With A Covered Bridge And A Surprise Waterfall, Slippery Rock Gorge Trail Is The Ideal Pennsylvania Summer Hike
By Beth Price-Williams|Published August 06, 2020
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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.
Summer’s all about enjoying the golden sunshine and spending time outdoors. After all, before we know it, we’ll be knee-deep in the snow of winter. (That probably sounds pretty good when we’re in the throes of a heatwave.) Save one of those beautiful summer days to set off on the ideal Pennsylvania summer hike, which boasts an abundance of natural and man-made beauty.
Make sure you're in good physical shape before you begin your journey along Slippery Rock Gorge Trail in McConnells Mill State Park in Portersville.
You'll start the 6.2-mile trail following the blue blazes. The trail is rated more difficult compared to others, so ensure you're ready for the challenge.
It's also a one-way trail. Unless you plan to go in and come back out, you'll need to arrange a ride from the end of the trail at Eckert's Covered Bridge.
You'll follow along Slippery Rock Creek and through lush forested area. Bring enough water to drink, and do not get too close to the water. The creek is powerful, and there have been recent drownings.
The first part of the trail ends at Eckert Covered Bridge, an idyllic spot to snap photos. (The water nearby is very powerful and the rocks can be incredibly slippery, so be careful.)
The Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) recommends allotting at least six hours for the trip if you plan to go both ways.
What do you think is the ideal Pennsylvania summer hike? Let us know in the comments! Do you prefer natural swimming holes to the local pool or water park? You’ll definitely want to check out the five best waterfall swimming holes in Pennsylvania.
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