The Appalachian Mountains run through the middle of Pennsylvania, giving the state some great places to hike. So if you want to see the state’s natural beauty at its finest while getting a workout, you should visit one of the hiking trails on this list.

The Great Allegheny Passage

The Great Allegheny Passage starts in Cumberland, Maryland on the western side of the state and heads northwest to Pittsburgh. Despite cutting through several mountain ranges and passing over the valleys between, the GAP is remarkably level throughout its whole length, making it good for hikers of every experience level. And with several towns along the path, you can start and end your hike anywhere you like.

The Pine Creek Rail Trail

The Pine Creek Rail Trail takes travelers through the Pine Creek Gorge, a valley so big and deep that its nickname is “the Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania.” As an old rail line, the trail never gets too tough to walk, so you can focus more of your energy on enjoying the scenery.

Ghost Town Trail

The Ghost Town Trail is another old rail line and has a gravel surface. The trail passes through Indiana and Cambria Counties, and like the name suggests, you can find all kinds of ruined towns and old rail scrapyards along the trail’s length.

Along with trails built over old railroad tracks, you can also find more challenging hiking trails out in the state and national forests along the northern part of the state. But wherever you go, you’ll find plenty of wonderful views.

Image via Flickr by Nicholas A. Tonelli

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