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Hike, Bike & Paddle Through NEPA’s Countryside
The Endless Mountains are like NEPA’s big backyard. Located just north of the Valley cities, our region boasts plenty of room to roam with miles of trails and hundreds of thousands of acres of public lands. True to our name, our rolling hills and vast forests seem to go on forever– perfect for a getaway in the great outdoors!
In the Endless Mountains, our parks and trails offer something for everyone, from short, easy hikes to rugged backwoods adventures. Peaceful lakes, pristine streams and the mighty Susquehanna River provide endless opportunities for boating and fishing. And you can’t miss our area’s scenic overlooks and rushing waterfalls.
With warm, sunny days ahead, there’s no better time to discover the natural beauty of the Endless Mountains. Over the past year, our region has unveiled several new outdoor initiatives that you won’t want to miss. Check out these ideas throughout Sullivan, Susquehanna and Wyoming counties.
Explore NEPA’s Newest State Park
In autumn 2022, Vosburg Neck State Park near Tunkhannock was declared one of Pennsylvania’s newest state parks. Previously known as the Howland Preserve, this 669-acre property is already open to the public for day use.
The Vosburg Neck is a plunging oxbow bend where the Susquehanna River curves around the land in a dramatic U-shape. Visitors can easily access the river from the park’s non-motorized boat launch, which is perfect for kayak and canoe trips. The launch area offers stunning views of the water surrounded by rocky cliffs and majestic mountains. If you’re lucky, you’ll spot the bald eagles that call the area home.
Vosburg Neck State Park also features about eight miles of hiking trails. Most of the trails are easy or moderate, which make great options for families. Take the Old Farm Road Trail for a stroll through the meadows or wander along the Whitetail Trail for a relaxing walk in the woods. If you’re up for a little challenge, try the Vista Trail. This 2.3-mile trek will lead you through the forest to a sweeping overlook of the river and farmland below.
Ride the Endless Mountains Gravel Bikepacking Loop
Bikepacking is similar to long-distance backpacking, where cyclists load up their bikes with gear and embark on a multi-day trip. It’s especially popular in the western United States, but the new Endless Mountains Gravel Bikepacking Loop (EMGBL) is now putting NEPA on the map for adventure cyclists.
The EMGBL follows over 400 miles of existing dirt roads and trails through Bradford, Sullivan, Susquehanna and Wyoming counties. The route features about 32,000 feet of elevation change with plenty of fun, challenging climbs through the mountains. It launched in summer 2022 and has already attracted attention from cyclists throughout the United States and Canada.
Aside from the epic riding, there’s no shortage of things to see and do along the journey. The EMGBL passes through some of the most scenic parts of the region, including the vast Loyalsock State Forest and the historic D&H Rail-Trail. Five state parks– Mount Pisgah, Ricketts Glen, Salt Springs, Vosburg Neck and Worlds End– are located on or near the designated route. Charming small towns line the way, where cyclists can rest and relax at local restaurants, shops, wineries and breweries, historic sites, museums and more.
An interactive map shows points of interest and resources along the route. You can also find the EMGBL on Strava and Ride with GPS. For a shorter ride, a connector route divides the EMGBL into eastern and western loops, which are perfect for a weekend trip.
Experience PA’s 2023 River of the Year
In the Endless Mountains, the Susquehanna River is known for its wild beauty. Here, the river carves its way through the mountains, gliding past serene forests and rural countryside. It’s no wonder that the North Branch was voted Pennsylvania’s 2023 River of the Year.
Take a paddling trip to soak up the views. Endless Mountain Outfitters in Sugar Run and Susquehanna Kayak & Canoe Rentals in Falls are the experts when it comes to river trips. These outfitters can provide everything you need, from boat rentals to shuttle service. Beginners are welcome!
You can also enjoy the river at our local parks. Take a stroll at Ira Reynolds Riverfront Park in Susquehanna, which features a walking trail that’s about a mile long. Riverside Park in Tunkhannock is another excellent spot to take a walk or enjoy a picnic on the riverbank.
Plan Your Endless Mountains Adventure
We’ve only scratched the surface of all the outdoor fun in the Endless Mountains. For more ideas, check out the Endless Mountains Outdoor Recreation Guide. This comprehensive booklet includes dozens of local parks, trails, public lands, campgrounds, outfitters and more. You can download a digital version or request a free copy via mail. You can also call the Endless Mountains Visitors Bureau at (570) 836-5431 or stop by our Visitors Center at 5405 State Route 6 in Tunkhannock. Hours are Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Featured Image (Top) Courtesy of Harriet Smith
