If you’re dreaming about a weekend getaway with epic views, lakeside fun, and just the right amount of chill and adventure, this road trip is calling your name.
Hidden in the mountains of central Pennsylvania, there’s a place that’s got everything.
Raystown Lake has scenic overlooks, secret trails, cozy beaches, and even a giant waterslide.
Whether you’re into hiking, kayaking, swimming, or just eating ice cream by the water, this itinerary has the perfect stops to keep your weekend totally stress-free.
1. Ridenour Overlook
Ridenour Overlook is a scenic viewpoint perched high above the lake near Huntingdon, offering jaw-dropping views of the water and surrounding forest.
It’s known for its picture-perfect panoramic views, especially in the fall when the trees explode with color.
There’s also a big parking area, so you can hop out and soak it all in without breaking a sweat.
Bring your camera because this spot has benches and great sunset views, it’s a local favorite for good reason!
2. Hawn’s Overlook
Just a few minutes down the road is Hawn’s Overlook, and trust me, you do not want to skip this one.
Unlike Ridenour, this overlook takes a short uphill walk to reach, but the reward is next-level: miles of sparkling lake winding through the mountains.
It’s peaceful and well worth the climb, especially if you like a view that makes you forget what day it is.
3. Seven Points Recreation Area
After soaking in the views, it’s time to get down to lake level at Seven Points Recreation Area—aka the action-packed heart of Raystown Lake.
This spot has a big sandy beach for swimming, a marina with boat rentals, picnic spots, hiking trails, and even an ice cream stand if you’re craving a sweet treat.
Whether you want to kayak, bike the Allegrippis Trails, or just float around and chill, Seven Points is the go-to spot for a laid-back afternoon.
4. Lake Raystown Resort
If you want to kick back in style, Lake Raystown Resort is the place to go.
This place packs it all in: comfy cabins, lakeside campsites, a full-service marina, and a waterpark that steals the show every summer.
It’s a place where vacation mode kicks in, whether you’re enjoying slow mornings on the cabin porch or gliding across the lake on a sightseeing cruise.
5. WildRiver Water Park
Right inside the resort, WildRiver Water Park is the adventure you didn’t know you needed.
It features twisty water slides and plenty of spray zones that keep the fun going all afternoon.
Kids go wild here, but don’t be surprised if you end up racing down the slides yourself—it’s just that fun.
(WildRiver Water Park normally closes in September and usually reopens in May.)
6. Tatman Run Beach
If you’re craving a beach day, Tatman Run is the place to go.
It’s a cozy little stretch of sand with calm, shallow water that’s great for swimming, plus there’s a grassy picnic area nearby.
It’s way less crowded than the bigger beaches, so you can spread out your towel, kick off your shoes, and relax like you’ve got the whole place to yourself.
(Tatman Run Beach is normally open from Memorial Day to Labor Day.)
7. Trough Creek State Park
Ready for a little adventure?
Trough Creek State Park is just a short drive from the lake, and it’s packed with wild trails, rocky cliffs, and movie-like forests.
Don’t miss the short hike to Balanced Rock, a giant boulder chilling on the edge of a cliff.
Also check out the dreamy little Rainbow Falls, where the water tumbles down mossy rocks like something out of a storybook.
8. Standing Stone Trail (Thousand Steps Trail)
If you’re up for a challenge with major bragging rights, hit the Thousand Steps Trail along the Standing Stone Trail.
True to its name, this trail climbs Jacks Mountain with more than 1,000 hand-laid stone steps, built by quarry workers in the 1930s.
The climb will seriously burn your legs, but the epic views from the top make every single step worth it.
9. Huntingdon
Once you’ve conquered the steps, head into the town of Huntingdon for a well-earned break and a little small-town magic.
This place has a cute downtown lined with cafes, diners, and fun little shops, making it ideal for strolling, snacking, and souvenir shopping.
Whether you grab a slice at Boxer’s or a sweet treat from Sweethearts, this town wraps you up like a warm hug after a day of exploring.
10. Lincoln Caverns
Before you wrap up your trip, explore the underground beauty of Lincoln Caverns, just outside of Huntingdon.
You’ll take a guided tour through two massive caves filled with sparkly crystals, flowstone formations, and wild shapes that look out of this world.
It’s cool (literally so bring a hoodie!) and super fun, especially if you’ve never been inside a real cave before.
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