Leonard Harrison State Park
Leonard Harrison State Park sits on the east rim of Pine Creek Gorge, known as Pennsylvania's Grand Canyon. This 585-acre park offers breathtaking views of the 800-foot deep, 4,000-foot wide canyon. The park's famous Turkey Path Trail descends 750 feet to Pine Creek, passing spectacular waterfalls along Little Fourmile Run. Visitors enjoy scenic overlooks, picnic areas, and a modern visitor center with exhibits about the canyon's geology and history. The park serves as a gateway to the 62-mile Pine Creek Rail Trail and offers connections to extensive hiking in the surrounding Tioga State Forest.
Free
Visiting with Dogs
Leashed dogs welcome; overlook and Turkey Path accessible. Turkey Path steep—consider fitness; supervise near cliffs; avoid icy trails; water available.
Visitor Tips & Reviews
What Visitors Say
Stunning panoramic canyon views; Turkey Path offers waterfalls but challenging return; sunrise/sunset photography, family-friendly overlooks, busy fall foliage, visit Colton Point.
Tips from Visitors
- Wear sturdy hiking boots for Turkey Path - sneakers and sandals can lead to accidents on steep, rocky terrain
- Turkey Path is a 2-mile round trip with 800-foot elevation change - prepare for a challenging climb back up
- Visit waterfalls in spring for best water flow - they can be minimal in summer and fall
- Main overlook offers stunning sunset views - bring a camera
- Trails close December-April due to snow and ice - check conditions before visiting in winter
- Arrive early on fall foliage weekends - parking fills quickly
Amenities
Nearby Attractions
Explore these attractions near Leonard Harrison State Park:
- Pine Creek Rail Trail62-mile rail-trail through the canyon, one of Pennsylvania's most scenic bike paths2 miles away
- Colton Point State ParkOpposite rim of Pine Creek Gorge offering different canyon perspectives and rustic CCC-era facilities5 miles away
- Wellsboro Historic DistrictCharming Victorian town with gas-lit streets, shops, and restaurants10 miles away
Things to Do at Leonard Harrison State Park
Hiking Trails
Turkey Path Trail
StrenuousFamous trail descending 750 feet from rim to Pine Creek, passing numerous waterfalls on Little Fourmile Run. Very steep with rocky, rooted terrain. Round trip requires difficult 800-foot climb back to rim.
Overlook Trail
ModerateLoop to Otter View overlook looking south. Passes CCC-era features including red pine plantation and old incinerator. Moderate difficulty with some elevation change.
Directions
Leonard Harrison State Park is located 10 miles west of Wellsboro at the western terminus of PA Route 660. From Wellsboro, follow PA Route 660 west for approximately 10 miles to the park. The road ends at the park. From the west, access via Colton Point State Park on the opposite rim requires a 37-mile drive around the canyon. GPS users should use: 4797 PA Route 660, Wellsboro, PA 16901. Note: Trails may close seasonally due to snow and ice (December-April).
