The Appalachian Trail is on the bucket list of just about every serious hiker on the East Coast. But of course, taking on the full 2,190+ miles is a massive undertaking for which most of us don’t have the time. Fortunately, the trail has plenty of stretches that make for great day hikes. In the Pennsylvania section of the Appalachian Trail, there are hikes of all lengths and difficulty levels, so hikers of all experience levels can find something to their liking. Here are some of the best day hikes in the Pennsylvania portion of the trail.
1. Mount Minsi
The Mount Minsi Loop via the Appalachian Trail offers some of the most spectacular natural views in Pennsylvania, which are highlighted by a spectacular panoramic view of the Delaware Water Gap. While Mt. Tammany may reach high elevations, the views of the Mount Minsi Loop are every bit as impressive. This trail is also often less crowded than Mt. Tammany.
With an elevation gain of 1,060 feet, the 2-mile hike culminates at the summit of Mount Minsi. On the way to the top, you’ll need to hop across rocks to cross several small streams. Even if the water is high, this is a relatively easy cross. At about the 1-mile mark, you’ll hear rushing water that leads to Eureka Creek, which is the largest stream on the trail.
The summit offers expansive views of Mt. Tammany in New Jersey on the left and Pennsylvania’s Mount Minsi on the right, along with the Delaware River cutting through the Gap.
2. White Rocks Trail
One of the most beautiful hikes in the Cumberland Valley’s South Mountain region, the White Rocks Trail is a 3-mile out-and-back trail that takes about an hour and 20 minutes to complete. It is flanked by large rocks that work well for bouldering, climbing, and repelling.
As the trail approaches the summit, more and more rocks appear. Hikers have the chance to do some “rock scrambling,” climbing up boulders using their hands and feet.
The base of the trail lies at Kuhn Road and intersects with the Appalachian Trail south of Center Pont Knob on South Mountain. Upon reaching the top, hikers can take in a stunning view of the Cumberland Valley.
3. Hosack Run Loop
Popular for birding, hiking, and running, the Hosack Run Loop is a moderately challenging 5.3-mile trail near Fayetteville that takes about two and a half hours to finish. It winds through the woods over varied terrain with an overall elevation gain of about 915 feet.
The best hiking time is April through September. During autumn, the falling leaves accumulate in thick layers on the trails and can hide rocks. And in the winter, snow makes the trails slippery.
4. Hawk Rock Loop
This 2.2-mile moderately challenging hike near Duncannon takes about an hour and a half on average. Like many of Pennsylvania’s other hiking trails, the Hawk Rock Loop winds through wooded areas, which makes it popular with both hikers and bird watchers. The surrounding forest also makes this trail especially pretty during the fall foliage.
The out-and-back trail has an elevation gain of about 700 feet, and there are several large rocks along the way, making it difficult at points. But the trail is easy to follow, thanks to white blaze postings that lead to the end.
Those who navigate the challenging hike are rewarded with a sweeping view of the town of Duncannon and the Susquehanna River from Hawk Rock Overlook, a large rock extending from the mountain. This is one of the most famous Appalachian Trail views.
5. Peters Mountain Ridge
Moderately challenging, this 4.2-mile loop trail near Halifax takes an average of about two and a half hours to complete. Backpackers, bird watchers, and hikers all frequent this trail, so you will most likely see a fair number of other people if you go during the peak season. Open year-round, the trail makes for a great hike no matter the season, so you can dodge the crowds if you visit in the late fall or winter.
Starting near railroad tracks, the trail gets steep pretty quickly, eventually offering gorgeous views of the Susquehanna River before flattening out, then steepening again near the edge of the mountain. There are a few switchbacks and several more views on the way to the top.
6. Kimmel View and Fisher Lookout
Located near Pine Grove, this 4-mile out-and-back trail is moderately challenging and can be finished in about an hour and 40 minutes on average. Frequented by hikers and runners, it is a good hike year-round. You’ll be treated to three overlooks within the first mile, and the Fisher Lookout offers panoramic views of the surrounding woods, which are especially beautiful in autumn.
