Ready for a scenic adventure? Pennsylvania offers an array of picturesque road trips that showcase its stunning natural landscapes and rich history. From the lush hills of the Brandywine Valley to the wildlife-laden Elk Scenic Drive, this state is a treasure trove for explorers behind the wheel.
Buckle up for a series of routes that promise breathtaking views and unforgettable experiences.
On the Road in Pennsylvania: Safety First
First things first: safety. When setting out on a Pennsylvania road trip, staying safe is paramount. Keep these things in mind for a secure journey:
- Weather Awareness. PA weather can be fickle. So, check forecasts and pack accordingly.
- Vehicle Readiness. Ensure your car’s maintenance is up-to-date, especially brakes and tires.
- Wildlife Caution. Particularly on rural drives like the Elk Scenic Drive, watch for animals crossing.
Of course, you should also follow the usual rules of the road to stay safe, such as not driving when distracted or tired, staying a safe distance behind other vehicles, and indicating correctly.
Such things may be part of your daily driving routine – but you need to be extra alert and focused when driving on unfamiliar roads. The last thing you want is to be involved in a car crash.
Though, if you do find yourself involved in an accident, remember to stay calm, call for assistance, get witness details, document the scene, obtain a copy of your car accident report from Pennsylvania State Police, and get yourself checked out by a healthcare professional as soon as possible.
Okay – lecture over. Let’s look at four stunning road trips you could enjoy.
1. Elk Scenic Drive
Embark on the Elk Scenic Drive, a 127-mile loop that invites you to discover Pennsylvania’s untapped wilderness. This is your front-row seat to nature’s grandeur.
The drive is named for its star attractions – majestic elks in their natural setting. But as you journey through dense forests and past quiet meadows, you could also spot deer, black bears, and an array of bird species.
Highlights along the way:
- Encounter majestic elks in their natural habitat at Benezette, where the Elk Country Visitor Center offers educational exhibits and viewing areas for optimal wildlife observation.
- Explore the scenic beauty of Sinnemahoning State Park, nestled along the drive, with its picturesque landscapes, hiking trails, and opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife spotting.
- Discover the stunning vistas of the Quehanna Wild Area, a rugged and remote expanse of forest known for its pristine beauty, diverse ecosystems, and tranquil ambiance, making it a perfect stop for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike.
Watch this video to get a glimpse:
2. PA Route 6
Route 6 is a road that meanders through the wild heart of Pennsylvania, where each curve unfolds a new vista and every town holds a story.
Highlights along the way include:
- Kinzua Bridge Skywalk. Step onto this awe-inspiring structure and peer into the depths of Kinzua Gorge.
- PA Grand Canyon. Trails edge along dramatic cliffs, granting views that rival any painting.
- Wellsboro. A quaint and historic mountain town reminding you of slower times.
National Geographic didn’t dub PA Route 6 one of America’s most scenic drives without merit. It’s an adventure that combines natural grandeur with cultural richness, making it an essential journey for those seeking beauty both by the roadside and beyond.
Watch this video to get a glimpse:
3. Brandywine Valley Byway
This is definitely one of my favorite Pennsylvania Road Trips. Take a leisurely drive down the Brandywine Valley Byway and let the 38-mile loop unfold landscapes that are as rich in history as they are in beauty.
You’ll come across:
- Historic River Towns. Chadds Ford and Kennett Square offer narratives set in brick and cobblestone.
- Amish Farmlands. Witness a simpler life among the rolling hills and well-tended pastures.
- Longwood Gardens. Explore an oasis of over 11,000 plant species set in meticulously crafted gardens.
As each mile passes, it’s like turning a page in a storybook where nature and heritage seamlessly blend.
Watch this video to get a glimpse of the Amish communities on the trip:
4. The Gettysburg Loop
The Gettysburg Loop isn’t just a journey through rolling hills and lush landscapes; it’s a passage through time along a 150-mile circuit steeped in Civil War history.
Here’s what awaits along the way:
- Gettysburg National Military Park – self-guided tour reveals pivotal battlegrounds and monuments.
- The Iconic Speech Site – the Gettysburg National Cemetery, where Lincoln echoed the ideals of unity.
- Charming Downtown – where history blends with lively streets lined with shops and eateries.
As you drive, take in the breathtaking views that serve as a backdrop to America’s past. Orchards and wineries dot the land, inviting travelers to explore deeper beyond the echoes of history.
Watch this to learn more:
To Conclude…
Pennsylvania’s scenic road trips offer not only breathtaking views but also rich historical experiences, making them perfect for adventurous travelers. However, embarking on these journeys requires careful preparation and adherence to safety measures to ensure a smooth and secure trip. From weather awareness to vehicle readiness and wildlife caution, prioritizing safety is essential for a memorable and worry-free exploration of Pennsylvania’s natural wonders.
Sarah Knapp is a Brooklyn based entrepreneur whose love for the outdoors and community building led her to the October 2013 creation of OutdoorFest. She has a BA in History, is a Wilderness First Responder and a NY state hiking, camp and boating guide. Her proudest achievement to date is reading the Aeneid in Latin. 
Allison was one of our first top writers and Chief Editor but is no longer working with offMetro. Allison is a native New Yorker, who has lived in Rome, Tuscany, Melbourne, Toronto and Los Angeles. She frequently contributed travel pieces to Family Travel Forum, using her own children as guinea pigs as they travel the globe. She never missed a chance to sample local delicacies, as her love for travel goes hand-in-hand with her love for food and wine. 
Josh Laskin is a freelance travel writer and photographer based in the White Mountains of New Hampshire. When he is not at work or on the road, you can find him in the mountains snowboarding, climbing, hiking, fly fishing, mountain biking, and eating bagel bites.
Annie is a travel writer, environmentalist, and surfer based in Venice, CA. She heads up our West Coast team, keeps our grammatical errors in check, and makes sure our California writers always have a plan for their next adventure. Follow Annie’s travels @annelisemcb.
Carly Pifer is a freelance writer who has been known to follow whims inspired by romantic movie scenes or colorful street style shots to India, Japan, Tunisia and Argentina. After stints living in Seoul, Boston, Paris and Los Angeles, writing and searching for something intangible, she landed somewhat steadily in Brooklyn and has begun to find inspiration in her more immediate surroundings. 
Kate E. O’Hara is a New York based freelance writer and photographer who loves all things food—especially the people who make it and market it. Her writing aims to capture the essence of the food experience; the stories that go well beyond a plate of ingredients. In addition to her love of food, Kate is also known to have a hankering for red wine and craft beer. You can also find Kate on Instagram