Pennsylvania’s vast expanse of green in the middle presents endless opportunities for outdoor adventure. Between Allentown and Erie lies the remote Susquehannock State Forest, two and a half hours away from Scranton. The outdoor destination’s mountain views, camping, and fishing provide an ideal weekend getaway for travelers weary of civilization’s bright lights and urban noise.
The great irony lies in the state forest’s near-total decimation. The original forest was nearly entirely removed in the 19th and 20th centuries by extensive logging, while forest fires further scarred the landscape. Yet a renewal occurred, with hardwoods taking the place of the original white pines and hemlocks. The rejuvenated 265,000-acre remote forest offers a thick green canopy for outdoor adventure. “Great place for many things, ATV, snowmobile, hiking, and driving,” one local wrote in a review on Google. “Plenty of things to do in a beautiful place with some amazing views.”
Hikers, ATV-ers, photographers, bikers, campers, or weekenders can all find something on the forest’s long list of potential fun, making the state forest a multi-day excursion, worthy of a weekend away or more.
Take in the views, then go fishing
The Susquehannock State Forest’s 170 miles of roads lead to various mountain views — 16 vistas in total — worthy of binoculars and a moment of appreciation. Visitors can enjoy the views on an ATV, on horseback, or on a snowmobile. The sources of the Susquehanna and Allegheny Rivers reside within the forest, part of the Allegheny Mountains. After checking out the sweeping views, take a gander at the waters…