There’s No Other Landmark In Pennsylvania Quite Like These 300-Million-Year-Old Rock Formations
By Beth Price-Williams|Published January 11, 2023
×
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.
A bucket list allows us the unique opportunity to really think about those things we want to do, see, and accomplish. Even if we don’t write it all down, we all probably have those bucket list-worthy destinations in our thoughts, things we really want to see or do. Consider adding these rock formations in Pennsylvania. Dating back millions of years, they are just one of Pennsylvania’s natural wonders.
Wear a pair of comfy walking shoes for your visit to Bilger’s Rocks in Grampian; one of the best ways to explore this natural wonder in Pennsylvania is on a picturesque hiking trail.
Make sure you bring your camera along, too, because these rock formations, which date back more than 300 million years, are sure to take your breath away.
The series of rock formations are predominately comprised of sandstone and were once covered by limestone and shale that has since eroded. Experts estimate that Bilger’s Rocks formed between 290 and 354 million years ago.
Referred to by some as a “Rock City,” the rock formations create a maze of sorts, featuring caves, cliffs, and passageways in addition to the boulders chiseled by the elements.
If you’re a fan of climbing, bring the proper gear to climb the boulders. Even if you’re not up for climbing, set off on one of the hiking trails that total around 10 miles.
The shortest trail, the Pink Trail, clocks in at just three-quarters of a mile and is ideal if you don’t have a lot of time. However, the trails are all fairly short, with the longest, the Yellow Trail, spanning just over 1.25 miles.
Before setting off on a trail, stop by the concession stand or the education center, if they’re open, to grab a copy of the self-guided tour. It will lead you to 10 fascinating spots within the natural area.
During the warmer months, the area features a concession stand that is open on select days. There’s also a playground for the kiddos and a primitive camping area. If you’re up for an old-school camping adventure, you’ve found it.
Have you been to these rock formations in Pennsylvania? What did you think? Share your experience in the comments! For another unique adventure, plan a visit to this abandoned paper factory in Pennsylvania.
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.