic, or simply relax and take in the scenery.
5. Leonard Harrison State Park
Now head over to Leonard Harrison State Park on the east rim, a fitting final stop on this unforgettable road trip.
The 585-acre park overlooks Pine Creek Gorge, where you’ll enjoy views of a section of the canyon that’s about 800 feet deep and almost 4,000 feet across.
If you want an easy walk and incredible photos of the scenery, follow the 0.6-mile Overlook Trail, or take the steeper 1-mile Turkey Path Trail to descend into the canyon and walk past waterfalls.
To round out your visit, explore the visitor center, spread out a picnic, try your luck catching trout or panfish, and watch for hawks and bald eagles gliding above the gorge.
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