Scenic Drives & Canyon Views at the PA Grand Canyon
Just about 2.5 hours from NEPA, a day trip (or maybe even a weekend getaway) to the PA Grand Canyon is the perfect blend of outdoor adventure and small-town charm. Officially known as Pine Creek Gorge, is a breathtaking natural wonder stretching nearly 50 miles through Tioga County in northcentral Pennsylvania. Visitors can take in sweeping canyon views from easily accessible overlooks, hike along scenic trails, bike the nationally acclaimed Pine Creek Rail Trail, or paddle the waters of Pine Creek itself.
Carved over thousands of years by Pine Creek, the gorge plunges nearly 1,500 feet deep in some areas and is flanked by two stunning PA state parks— Leonard Harrison on the east rim and Colton Point on the west. This dramatic landscape is part of the larger Tioga State Forest and offers a rare glimpse into Pennsylvania’s glacial past, showcasing dense forests, rugged rock formations, and rich wildlife ecosystems.
The nearby town of Wellsboro adds to the experience with its historic streets, welcoming eateries, and cozy accommodations. Whether you’re looking for a quiet nature retreat or an active itinerary, a trip to the canyon offers something for every traveler. Grab a canyon map and check out these highlights.
For scenic views of the Canyon there are the Overlook Trail (0.6 mi.) and the Colton Rim Trail (1.5 mi.) at Leonard Harrison and Colton Point State Parks respectively. But for really expansive views you may want to try the Barbour Rock Trail (1.0 or a 3.4 mi. loop) or portions of the West Rim Trail. For views of the valley that held the glacial Ice Age lake, there are several trails in Ansonia such as Mount Tom (1.5 mi.) and Dry Hollow (1.5 mi.).
Photo courtesy of Tricia K. Dilley Zuniga
The Pine Creek Gorge Rail Trail is a must-do for avid bikers and nature lovers. It’s the only rail trail in the Appalachian Mountains of north-central Pennsylvania. The Pine Creek Rail Trail is a converted railroad bed that allows bikers to have an easy journey through the canyon. This is a low impact (handicap accessible) trail with only a slight grade. The Pine Creek Rail Trail begins just north of the town of Wellsboro, runs south through Pine Creek Gorge and ends all the way at the Jersey Shore.
Photo courtesy of Wellsboro Area Chamber of Commerce
Pine Creek is a combination of moderate whitewater, long quiet pools, outstanding scenic drama, and sensory exhilaration around each bend. Tourists often say that the best way to see the Canyon is on the water. If you are canoeing or kayaking, there are plenty of guided raft trips available through local outfitters.
*Note: Pine Creek has no dams for water releases, so level is dependent on snowmelt and rainfall.
Photo courtesy of Pine Creek Outfitters
Rest, Refuel, and Relax Near the PA Grand Canyon
There are plenty of lodging and dining options near the PA Grand Canyon. Whether you’re looking for a cozy bed and breakfast, a rustic camping experience, or a family-friendly hotel, the surrounding area offers a variety of comfortable places to stay. When it comes to dining, you’ll find everything from hearty, home-cooked meals to refined local cuisine, all served with the kind of hospitality that makes visitors feel right at home. With so many great choices nearby, planning your stay is easy—just follow the links to explore local accommodations and eateries.
One of the most memorable ways to explore the bottom of Pine Creek Gorge is aboard an old-fashioned, horse-drawn wagon ride with Ole Covered Wagons. This guided tour takes you along the Pine Creek Rail Trail, offering a relaxed and scenic journey through the heart of the canyon. It’s a unique opportunity to learn about the area’s natural and cultural history while enjoying stunning views—all from the comfort of a classic covered wagon.
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.
