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.
With its many scenic byways, natural wonders, and fascinating attractions, Pennsylvania is a prime destination for a road trip. However, when we’re so spoiled with choices, we might have a difficult time deciding where to hit the road next. One of the most beautiful scenic byways in the state, West Branch Susquehanna River Scenic Byway provides a picture-perfect backdrop, and some of the best hidden gems in Pennsylvania along the way, for an unforgettable and thrilling road trip. Even better? You can enjoy it all in a single day. All you have to do is pack the car with all of your favorite snacks and drinks, fill up the gas tank, and hit the road. (If you’ve got a vehicle with off-road capabilities, you’ll love this road trip even more.)
Meandering 72 miles through Clearfield County, the West Branch Susquehanna River Scenic Byway, which just made its debut in 2012, boasts some of the most beautiful natural features in Pennsylvania.
The journey along this picturesque route measures 106 miles, which you can do in a little over 2.5 hours. During this beautiful adventure, you'll pass by rock formations, a wandering river, and even a historic covered bridge. If you're a fan of PA hidden gems, you'll love this short but sweet road trip.
Turn up the tunes and roll down the windows to let the fresh air blow in as we make our way to our first stop – McGees Mills Covered Bridge, an enchanting throwback to yesteryear. The covered bridge, which dates back to 1873, is the lone remaining covered bridge that crosses over the West Branch of the Susquehanna River.
With more than 200, Pennsylvania has more covered bridges than any other state. During their heyday, an estimated 12,000 covered bridges dotted the United States, and Pennsylvania was home to 1,500. That number has dwindled to around 1,000 around the country in the 21st century.
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Since the bridge is still open to vehicular traffic, you can drive over it. However, you first might want to pull off into the small parking area, so you can take photographs and admire the craftsmanship of the Burr-arch truss bridge, one of the most enchanting hidden gems in PA. There’s even a spot to enjoy a leisurely picnic if you decide to bring one along.
McGees Mills Covered Bridge, Covered Bridge Rd, Mahaffey, PA 15757, USA
If you didn't pack a picnic, Denny’s Beer Barrel Pub sits along the route. If you love a good and huge burger, you’ll definitely want to stop. It also boasts a few burger challenges if you’re up for one of them.
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Our next stop takes us to Bilger’s Rocks, a natural wonder that boasts 300-million-year-old boulders. You’ll definitely want to wear or bring along a pair of sturdy hiking shoes or boots, especially if you plan to climb the boulders.
Bilger's Rocks, 1921 Bilgers Rocks Rd, Grampian, PA 16838, USA
You have 10 miles of hiking trails from which to choose, with the longest Yellow Trail tallying just 1.29 miles. The natural attraction features a series of boulders, passageways, and caves that are certain to channel the adventurer in you. If you’re lucky, you will arrive at the natural wonder on a day when concessions are sold. Bilger’s Rocks also features a shady picnic area, opportunities for geocaching, and a campground.
Go on a tour of Bilger's Rocks, courtesy of Darrin Gennocro on YouTube.
Jump back into your vehicle for the nearly 10-mile drive to Curwensville Lake, which should take around 20 minutes. That gives you plenty of time to decide how you’ll spend your visit to the popular Central Pennsylvania destination.
Curwensville Lake charges a daily fee for visitors, with current rates (2023) at $3 per vehicle and $5 per vehicle if you’re bringing a watercraft. If you fall head over heels in love with the lake and its many amenities and plan to come back again and again, you might want to purchase a season pass.
The pristine lake, a PA hidden gem, offers something for everyone – whether you feel like sunbathing on the shore, cooling off in the water, partaking in its many amenities, or trying your hand at a bit of fishing.
You can also rent a kayak or a paddleboard, a fun and relaxing way to experience the lake. Curwensville Lake, one of the best hidden gems in PA, also features a dog park, cornhole boards, and a series of easy, moderate, and difficult hiking trails.
Ready to head to the final stop on our adventure and some amazing off-roading fun?
This portion of the trip is perfect for a vehicle with 4x4 capabilities, like the Nissan Frontier pictured here. It's the longest segment of the journey at 82 miles, but you’re going to have a whole lot of fun that will take you on PA-144 North to Hyner View State Park (and some of the most gorgeous views in all of PA).
Set your GPS for Hyner Mountain Road, which will take you onto unpaved, rugged forest roads, leading to the park.
When you arrive at Hyner Mountain Road, turn west and drive for one mile until you reach Richie Road. After making a left on Rithie Road, drive two miles and make a right on Old View Road.
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After about three miles, you’ll arrive at Hyner View Scenic Vista. It boasts absolutely spellbinding views of the West Branch of the Susquehanna River, framed by lush mountain ranges.
Hyner View State Park, 86 Hyner Park Road, North Bend, PA 17760, USA
If you’re up for some spine-tingling chills, go hang gliding at the cozy park.
Get a bird's eye view of Hyner View State Park in this YouTube video by Outdoor Van Adventures
Can you think of a better way to spend a leisurely day than exploring some of the most breathtaking attractions Central Pennsylvania has to offer? Do you agree that these are some of the best hidden gems in Pennsylvania? Let us know in the comments! If you’re craving a massive, juicy burger from one of the most beloved burger joints in Pennsylvania, add a stop at Denny’s Beer Barrel Pub to your route.
More to Explore
Best Hidden Gems In Pennsylvania
Beth Price-Williams|November 30, 2023
What are some other hidden gems in PA?
How lucky are we to live in a state where we’re surrounded by natural beauty and one-of-a-kind attractions? Up for an adventure? Check out some of the best hidden gems in Pennsylvania:
Feel as though you’ve stepped into a fairy at Salt Springs State Park in Montrose, a lush park brimming with waterfalls, hemlock trees, and a boardwalk trail.
Explore Bookworm Glen; stroll over a fairy-tale footbridge, and cross a pond on stepping stones at Pittsburgh Botanic Garden.
See the only wolves in Pennsylvania when you join a guided tour of Wolf Sanctuary of PA in Lititz.
Marvel at natural tubs as you wander along one of the pretty paths at Seven Tubs Nature Area in Wilkes-Barre.
Where should I go on a hidden gems road trip?
With so many hidden gems in Pennsylvania, we could spend years exploring. When adventure calls, answer by heading out on a road trip to some of the best hidden gems in PA. You’ll visit:
The White Cliffs of Conoy in Marietta stand 60 feet tall over the Susquehanna River. You’ll follow a short but sweet trail to this hidden gem that boasts stunning views.
Lace up your hiking boots and follow one of the hiking trails through ChesLen Preserve in Coatesville.
Explore Kalmbach Memorial Park in Macungie, a local park that’s home to a waterfall, a stream, and colorful flowers.
If you’re in Selinsgrove, head over to the Isle of Que, a 5.5-mile-long island that’s popular with boaters. You can also take a leisurely walk around the neighborhood on the island.
