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Breathtaking scenery attracts visitors to these two state parks, located on opposite sides of the Pennsylvania Grand Canyon.
Spectacular overlooks offer views of the tree-covered canyon and the valley 800 feet below. Fall, when the trees are splashed with reds, purples and golds, is an especially beautiful time to see this scenic and geologic wonder.
The canyon, which stretches 55 miles, was formed when melting glaciers created a natural dam of gravel, sand and clay, forcing Pine Creek to reverse its flow. A 12-mile stretch of Pine Creek Gorge, running through both parks, is a National Natural Landmark.
Colton Point, on the western rim, covers 368 acres just five miles south of U.S. Route 6 in Ansonia. Leonard Harrison has 585 acres and sits on the eastern rim of the canyon off Route 660, 10 miles from Wellsboro.
Gorgeous scenery rewards hikers. Colton Point's four miles of trails include the Turkey Path, which descends to the canyon floor.
Parts of the Turkey Trail on the Leonard Harrison side have observation decks, hand rails and steps.
Leonard Harrison, with three miles of trails, also boasts one path leading by a waterfall and another .6-mile loop trail with a scenic vista.
Colton Point serves as the trailhead for an almost limitless number of hikes outside the park, including the 30-mile West Rim Trail.
A 40-mile rails-to-trails path for hikers and bicyclists is on the canyon floor. Private concessions offer covered wagon and trail rides in the canyon. Canoeists and rafters ride the Pine Creek, putting in at Ansonia.
The creek yields trout, smallmouth bass and panfish. There are also several other trout streams.
Both parks have seasonal campgrounds. A visitor center and interpretive walks and programs are offered at Leonard Harrison from June to October.
Outdoor Activities |
