View of Pine Creek Gorge

Hike the difficult 29.9-mile West Rim Trail in Tioga State Forest, gaining 4308 feet of elevation with views of Pine Creek Gorge.

This easy loop trail offers one of the most spectacular and accessible views of the Pennsylvania Grand Canyon, the Pine Creek Gorge. You'll wander through a lovely hardwood forest before emerging at Barbour Rock, where the canyon opens up dramatically, showcasing Pine Creek nearly 850 feet below. The route is a quick 1.2 miles (1.9 km) with a gentle 182 feet (55 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 34 minutes to complete.

Access is straightforward from the Barbour Rock Parking Area. The main path is wide, smooth, and crushed stone, making it handicapped accessible; if you're using a wheelchair, pneumatic tires are recommended. For the best experience, consider visiting at sunrise to catch the canyon bathed in golden light.

What makes this trail a standout is its combination of ease and payoff, providing one of the best and most easily accessible viewpoints of the region. While short, it also connects to the West Rim Trail and Bear Run Trail, offering options for moderately difficult extensions if you wish to explore further.