Outdoor Adventure Comes To Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania is seeing an influx of interest from people seeking outdoor adventure. The state is becoming so popular that the government is looking for ways to facilitate the tourist boom, encouraging adventurers to arrive in droves.
The state is becoming popular because of its extensive natural environment and numerous opportunities for outdoor recreation. Happy campers are heading to the cool green forests of the north, the rolling hills of the south, and everything in between.
Unlike Moab or Joshua Tree, Pennsylvania is not a one-trick pony. According to the government and local businesses, there’s plenty for people to enjoy here.
Camping
Pennsylvania is becoming a destination for campers thanks to its immense 124 state parks and thousands of camping grounds, welcoming everything from humble tents to articulated luxury multi-story motorcoaches.
The facilities in Pennsylvania are top-notch because of the state’s wealth and proximity to major population centers. There’s more going on here than, say, in Dakota, including glamping and luxury yurt stays for those wanting something a little more comfortable.
The state is also making campers feel more welcome by fielding friendly staff to facilitate trips. Greeters are available at the entrance of the camping ground to direct travelers to pitches and lots, making the experience smoother. There are organized camping trips that go on hikes along local trails in the day and then return to the campsite in the evening for delicious BBQ food, sing-alongs, and campfires.
Stargazing
Another outdoor adventure opportunity in Pennsylvania is stargazing. The state is home to some of the darkest skies in the Eastern United States, making it a popular spot for enjoying glimpses of the Milky Way.
Astronomers and enthusiasts usually head to the state’s Cherry Springs State Park. Authorities designate it a Dark Sky Place, meaning that it has low light pollution and local ordinances prevent the use of excessive lighting at night.
The best time to go is on a clear night. If you can climb any of the local hills, do so. Less atmosphere means a better view of the stars and galaxies out there.
Rail Trails
Pennsylvania is also pushing tourists to visit many of its local rail trails. These tracks were formerly railways but turned into recreational paths in the 20th century when the state no longer required its massive network to transport fossil fuels and mined goods.
The great thing about these rail trails is that they pretty much ignore the terrain, sloping gently upwards and downwards, but never throwing anything too extreme at you. Along the way, you’ll get to enjoy some spectacular engineering and views of the state’s expansive countryside.
The trails are open to everyone and how far you go is pretty much up to you. Public routes span hundreds of miles, making them long enough for even the more intrepid explorers. Explorers use them for family bike rides, hikes, and as a launching point for going deeper into the wilderness.
If you don’t know where the trails start, you can find out more details on the Visit Pennsylvania website. It lists the tracks and where they go.
Kayaking
Pennsylvania is also attracting keen kayakers and boaters from across the nation in greater numbers. That’s because the state has over 86,000 miles of rivers and over 2,000 lakes, making it one of the most exciting freshwater water sports locations in the world.
The state has options for everyone. Instructions and equipment are available for experienced professionals, beginner children, and everyone in between. Punters can choose from various challenges, including Class III-V rapids at the Ohiopyle State Park and the calm waters of Lake Erie.
The goal of these kayaking and boating opportunities is to give people the opportunity to explore every corner of the state. Rivers, streams, and navigable waterways show the area from a different perspective.
Nature Conservation
Pennsylvania is also attracting people to its shores through its various nature conservation and volunteer programs. The state is trying to reinvent itself as a magnet for wildlife and nature lovers, thanks to its park expansion and extensive protection of the local environment.
There are numerous organizations and state agencies looking for people to help them with various conservation projects. These include assisting local species, maintaining footpaths, and reducing erosion.
These projects are helping to make Pennsylvania better for wildlife and more accessible for people.
Golfing
Golf is another outdoor option drawing the crowds to the state. Pennsylvania is home to some of the most beautiful and prestigious courses in the country, encouraging more people to take up the sport.
As you might expect, local developers build courses to complement the environment. The natural fairways and water obstacles at many destinations are a reminder that Pennsylvania is a rural place outside Philadelphia.
Geocaching And Orienteering
Enthusiasts are also flocking to Pennsylvania for its geocaching and orienteering opportunities. The abundance of parks and forests makes it a haven for finding hidden treasures left by others. The state also organizes various orienteering challenges and races. Participants must follow instructions quickly to find clues that will eventually lead them to a prize.
Wildlife Watching
Another outdoor pastime is wildlife watching. The state is home to diverse wildlife, including rare birds.
Most enthusiasts start their tip by heading to the Pennsylvania Game Commission’s Wildlife Center. The venue provides copious information on local species and their history of interactions with humans.
Adventurers also head to the Hawk Mountain Sanctuary. This location is one of the best places in the country for bird watching. Every year thousands of people flock to the location with their binoculars and pencil in hand.
Rock Climbing
Finally, Pennsylvania is home to some of the most spectacular rock-climbing destinations in the eastern part of the country. It also has instructors galore for people who haven’t been before.
Most of the rock climbing happens at Haycock Mountain, Shawangunks, and Birdsboro. These locations offer varying challenges and natural settings to practice functional climbing skills.
There are also numerous indoor climbing gyms across the state to practice skills first.
