Explore the Allegheny National Forest Region | Trails, Biking & Outdoor Adventure
Explore the Allegheny National Forest Region | Trails, Biking & Outdoor Adventure
From world-class mountain biking and scenic rail trails to iconic overlooks and forest escapes, the ANF region offers the perfect outdoor getaway close to home
Ignite Your Path: The Ultimate Trail Therapy Detour
Sometimes the most profound travel experiences aren’t found at the end of a long-haul flight, but by simply heading toward the horizon. For those looking for a change of pace, the Allegheny National Forest (ANF) Region is the ultimate detour destination.
Tucked away in the quiet spaces just south of the NY border, you’ll find 514,000 acres of radical natural beauty and world-class recreation. Whether you are seeking "Trail Therapy" or a stand-in-the-clouds adventure, the path is already laid out for you.
Biking the Wilds: From Flow Trails to Gilded Age Retreats
For the mountain bike community, the ANF is a site of pilgrimage. While it sits just outside the McKean County line, Jakes Rocks is a mandatory stop for anyone serious about two wheels. This world-class system was built for "flow," using natural rock formations to create an emerald-toned roller coaster experience.
If your style is more about endurance, the Knox and Kane Rail Trail is making history this summer. A massive milestone arrives as trail sections connect to offer a 30-mile continuous rail trail ride from the town of Kane, PA, all the way to Kinzua Bridge State Park.
Stay and Hop on the Trail: To truly experience this, make Kane Manor your home base. Recently recognized by Newsweek Magazine as the #4 Best Historic Bed and Breakfast in the country, this Gilded Age estate offers a direct connection to the heritage of the region’s founding families. From the manor, you can hop directly onto the Knox and Kane Rail Trail, turning a simple ride into a weekend-long retreat.
Kinzua Valley: The Art of the Pedal and the Pint
For a different flavor of the forest, explore the Kinzua Valley Trail system. This hidden gem of crushed limestone follows the meandering Kinzua Creek from the Redbridge Campground through the historic village of Westline. It is the perfect route for those who want to experience the quiet majesty of the woods on a level path.
The Post-Ride Reward: After a hard pedal through the deep woods, there is only one way to end the day: a stop at the Westline Inn. Known for providing a quintessential ANF meal and a legendary atmosphere, it’s the place to park your bike and grab a cold beer. Whether you’re on the deck or soaking in the rustic charm inside, the Westline Inn is the heartbeat of the valley.
Marilla Bridges and the Kinzua Legend
If you are looking for maximum beauty with minimum effort, the Marilla Bridges Trail is non-negotiable. Widely considered the most scenic one-mile loop in all of Pennsylvania, this trail circumnavigates the Marilla Reservoir just outside Bradford. With iconic wooden bridges and stunning water reflections, it’s a concentrated dose of natural beauty.
Of course, no visit is complete without the "Eighth Wonder of the World." The Kinzua Skywalk is undergoing a restoration project to ensure it stands for another century, but travelers have a special window this year: the Skywalk will be open to foot traffic specifically from September 1 through October 31, 2026. While you wait for the view, the Kinzua Bridge State Park Visitor Center remains open daily from 8:00am-6:00pm, offering deep dives into the engineering marvels of the gorge.
Ignite Your Path
We live in a destination others only dream of visiting. With 600 miles to hike, bike, and reel, the ANF region invites you to step off the beaten path. As we celebrate America 250, there has never been a better time to ignite your path and rediscover the world-class adventure waiting just a short drive away.
Call 800-473-9370 or visit PATrailCentral.com to download your Free Adventure Guide today.