I hear the whisper of pines. The trail is calling. It's been a long winter, but spring is finally here. It's time to dig out my hiking shoes and drive to the Pine Creek Gorge, also known as the Pennsylvania Grand Canyon.
The Canyon offers many recreational activities-such as hiking, fishing, biking, birding, and whitewater rafting in the spring. This gem of the Northeast is located just ten miles outside Wellsboro, Pennsylvania on PA 660.
Two state parks straddle the rim of the canyon, overlooking Pine Creek, and the Pine Creek Rail Trail. Leonard Harrison State Park is more developed and is located on the east rim. There is a visitor center here with a scenic overlook, and the top entrance to the Turkey Path.
The Turkey Path is a winding, one-mile trail that descends to the canyon floor, where it connects to the rail trail. The path starts with an easy grade, but quickly becomes a series of switchbacks. It can be a strenuous hike. Be sure to have sturdy shoes and water. Down and up usually takes less than two hours.
You may want to take extra time to enjoy the scenery. About halfway down, the trail parallels Little Four Mile Run and several waterfalls. There are several wooden observation decks, steps and railings that were built in the mid 90s. This makes the hike more accessible, and helps prevent erosion of the canyon walls.
Before you begin the return hike, you may want to walk along the Pine Creek Rail Trail, which presently is about 62 miles long. It's a nice, flat grade that is great for biking. Many entrances to the trail can be accessed by car if you want to bike or horse ride. Several area businesses rent bicycles.
The Gorge was officially designated by the Pennsylvania Audubon Society as an important birding area in 2004. You may view numerous woodland species on your hike down-such as hermit thrushes and scarlet tanagers.
American Bald Eagles have been nesting in the canyon since the late 80s. It's not unusual to see a bald eagle up close while walking along the Pine Creek Trail, and from the overlooks it is common to see Cooper's hawks and other raptors.
If you haven't tried birding from a bicycle, this is a good place to give it a try. You won't scare the wildlife, and it allows you to cover several habitats, which will increase your species count while visiting the canyon.
Afterwards, check out the town of Wellsboro. You can find several choices for dinner, stroll the gas-lit Main Street, or shop at a family owned business. Check out the local chamber of commerce for a calendar of events.
Wellsboro Area Chamber of Commerce
114 Main St
Wellsboro PA 16901
www.wellsboropa.com
(570)724-1926
Start of the Turkey Path
One of the many waterfalls along the Turkey Path
Photo of one of our eagles in the area.
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