HUNDREDS OF MILES.
FOUR COUNTIES.
The Endless Mountains of northeastern Pennsylvania offer hundreds of miles of hiking across four counties, Bradford, Sullivan, Susquehanna, and Wyoming. Whether you want a short waterfall walk, a family-friendly loop, a flat rail trail, or a rugged backcountry trek, you’ll find it here, including five state parks, two state forests, and the award-winning D&H Rail Trail.
Unforgettable Views
Overlooks and vistas around every turn
Trails for Every Level
Easy strolls to rugged adventures
Four Seasons of Beauty
Stunning scenery year round
Where are the best family-friendly and easy hikes?
For a relaxed outing, head to the flatter, well-maintained trails in the region. The D&H (Delaware & Hudson) Rail Trail in eastern Susquehanna County, named the 2021 Pennsylvania Trail of the Year, is a gentle, mostly level path ideal for families, strollers, and casual walkers. Other easy favorites include the Trolley Trail in Wyoming County, the Meadow Trail at Salt Springs State Park, the Mill Stream Trail at Mt. Pisgah State Park, and the trails at Mokoma Conservancy.
Where can I see waterfalls?
The Endless Mountains is one of the best places in Pennsylvania to hike to waterfalls. Ricketts Glen State Park in Sullivan County is the standout: its Falls Trail system passes a series of named waterfalls along a forested gorge. Several other parks feature cascades and seasonal falls, most dramatic in spring snowmelt and after heavy rain.
Where can I go birding or see bald eagles?
Many hikers here are also birders. The American bald eagle has made a strong comeback and is often seen soaring above the Susquehanna River. The region also hosts raptors, owls, waterfowl, herons, and more. Quiet riverside and wetland trails offer the best viewing. Two of the best spots are Mokoma Conservancy in Sullivan County and Vosburg Neck State Park, located right on the Susquehanna River. Bring your binoculars!
When is the best time to hike in the Endless Mountains?
The best time to hike in the Endless Mountains is all year long, thanks to the variety of trails across the four counties. In winter, try Vosburg Neck State Park or the D&H Rail Trail. Spring brings rushing waterfalls, especially at Salt Springs State Park. In summer, head for the shaded trails of Mt. Pisgah State Park and Ricketts Glen State Park. And in fall, the foliage in Sullivan County is well sought after, Worlds End State Park is a favorite among leaf peepers, and Miller Mountain in Pinchot State Forest is another great contender for fall color.
Which state parks have the best hiking?
Five destinations within and near the Endless Mountains region.
Sullivan County
Ricketts Glen State Park
The region’s signature destination, famous for its Falls Trail and a series of waterfalls through a deep forest gorge. Steep, rocky sections along the falls.
Moderate–Strenuous
Sullivan County
Worlds End State Park
Moderate-Strenuous
Susquehanna County
Salt Springs State Park
Known for hemlock groves, old-growth forest, and waterfalls along Fall Brook. Generally moderate, family approachable trails.
Easy–Moderate
Wyoming County
Vosburg Neck State Park
Easy
Bradford County
Mount Pisgah State Park
Easy-Moderate
Sullivan County
Loyalsock State Forest
Known for luscious waterfalls and plenty of trails from easy to strenuous, this state forest is home to the Loyalsock Trail, a 57 mile trail stretching through Sullivan County with views, waterfalls, and steep cliffs along the way.
Easy-Strenuous
Wyoming County
Pinchot State Forest
Home to the Miller Mountain Trail, small mileage, but a lot of elevation gain all at once depending on which side of the hill you start from.
Strenuous
Frequently asked questions
Where is the Endless Mountains region in Pennsylvania?
The Endless Mountains are a scenic, rugged region in Northeastern Pennsylvania. The area is geographically part of the Appalachian Mountains and spans four primary counties: Bradford, Sullivan, Susquehanna, and Wyoming.
What is the best hike for beginners?
There’s a great beginner hike in every county. In Bradford County, try the Diahoga Trail in Athens or the Oh! Susanna Trail at Mt. Pisgah State Park. In Wyoming County, the Trolley Trail or any of the Vosburg Neck trails. In Sullivan County, the Summit Loop at The Summit: Center for Wellness or the trails at Mokoma Conservancy. And in Susquehanna County, the D&H Rail Trail or any of the Salt Springs trails.
What is the most famous waterfall hike?
Ricketts Glen State Park’s Falls Trail is the region’s most popular waterfall hike, passing a series of falls through a forested gorge.
Are dogs allowed on the trails?
Policies vary by park and trail; dogs are typically allowed on leash in designated areas. Verify current DCNR pet rules before your visit, and always remember to clean up after your pet and leave areas better than you found them (leave no trace).
Is there a fee to hike in the state parks?
Pennsylvania state parks generally do not charge an entrance fee for hiking.
Plan your hike with the free Outdoor Recreation Guide
Trails, maps, campgrounds and waterfalls across all four counties in one downloadable guide.
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