Curious Parents Places to Go

Destinations

Pine Creek Gorge: A Natural Wonder!
By Carol Reed

Pine Creek Gorge is one of the most spectacular areas in our region, a natural wonder often called the “Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania.” It is located in 160,000 acres of the Tioga State Forest. It begins south of Ansonia along US Route 6 and continues for approximately 47 miles. The canyon plunges to 1,450 feet deep at Waterville, near the southern end. In Leonard Harrison and Colton Point State Parks, it is more than 800 feet deep, and is approximately 4,000 feet across.

Pine Creek Gorge has been a National Natural Landmark since 1968. It is a place for all members of the family to find something fascinating, in town or out of doors, with endless opportunities for sightseeing. View dramatic rock outcrops and waterfalls. Spot abundant wildlife such as eagles, osprey, coyote, deer, wild turkeys, herons, hawks or even river otters. Rare plants, lush forests, and even the old Civilian Conservation Corps camp foundation can be found along Pine Creek Trail.

Pine Creek Trail has been rated as one of the 10 great places to take a tour. The shoreline and waters of Pine Creek were traveled by Seneca Indians hundreds of years ago using footpath and canoe. By 1883, a railroad was built along the trail, and trains carried lumber, coal, and passengers. Today, the trail is 42 miles from Ansonia off of Route 6 to Waterville on Route 44.

Enjoy the trail in a variety of ways, from challenging trail biking to relaxed strolling. Rent bikes, hike, use a shuttle, go canoeing, take a guided ride on horseback, or even go by covered wagon! Camping Permits are available at the Tioga District Office at One Nessmuk Lane, Wellsboro, PA. (570) 724-2868. Camping is permitted in designated areas only.

Leonard Harrison State Park features the Turkey Path Trail, which descends one mile to the Canyon floor, or the Overlook trail, a scenic sixth of a mile loop. Campgrounds are open from April through October with rustic sites.  Some have electricity and sanitary dump stations. Check for programs offered through the environmental center. Picnic areas, playground, visitor center and gift shop are also available.

Colton Point State Park features four miles of hiking trails including the Turkey Path Trail. Many more miles of trails are accessible through the Tioga State Forest, adjacent to the park. Camping is open from April through October with tenting and organized group tenting available. This is an ideal spot for picnicking. Check for other attractions in and around the Canyon such as biking, rafting, canoeing, horseback, wagon rides and fishing. For camping reservations call 1-888-PA-PARKS

Leonard Harrison State Park offers camping, playground, picnicking, hiking, overlooks, environmental education and visitor center. Colton Point State Park offers camping, organized group tenting, snowmobiling, playground, picnicking, hiking,  scenic overlooks, fishing, and hunting. Visit on the web at www.visittiogapa.com/grandcanyon.html 

Carol Reed is a middle school teacher & freelance journalist who specializes in travel writing. Carol’s journeys have taken her as close to home as the New Jersey Pines & as far as the islands in the Caribbean, New Zealand & Australia