How Many Hiking Trails Are in Pennsylvania?

Hiking in Pennsylvania is a great way to explore the beauty and diversity of the state. With over 11,000 miles of trails, Pennsylvania offers a wide variety of terrain, from mountains to coastlines, from rolling hills to deep forests. Whether you’re looking for an easy stroll or a challenging trek, there’s something for everyone in Pennsylvania.

The Pennsylvania Bureau of Parks and Recreation oversees more than 120 state parks and forests, as well as hundreds of local parks throughout the state. While not all of these parks offer hiking trails, many do – some with easy-to-follow paths and others requiring more experienced navigation skills. The scenic Appalachian Trail runs through Pennsylvania for more than 130 miles and is one of the most popular hikes in the state.

The Allegheny National Forest is home to over 1 million acres of wilderness areas and offers a variety of hiking trails ranging from easy hikes along creeks and rivers to more challenging treks up steep hills or across remote ridges. The Susquehannock State Forest has nearly 100 miles of trails that range from easy walks along riverside boardwalks to long distance hikes through remote wilderness areas.

For those looking for something truly unique, there are several “rail trails” that follow former railroad tracks throughout the state. These often provide flat terrain with minimal elevation changes and can be great routes for novice hikers or families with young children. The Pine Creek Rail Trail in Tioga County is one such trail – it stretches nearly 60 miles along an abandoned rail line while passing through some of the most beautiful scenery in the area.

No matter your hiking experience level or desired scenery, there’s sure to be a trail in Pennsylvania that suits your needs. With such an extensive network of trails, there’s no shortage of options when it comes to exploring the great outdoors in this beautiful state!
Conclusion:
In total, there are over 11,000 miles of hiking trails located throughout Pennsylvania – from easy strolls along riverside boardwalks to challenging treks up steep hills or across remote ridges – making it a great destination for hikers looking for any type of experience level or desired scenery!

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Samantha Mckinney