7 natural wonders in Pennsylvania you have to put on your bucket list

The official end of summer may be approaching, but there’s still plenty of warm weather days ahead to get out and enjoy these natural wonders across the state.

Pennsylvania is home to numerous natural wonders and breathtaking landscapes. From majestic waterfalls to caves, mountains, and fields, our state seems to have it all.

If you haven’t already visited some of these captivating destinations, you definitely need to plan a trip soon. Thankfully, any time is the perfect time for a road trip in Pennsylvania. So pack your suitcase, gas up the car, and hit the highway to see some of the amazing wonders of the commonwealth in an epic adventure.

Pine Creek Gorge – Lycoming County

Commonly known as the Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania, Pine Creek Gorge in Lycoming County spans 160,000 acres and has breathtaking views of scenic vistas. Take the 1.7 mile Turkey Path Trail to the bottom of the gorge. Along the way you’ll see amazing waterfalls.

Coudersport Ice Mine – Coudersport

Tucked away in the rolling hills of Potter County is Coudersport Ice Mine. It is one of the oddest natural wonders in the state, as massive icicles begin forming in the hot days of summer, and in winter, the ice pretty much disappears. After you’ve visited the mine, treat yourself to a snack from the gift shop.

Photo courtesy of Nicholas Tonelli

Cherry Springs State Park – Coudersport

Cherry Springs State Park in Coudersport sits atop a 2,500-foot mountain and is surrounded by undeveloped forest, making it the darkest spot on the Eastern Seaboard. It provides an idyllic spot for stargazing all year round. The park offers two viewing areas: one for casual stargazers and one for serious astronomers, the latter of which allows for overnight stays.

If you visit when it’s rainy, though, you’ll have to share the park with some amphibian visitors. Frogs take full advantage of all the puddles at the state park. While playing they croak a very loud tune and are not shy about hopping on you.

Archbald Pothole State Park – Lackawanna County

In Pennsylvania, we know a thing or two about potholes. So it’s only fitting that the world’s largest pothole is located in the commonwealth. The Archbald Pothole State Park in Lackawanna County is a small, 150-acre park that features a massive pothole measuring 42 feet by 24 feet and a depth of 38 feet. The crevice is large enough to accommodate 35 fire truck tankers. 

Ringing Rocks County Park – Bucks County

Be sure you take your hammer with you when you visit Ringing Rocks County Park in Bucks County. The 123-acre park features a field of large rocks that, when struck with a hammer, ring. Scientists still have no idea why the rocks “ring” when they’re hit.

Ricketts Glen State Park – Columbia County

If you love waterfalls, then you definitely need to check out Ricketts Glen State Park in Columbia County. This park is home to 22 named waterfalls. Stroll along the 7.9-mile Falls Trail to see 21 of the waterfalls, including the 94-foot Ganoga Falls. 

Penn’s Cave & Wildlife Park – Centre County

Penn’s Cave & Wildlife Park in Centre County is the only all-water cave in the US. You can tour the limestone cavern by boat then go on a wildlife tour or pan for gemstones. Or get yourself lost in the Miner’s Maze.