Nestled within the heart of Pennsylvania’s Grand Canyon, aka Pine Creek Gorge, Leonard Harrison State Park is a popular destination for nature lovers.
Named after Leonard Harrison, an early settler who operated a small farm within the park’s land, it is notable for presenting stunning views of the canyon. They include overlooks that showcase the pristine and rugged terrain and the winding Pine Creek below.
Visitors to this PA State Park can enjoy a wide variety of activities, including hiking, picnicking, bird watching, and hunting. There are also several picnic areas scattered throughout the park, offering a peaceful and scenic spot to indulge in an al fresco meal with family and friends.
For those looking to spend the night, the park’s campground also provides a tranquil setting to enjoy the beauty of the surrounding wilderness. So if you are looking to escape the frenzy of your working life for a while, this is a terrific place to come.
Activities
The park offers visitors several ways to immerse themselves within its wonderful landscape.
Outlined below is an overview of some of the main activities you can engage in during your day trip or longer visit there.
Fishing at Leonard Harrison State Park
As it is situated on the east rim of Pine Creek Gorge, the park offers excellent opportunities for fishing.
Home to a variety of fish species such as trout, bass, walleye, and catfish, the creek is a popular spot for anglers of all levels.
Visitors can easily access it through several trails, where they can then fish from the shore or wade into the water to cast a line.
Fishing licenses are required for anyone aged 16 and older who wishes to fish in Pennsylvania, and can be easily obtained online or at local sporting goods stores.
Hiking at Leonard Harrison State Park
One of the most popular activities at the park is hiking.
Throughout the park there are several miles of trails that offer stunning views of the Pennsylvania Grand Canyon.
The Turkey Path Trail, is a steep and challenging trail, that is a favorite among experienced hikers, offering a breathtaking view of the Pine Creek Gorge. The Overlook Trail, is another moderate hike that leads to several scenic overlooks and is a great option for families with children.
Similarly, the Golden Eagle Trail, located just outside the park, is considered one of the best hiking trails in the eastern United States, with a challenging terrain and spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
While hiking, it is strongly recommended you wear a hat and a good pair of hiking boots. You should also apply plenty of sunscreen and mosquito spray and bring a lot of water with you.
In addition to the stunning natural beauty of the trails, hikers can also learn about the park’s unique geology and ecology through informative signs and educational programs.
Picnicking at Leonard Harrison State Park
Picnicking at Leonard Harrison State Park is an excellent way to take in the natural beauty of the area while enjoying a fun and relaxing day outdoors.
Within the park there is a lovely scenic picnic area with picnic tables, charcoal grills, and drinking water for visitors to use. The picnic area is situated on the east rim of the canyon, providing spectacular views of the Pennsylvania Grand Canyon. It is surrounded by lush greenery and there is ample space for children to run around in.
If you do indulge in a picnic at the park be considerate enough to dispose of your trash responsibly. Also be aware that the consumption of alcohol is strictly prohibited.
Hunting at Leonard Harrison State Park
For those who enjoy hunting, Leonard Harrison State Park provides an opportunity to experience the breathtaking beauty of the area, during designated seasons, while engaging in this traditional outdoor activity.
The park offers a variety of game species including white-tailed deer, black bear, wild turkey, and small game such as squirrel and rabbit.
Hunters must possess a valid Pennsylvania hunting license and comply with all state game laws and park rules and regulations. Firearms, for instance, are prohibited in some areas of the park. They include within 150 yards of any building, camping area, or picnic area, and in certain areas marked with signs.
It is recommended that hunters wear appropriate clothing and gear for the season and terrain, and be familiar with the park’s boundaries and designated hunting areas.
Pets
Pets are welcome in Leonard Harrison State Park, but they must be kept on a leash and under the owner’s control at all times.
It is important to note that the park has specific areas where pets are not permitted, including most buildings. Owners are also not permitted to leave their pets unattended for more than half an hour at a time.
Additionally, visitors are encouraged to keep their pets away from wildlife in the park.
For a full rundown of the park’s pet policy it is worth contacting the staff at the main office.
Camping
The park has a small campground that is open from mid-April until the end of October.
Here you will find a selection of sites, some of which are rustic and others have hook-ups for electricity. Each of them comes with its own picnic tables and fire rings.
Amenities at this campground include flush toilets, warm showers and a sanitary dump station.
If you intend to visit the park at other times of the year when the campground is not open, you will find plenty of camping or hotel accommodation in the surrounding towns and areas.
Park Location
Leonard Harrison State Park
4797 PA-660
Wellsboro, PA 16901
Phone: 570.724.3061
Map
Video
Here is a short YouTube video showcasing several attractions at Leonard Harrison State Park:
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