Pine Creek Rail Trail

The Pine Creek Rail Trail cuts through Pennsylvania’s Grand Canyon, following the abandoned Jersey Shore, Pine Creek and Buffalo Railway grade that once hauled lumber and coal through this massive gorge. The 62-mile crushed limestone trail runs from Wellsboro Junction north to Jersey Shore, with the most dramatic section between Ansonia and Blackwell where 1,000-foot canyon walls rise on both sides. Pine Creek rushes alongside much of the route, and the old railway bridges at Darling Run and Tiadaghton Creek offer prime photo spots above the whitewater.

This is an easy gravel ride suitable for any high-clearance vehicle, though the surface can get washboard rough after heavy rain. Best tackled April through October when the trees show color and creek levels are manageable. No permits required, but fuel up in Wellsboro beforehand — it’s 30 miles to the nearest gas once you’re committed. Multiple access points let you sample sections, but the full run gives you the complete Pennsylvania wilderness experience that made this gorge famous.