The Grand Canyon

The Pine Creek Gorge, or the Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania, as it is more notably called, is truly a remarkable place. The gorge’s history dates back to the ice age when retreating glaciers deposited a huge pile of silty moraine here. Pine Creek’s flow originally traveled northeast but the glacier’s dam sent the water south, carving out the Pine Creek Gorge. The 90-degree right-hand bend of Pine Creek at Ansonia is evidence of this theory. The deepest part of the canyon is between the two state parks perched on opposite sides of the canyon’s rim. Leonard Harrison and Colton Point State Parks stand 800 feet above the gorge. The canyons walls are filled with countless spectacular waterfalls that run best in the springtime. With the higher flow of water, the Pine Creek becomes an exciting whitewater rafting, canoe, or kayak trip. Some of Pennsylvania’s most rare and beautiful wildlife can be found in the canyon. A pair of bald eagles continue to nest yearly in the gorge, and otters, successfully reintroduced to Pine Creek, are a welcome sight. Hawks, herons, osprey, wild turkey, and coyotes are just a few of the more common inhabitants here. Highlights: impressive Pine Creek Gorge, rock cliffs, countless waterfalls, incredible wildlife viewing, rare species of Pennsylvania wildlife and plants, spring whitewater boating, rock climbing, ice climbing, scenic vistas, fishing, camping along the canyon rail-trail and at the two state parks on the rim. Tread: beautiful, hardpacked, cinder rail grade.