7 Picturesque Trails In Pennsylvania That Are Perfect For Winter Hiking
By Beth Price-Williams|Updated on December 01, 2023(Originally published December 20, 2022)
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Beth Price-Williams
Author
A professional writer for more than two decades, Beth has lived in nearly a dozen states – from Missouri and Virginia to Connecticut and Vermont – and Toronto, Canada. In addition to traveling extensively in the U.S. and the U.K., she has a BA in Journalism from Point Park University (PA), a MA in Holocaust & Genocide Studies from Stockton University (NJ), and a Master of Professional Writing from Chatham University (PA). A writer and editor for Only In Your State since 2016, Beth grew up in and currently lives outside of Pittsburgh and when she’s not writing or hanging out with her bunnies, budgies, and chinchilla, she and her daughter are out chasing waterfalls.
Wintertime’s just made for curling up under thick, plush blankets and staying toasty. However, sometimes the adventurer in us craves time outdoors after the snow falls and the landscape is simply spellbinding. These picturesque trails in Pennsylvania are undoubtedly pretty all year round, but they’re an absolute must-visit during the winter. If you’ve been searching on Google for the “best winter hikes near me,” you’ve just hit paydirt.
1. Mount Davis Highpoint Trail – Mount Davis
Mount Davis, Mt Davis, Elk Lick Township, PA 15558, USA
Whether you're looking for one of the best winter walking trails or prefer winter hiking, you'll find both atop Mount Davis. While you can park in the parking lot and just walk to the nearby observation tower, which offers sweeping views of Mount Davis, the highest point in Pennsylvania, you might also want to set off on a winter adventure. The 5.4-mile Mount Davis Highpoint Trail meanders along a snow-covered path. Whichever way you get to the observation tower, be prepared for a careful climb up the stairs, which can be slippery and icy after a snowfall. Hiking poles might be a good idea.
Have you been to the highest point in Pennsylvania yet?
Go on a wintry stroll in Mount Davis by watching this YouTube video by Michael Petenbrink.
2. Raymondskill Falls Loop Trail – Milford
Raymondskill Falls, Dingman Township, PA 18337, USA
Only one thing comes close to the sheer beauty of Raymondskill Falls, the tallest waterfall in Pennsylvania, and that's the gorgeous cascade framed by snow. You might even visit when the three-tier waterfall is frozen. Follow the Raymondskill Falls Loop Trail, which will take you straight to this natural wonder. Hiking in the winter in Pennsylvania doesn't get better than this pretty path, but keep in mind that it can get quite slippery and icy during the winter. Take proper precautions, and wear sturdy boots. Read more about Pennsylvania's tallest waterfall in our previous article.
Here's a breathtaking video of Raymondskill Falls, surrounded by snow during the winter, shot by Dreamscape Aerials, LLC on YouTube.
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3. Laurel Hill Lake Trail – Somerset
Laurel Hill State Park, 1454 Laurel Hill Park Rd, Somerset, PA 15501, USA
For an easy yet bewitching winter hike in Pennsylvania, set off on the one-mile Copper Kettle Trail. Meander along the icy Laurel Hill Lake, perfect for snapping photos, and keep an eye out for local wildlife. Learn more about this winter hike in Pennsylvania in our previous article.
Clocking in at just under 3.5 miles, Tank Hollow Trail beckons hikers of all skill levels in each season. The easy trail, perhaps one of the best winter walking trails in Pennsylvania, is perfect if you're bringing the kiddos and/or the pups along, or if you're new to hiking. A predominately flat trail, Tank Hollow leads past waterfalls and to stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Discover why Tank Hollow Trail might be the most beautiful trail in Pennslyvania in our previous article.
5. Chickies Rock Overlook Trail – Columbia
Chickies Rock Overlook Trail, Chickies Rock Overlook Trl, West Hempfield Township, PA 17512, USA
Even if you're not a fan of the cold and the snow, you'll likely fall head over heels on this short but sweet trail. Tallying just half a mile, it leads to sensational views of the Susquehanna River. Pups are allowed on the trail, and it's wide enough to accommodate strollers, making it perfect for a winter hike. Read more about this kid-friendly trail in Pennsylvania.
If you thought chasing waterfalls was fun during the summer, wait until you try it when the landscape is sprinkled with snow. The somewhat challenging Little Falls Trail measures 2.7 miles and boasts several waterfalls. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, too, including bald eagles. Read more about this waterfall trail in Pennsylvania.
Jacoby Falls, a beautiful cascade, sits along the picturesque 3.3-mile Jacoby Hollow Trail. Wear sturdy boots as the terrain can get rocky and icy at times. The highlight of the trail is the tumbling cascade, which is absolutely breathtaking when frozen. Take a peek at the natural beauty that awaits on the Jacoby Hollow Trail.
Where is your favorite place to go winter hiking in Pennsylvania? What are your favorite winter walking trails? Let us know in the comments! Then, for more winter fun, check out these nine places you must visit in Pennsylvania in winter.
Hiking in the winter requires a bit more planning than other times of the year, so be sure you bundle up in a warm winter coat; wear a pair of sturdy hiking boots, and maybe even bring hiking poles to help you navigate the potentially snowy and icy landscapes.
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More to Explore
Winter In Pennsylvania
Beth Price-Williams|December 01, 2023
What are some of the best places to visit in Pennsylvania in winter?
Does it get any better than getting outdoors, breathing in that fresh air, and soaking up the beauty of the frozen landscape on a winter hike? That’s not all there is to do during the coldest season of the year in Pennsylvania, though. Here are a few must-visit places to visit in Pennsylvania in winter.
The tiny village of Eagles Mere hosts an epic toboggan ride right in town. (However, it only runs during winters when the temperature gets cold enough.)
Go on a picturesque hike or a scenic drive with a winter visit to Renovo, the most remote town in Pennsylvania.
Marvel at the frozen Cucumber Falls and Ohiopyle Falls at Ohiopyle State Park.
Explore McConnells Mill Park State Park on snowshoes. The park also provides an idyllic backdrop for winter hiking.
Start your adventure at the Visitor Center of Valley Forge National Historical Park before exploring the snowy landscape on one of the park’s hiking trails.
