To me, the best kind of secret is a travel-related one, be it a hole-in-the-wall restaurant that locals love; a hidden beach, away from the crowds; and best of all, a destination that hasn’t yet been discovered.
While everyone has heard of the Grand Canyon, there are several, smaller “grand canyons” scattered throughout the Eastern United States, namely in Maine, New York, and Pennsylvania. While these respective canyons may lack red rocks, mule tours, and glass-bottom walkways, they still provide spectacular heights, wildlife, and recreational possibilities—all without the crowds you’ll find in Arizona. Check out these gorges while they’re still a secret.
Pine Creek Gorge, Tioga State Forest, Pennsylvania
My family has lived in central Pennsylvania for sixteen years, and I had never heard of Pine Creek Gorge, “The Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania,” until recently. My embarrassment doubled when I learned the gorge starts just a few towns away from my parents’ home.
The entire canyon is nearly fifty miles long, with twelve miles of protected lands tucked inside Tioga State Forest, one of Pennsylvania’s “old growth” woods. Access to the gorge is through two state parks, Leonard Harrison on the eastern rim or Colton Point on the western side. Both parks offer panoramic views from heights approximately 800 feet up, accessible from hiking trails, mountain biking, or even on horseback.
“If [you] like the outdoors, you’ll love this place,” says Tim Morey, an environmental education specialist for the Pennsylvania WILDS Recreation Team. “Vistas are king here, but especially [so] when trimmed in mountain laurel, which typically blooms in late June. This area has always been known for its eastern black bear, white-tailed deer, and wild turkey populations. Once-scarce wildlife such as the river otter, fisher, osprey, and even the bald eagle have [now] returned. While traveling along the river corridor, one might also see a variety of birdlife including belted kingfisher, common merganser, cliff swallows, or cedar waxwings that inhabit the Riparian Corridor. A wide variety of warblers can be sighted (or at least heard) for those more in tune to birding.”
There are several trails open for hikers of all experience and fitness levels. Morey recommends the Pine Creek Trail for those wanting less-strenuous hikes, as its path is wide and nearly level, as well as the West Rim Trail. “[West Rim] is good for beginners, and still rewarding for more advanced hikers with its abundant vistas along the Gorge.”
“I should mention one of the easiest, yet amazing vista hikes anywhere,” continued Morey. “The Barbour Rock Trail starts along the road to Colton Point State Park, four miles south of Route 6, and connects with the West Rim Trail. It’s one of the very best overlooks in the entire Gorge. All this and the hike is only one mile round trip on an easy to follow and nearly level path—you drive to the top.
“If that’s not challenging enough, head further south in the Gorge to the Golden Eagle Trail—a nine-mile very strenuous day hike highlighting the Wolf Run Wild Area, [featuring] interesting rock outcrops and yet more spectacular views.” Beyond hiking, there’s also mountain biking, horseback riding, camping, and fishing.
Naturally, many like to visit the Gorge in autumn, when both sides of the canyon pop with the blazing colors of fall. “This is one of the rare times when you might find the area ‘crowded’ by some standards,” explains Morey. However, visiting during the week avoids the crowds entirely.
Where to Stay: La Belle Auberge Inn, Wellsboro; rates from $109/night, double occupancy, including full breakfast.
Letchworth State Park, New York
More than sixty miles of trails to explore by foot, bike, or horseback; hot air balloon rides over three waterfalls; and whitewater rafting along the Genessee River, flanked by canyon walls stretching 600 feet up. Any of these activities can be had with a visit to New York’s Letchworth State Park, also known as the “Grand Canyon of the East.”
