Hike To A Cave And An Abandoned Mine Hiding In The Forest In Pennsylvania
By Beth Price-Williams|Published January 12, 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.
No matter where we live in Pennsylvania, we can always find new and fascinating places to explore. Even if we’ve visited a park numerous times, we usually discover something new on each visit. When you follow Raab Park Loop Trail in Pennsylvania, whether for the first or the dozenth time, you’re sure to uncover new hidden gems – from hidden caves to an abandoned mine.
P. Joseph Raab Park in Seven Valleys spans across 72 acres and boasts a rich history that dates back to 1854.
From 1854 to 1888, the land on which the park sits was home to the York Iron Company Mine, just one of approximately 170 mines in the county at the time.
After the mine shut down, its new owners used the land for agriculture purposes, with some of it going toward a landfill. However, the county regained ownership of the land in the late 20th century.
Today, it's a popular spot for those who want to explore its rich history. You can do that along the 1.5-mile Raab Park Loop Trail. The easy trail attracts hikers of all ages and skill levels.
Both hidden caves and the abandoned mine are the main highlights of the trail. However, you cannot enter the mine. Doors were built to cover the entrance to protect the four species of bats that call the mine home.
The trail can get slippery when wet, so be prepared if you hike after a rainfall or a snowfall. Only hiking is permitted. Bikes and horses are both prohibited in the park.
Hikers' opinions vary on whether it is a kid-friendly trail with some heralding it as an adventure for the little ones. Others, however, point to some hilliness that could present some difficulties.
Have you followed the Raab Park Loop Trail in Pennsylvania? What’d you think? Share your experience in the comments! Ready for another fun adventure that leads to a gorgeous covered bridge? Plan a visit to Covered Bridge Park in Allentown.
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