Golf and Explore Allegheny National Forest, PA
Golf and Explore Allegheny National Forest, PA
Golf, Hike, and Explore the Allegheny National Forest.Outdoor Adventures await in McKean County, PA
Nestled in the heart of McKean County, Pennsylvania, just a short drive from New York, the Allegheny National Forest (ANF) region offers a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Spanning over half a million acres, this expansive natural playground invites visitors to immerse themselves in a diverse range of recreational activities - from hiking and biking to paddling serene waters and, of course, enjoying a round of golf amidst breathtaking scenery.
A GOLFER’S PARADISE
Golf in McKean County is more than just a game - it’s a scenic adventure where the rough isn't always rough, the fairways are friendly, and the hazards occasionally include deer. Whether you're a scratch golfer or someone who counts mulligans as strokes of good fortune, the region’s golf courses promise memorable moments and maybe even a few laughs.
Pine Acres Golf & RV Resort
814-362-2005, PineAcresCC.com
Perched atop the mountains of northwestern Pennsylvania, Pine Acres is an 18-hole championship course open to the public. The course challenges golfers with tight, tree-lined fairways and quick, sloping greens - so yes, it's okay to blame the terrain. With new local ownership focused on creating a four-season destination, players can enjoy improved course conditions, a welcoming clubhouse, and 23 new RV sites for a stellar “stay and play” experience. Bonus: You can now tell people you slept 200 yards from where you nearly hit that hole-in-one.
Kane Country Club
814-837-9491, KaneCountryClub.com
Established in 1912, Kane Country Club is a semi-private, 18-hole course surrounded by the scenic hills of the Allegheny National Forest. Its par-70 layout blends elevation changes, pristine fairways, and beautiful vistas. In 2025, the club debuts its Junior Golf Program (June 17th-July 22nd), proving it's never too early to learn how to slice with style. After your round, relax at the clubhouse and retell that birdie story - no matter how many strokes it actually took.
Pennhills Club & AirBnB
814-368-6159, PennHillsClub.com
A private, professional 18-hole course, the Pennhills Club delivers championship-level golf with exclusive amenities like a pool, fine dining, and year-round events. Stay & Play packages are available through local lodging partners, so you can swing away by day and unwind in luxury at night. It’s the perfect setup - especially if your game is better from the patio than the tee box.
TRAIL CENTRAL: A NATURE LOVER’S PARADISE
McKean County, known as Trail Central, offers a sprawling trail network for hikers and explorers. Bradford, the largest town in the county, is home base for a mix of casual walks and challenging hikes through the Allegheny National Forest’s lush, rolling terrain.
Marilla Bridges Trail System
Featuring one of Pennsylvania’s most scenic one-mile loops, the trail around the Marilla Reservoir is a must-do. Surrounded by forest and accented with charming wooden bridges and viewing points, it’s a peaceful and photogenic escape that hikers of all ages and abilities will appreciate. More adventurous options like the Marilla Springs, Marilla Rocks, and Bullis Hollow trails branch out from the main loop for longer treks.
Timberdoodle Flats Interpretive Trail
Located just outside Bradford, this family-friendly trail features two loops totaling 1.5 miles and is ideal for birdwatchers, casual hikers, and kids. The Bluebird Trail is wheelchair accessible and features interpretive signs along the way.
Rimrock Overlook & Trail
A short 1.3-mile out-and-back trail connects the dramatic Rimrock Overlook to the Kinzua Beach Recreation Area. With picnic tables and free parking at both ends, this easy-to-moderate hike features one of the region’s best vantage points over the Allegheny Reservoir.
KINZUA SKY WALK: A MUST-SEE ATTRACTION
Voted the #1 State Park in Pennsylvania and one of the world’s top skywalks, the Kinzua Sky Walk stretches 624 feet into the Kinzua Gorge and soars 225 feet above the valley floor. With a partial glass floor, it’s not for the faint of heart - but the panoramic views are well worth it.
The park’s visitor center includes interpretive displays telling the story of the original Kinzua Viaduct and the 2003 tornado that collapsed part of it. The dog-friendly park also consists of three trails of varying difficulty for hikers.
As a reminder, the Skywalk remains CLOSED to foot traffic. However, the Visitor Center, Skywalk overlook, trails not directly below the Skywalk, PA Wilds Conservation shop and playground all remain OPEN during the preservation and restoration project. Skywalk will open August 8-October 31, 2025 in time for the fantastic fall foliage season.
YOUR NEXT ADVENTURE AWAITS
Water Adventures
The 12,000-acre Allegheny Reservoir, created by the Kinzua Dam, is a magnet for water lovers. Kinzua Beach is a summertime favorite with sandy shores and clear waters perfect for swimming and picnicking. Kayakers, canoers, and anglers can spend a full day paddling or casting for bass, walleye, and trout in a tranquil setting surrounded by forested hills.
Camping and Wildlife Exploration
Whether you're in a tent, RV, or cabin, McKean County is full of quiet corners to camp and connect with nature. Recreation areas like Willow Bay, Twin Lakes, and Red Bridge provide a mix of primitive and developed camping options. Don’t be surprised if your neighbors include a family of deer or a curious fox. The area is also home to wild turkeys, black bears, and countless bird species, making it ideal for wildlife photographers and quiet nature lovers alike.
Plan Your Paradise Stay
To make the most of your visit, the Allegheny National Forest Adventure Guide & Map includes listings for restaurants, accommodations, wineries, breweries, distilleries, trails, fishing spots, and more. View or download the guide at VisitANF.com, or request a free copy by calling 800-473-9370 or emailing info@visitANF.com.
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