Cherry Springs State Park
Cherry Springs State Park is home to an International Dark Sky Preserve and some of the best skies for stargazing in the Northeast. I have been twice and am eager for my next trip! Outside of Cherry Springs, there is so much to explore, given its proximity to several state parks and forests.
Lodging:
There are several inns and B&Bs nearby. I recommend Frosty Hollow Bed and Breakfast near Coudersport, but be sure to book in advance. The entire property is lovely, and the breakfasts are to-die-for! I’ve also camped at the Cherry Springs campground, but if spots are unavailable, nearby Lyman Run State Park is a good option.
Stargazing:
If you aren’t staying overnight at the campground, check out the Night Sky Public Viewing area. Bring chairs, blankets, and extra layers. You will also want red light filters for any flashlights or red lights, so you can find your way without ruining your night vision. You are not permitted to use white light on the field. At the campground, small campfires are permitted, but you are encouraged to use red lights and limit white light usage. For serious stargazers with equipment, you can book a spot in advance at the Overnight Astronomy Observation field. Honestly, no matter where you’re staying, you’re going to have incredible views of the night sky in this region.
To learn more about astronomy and the constellations, I HIGHLY recommend Potter County Stargazing Tours with Greg. The tours are on private property near Cherry Springs. It’s more than just knowledge; it’s a meditation on nature and life, with quotes from Carl Sagan included!
Hiking:
If you’ve never been to the PA Grand Canyon/Pine Creek Gorge area, definitely check it out! If you’re into biking, check out the Pine Creek Rail Trail, which runs along the bottom of the gorge.
Leonard Harrison State Park and Colton Point State Park are on the East and West rims of the Pine Creek Gorge. Leonard Harrison has a nice visitors center, and Colton Point is more rustic, but both are worth checking out for the views. I will write a post with more details about the Pine Creek Gorge in the future!
Lyman Run State Park, the Tioga State Forest, and Susquehannock State Forest are also nearby, with varying lengths and difficulty levels.
Frosty Hollow Farmhouse
My Weekend Itinerary:
Day 1:
Hyner Run State Park
Hyner View State Park
Check into Frosty Hollow and get dinner in Coudersport
Potter County Stargazing Tour
Day 2 (Pine Creek Gorge a.k.a Grand Canyon of PA):
Leonard Harrison State Park
Colton Point State Park
Visit Wellsboro and get a late lunch/early dinner
Stop by the Wellsboro Creamery!
Back to Cherry Springs to stargaze
Day 3 (on the way back to Pittsburgh):
Sizerville State Park
Parker Dam State Park
SB Elliot State Park
Visit Punxatawney for dinner; walk around and check out all the groundhogs!
Pine Creek Gorge (from the Barbour Rock Trail)
