Discover the Magic of Kinzua Bridge State Park
Looking for a day trip that combines a rich slice of Pennsylvania history with jaw-dropping scenery? Set your sights on Kinzua Bridge State Park in Mount Jewett, just about four hours from NEPA. This 339-acre park in northern Pennsylvania offers visitors a dramatic Skywalk, rugged hiking, and plenty of opportunities to picnic, fish, and explore.
From Railroad Marvel to Skywalk Wonder
Originally built in 1882, the Kinzua Viaduct was once the tallest and longest railroad bridge in the world, soaring 301 feet high and stretching 2,130 feet across the Kinzua Gorge. Its size and ambition earned it the nickname “The Eighth Wonder of the World.” The bridge was rebuilt with steel in 1900 to accommodate heavier trains hauling coal and timber through the region.
Nature, however, had other plans. In 2003, a tornado tore through the area, toppling much of the viaduct. Rather than erase the past, Pennsylvania chose to reinvent it. In 2011, the remaining 600 feet of the structure reopened as the Kinzua Bridge Skywalk, a breathtaking pedestrian walkway perched high above the gorge.
Walk the Sky
Today, visitors can stroll out onto the Skywalk and experience sweeping views of the Kinzua Gorge and the dramatic debris field left by the tornado. At the end, step onto the partial glass platform and gaze straight down to the forest floor. It’s as thrilling as it is beautiful! On clear days, you can see for miles across rolling hills and dense forest.
Hike the Challenging Kinzua Creek Trail
If you’re an experienced hiker craving an extra adventure, take on the Kinzua Creek Trail. This rugged path is less than a half-mile each way, but don’t let the short distance fool you. It’s steep, rocky, and recommended only for hikers in good physical condition with sturdy footwear. Your reward is an unbeatable vantage point of the Skywalk towering above the gorge and the remnants of the viaduct below.
More Ways to Explore
Beyond the Skywalk, Kinzua Bridge State Park is perfect for a laid-back afternoon:
- Picnic Areas: Spread out a blanket and enjoy lunch with stunning views.
- Fishing: Cast a line for native brook trout in Kinzua Creek.
- Wildlife Watching: Spot birds and native species along the gorge.
- Biking: The Kinzua Bridge Scenic Byway is a designated shared-use hike/bike corridor.
- Visitor Center: Explore self-guided exhibits on the bridge’s history, the tornado, and local wildlife.
Plan Ahead & Stay Safe
The Skywalk and Kinzua Creek Trail can close during severe weather, including snow, ice, thunderstorms, or high winds, and routine maintenance can also cause temporary closures. Visitors are prohibited from walking under the Skywalk in the area of the downed towers for safety reasons. Before you go, check the weather forecast and the park’s alert section to avoid surprises.
Why It’s Worth the Drive
With its rich history, awe-inspiring views, and rugged trails, Kinzua Bridge State Park is one of those rare day trips that’s as educational as it is exhilarating. Whether you’re standing on the glass platform hundreds of feet above the forest floor or hiking along the creek to see the Skywalk from below, this destination offers a memorable escape into the Pennsylvania Wilds, all within a day’s drive from Northeastern PA.
Conservation Tip
By following these responsible outdoor ethics from our friends at DCNR, we can help keep Pennsylvania’s state parks and forests top-tier outdoor recreation destinations for generations to come.
Leave No Trace
- Plan Ahead and Prepare: Know regulations, prepare for weather and emergencies, travel in small groups, minimize waste, and use a map and compass instead of marking trails.
- Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces: Stay on established trails, camp at least 200 feet from water, and avoid damaging pristine areas.
- Dispose of Waste Properly: Pack out all trash, use catholes for human waste, and wash dishes 200 feet from water sources with biodegradable soap.
- Leave What You Find: Preserve historical sites, avoid disturbing nature, and prevent the spread of invasive species.
- Minimize Campfire Impacts: Use stoves when possible, keep fires small, burn wood to ash, and fully extinguish campfires.
- Respect Wildlife: Observe from a distance, don’t feed animals, store food properly, and control pets to avoid disturbing wildlife.
- Be Considerate of Other Visitors: Respect others by keeping noise low, yielding on trails, and camping away from high-traffic areas.
Go Outside and Play at NEPA’s 18 PA State Parks!
