Upstate PA

Outdoor Adventures

Upstate PA is where mountain ridges, forested valleys, and winding backroads come together to create one of the most scenic outdoor playgrounds in the state. Travelers come here for weekend road trips, hiking, and leaf peeping routes that feel both peaceful and wild. Trails weave through state forests, quiet overlooks, and rugged terrain, making this region a natural fit for anyone planning a Pennsylvania road trip built around fresh air and wide-open spaces.

Lakes and Waterfalls

Water shapes the Upstate PA experience, from high-country lakes to some of the most iconic waterfalls in Pennsylvania. Spend a day exploring the cascading trails of Ricketts Glen State Park, home to more than 20 named waterfalls and one of the region’s most popular hiking destinations. Enjoy the 3.5-mile walking trail at Lake Scranton. For a classic lake escape, head to Harveys Lake, a deep glacial lake perfect for boating, swimming, and summer sunsets.

Small Towns to Explore

Upstate PA is filled with some of the best small towns in Pennsylvania, places where historic streets, local shops, and mountain charm set the tone. Wander the quiet beauty of Eagles Mere, known for its lake, museum, and timeless resort-town feel. Continue to Tunkhannock, a welcoming community along the Susquehanna River with access to the region’s scenic countryside. These towns make perfect bases for exploring Pennsylvania’s lakes, waterfalls, and back roads.

Scenic Drives

This region in northern PA is made for slow, scenic drives. Follow rolling farmland and river valleys that burst with color during the fall. Routes near the Tunkhannock Viaduct offer sweeping views of one of the state’s most impressive engineering landmarks, while neighboring byways connect you to trailheads, picnic spots, and photo-worthy overlooks.

Seasonal Events

Throughout the year, Upstate PA hosts festivals and outdoor celebrations that highlight local culture. Chasing fall foliage across Pennsylvania is a popular pastime, and opportunities for sweeping views of autumn’s finest displays are plentiful. From summer lake events to harvest weekends and leaf peeping finds, the region’s seasonal rhythm makes every visit feel different — and worth returning to.

Cities in the region: Dushore, Hazleton, New Ringgold, Nicholson, Scranton, Towanda, Troy, Tunkhannock, Wilkes-Barre