Few People Know About These Pennsylvania Rock Outcrops That Are 600 Million Years Old
By Beth Price-Williams|Published March 02, 2023
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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.
One of the best things about living in Pennsylvania is, no matter how long we’ve been here, we’re always discovering something new – a hidden attraction or a natural wonder we simply didn’t know about. From Pine Creek Gorge to Bilger’s Rocks, Pennsylvania’s brimming with so many natural wonders that we naturally overlook a few. This natural wonder in Pennsylvania may not be as well known as others, but it’s certainly worth a visit.
Hiking usually promises adventure and sometimes even some unexpected surprises - crossing paths with wildlife or stumbling upon abandoned ruins. However, one hiking trail leads to a unique and little-known natural wonder in Pennsylvania.
Although it scores a moderate rating, the White Rocks Trail in Boiling Springs is worth the effort. After all, it leads to breathtaking rock formations.
The hiking trail travels along what the DCNR calls "a 600-million-year-old pinnacled ridge of Antietam quartzite." The ridge extends to Northwestern Georgia.
The trail begins on a valley floor and will take you to the top of the ridge where White Rocks Trail meets the Appalachian Trail. You will have an uphill climb.
While the scenic rewards are well worth the effort, come prepared for this hike that is incredibly rocky. Be prepared to scramble at some points, and wear sturdy boots.
Keep a few things in mind if you're hiking during the summer. Look out for snakes, and lather on the bug spray. The trail can get incredibly slippery after it rains or snows and when there are wet leaves on the ground.
In addition to the rock outcrops, this Pennsylvania trail also features breathtaking views from a scenic overlook.
Have you been to this natural wonder in Pennsylvania? What did you think? Share your experience in the comments! For more unique adventures, check out these 10 amazing man-made wonders in Pennsylvania.
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