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MATPRA is a cohesive unit of regional tourism partners encompassing Delaware, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Washington D.C. and West Virginia.

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Mid-Atlantic Breweries

Greetings MATPRA Media Partners,

MATPRA distributes press releases designed to inspire media coverage of the Mid-Atlantic region. We plan topics months in advance to accommodate longer lead times. If you have suggestions for future topics, we’d love to hear them! Please email ([email protected]).

Explore the Mid-Atlantic through its craft beer scene! Enjoy distinct flavors from makers large and small, pouring everything from crisp lagers to bold ales and rich stouts. A new favorite pour is waiting at one of these standout spots!

MARYLAND


Annapolis and Anne Arundel County (MD)
Annapolis and Anne Arundel County offer a dynamic craft beer scene. In Annapolis, Forward Brewing delivers small-batch creativity in Eastport known for its sustainability practices and support of oyster beds to rehabilitate the Chesapeake Bay. Nearby, Crooked Crab Brewing Co. in Odenton features 16 rotating taps and playful brews like “Crabtain America.” Chesepiooc Real Ale Brewery in Crofton thrives on experimentation and Pherm Brewing in Gambrills blends beer and art, including a special brew you can only find aboard the Schooner Woodwind – “Seas the Bay IPA.” From nano-breweries to taproom hubs, the region pours out flavor and community spirit.
Visit Annapolis


Calvert County (MD)
Discover the craft beer scene in Calvert County this November! From family-owned favorites to small-batch artisanal breweries, the county offers a variety of flavors for every palate. Sip award-winning beers at Mully’s Brewery in Prince Frederick, enjoy artisan brews paired with fresh cuisine at Ruddy Duck Brewery & Grill in Dowell, or relax outdoors at the Southern Maryland Biergarten at Running Hare Vineyard in Prince Frederick. North Beach’s Unauthorized Brewing offers friendly vibes and carefully crafted small-batch beers, while Greenspring Brewing Company brings art, science, and cheer to every pint. Explore local breweries and find your new favorite brew!
Choose Calvert


Hagerstown-Washington County (MD)
Washington County is home to an energetic and growing brewery scene that reflects both local tradition and innovation. From small batch craft breweries to taprooms that pair regional ingredients with experimental brewing techniques, the area offers a diverse beer-lover’s playground. In our Grapes & Grains Guide (available on our website), you’ll find a curated map and descriptions of our breweries, specialty brews, and notes on the local grains or hops they source. The Guide is a great companion whether you’re doing a brewery tour or simply discovering your new favorite brew in Washington County.
Visit Hagerstown-Washington

Photo Credit Scott Cantner


Harford County (MD)
Harford County’s brewery scene is overflowing with local flavor and fun! With eight breweries ranging from microbreweries to three scenic farm breweries; there’s a craft experience for every taste. Each spot offers its own unique vibe, from rustic countryside settings to lively taprooms, all proudly serving locally brewed beers and seasonal specialties. Family-friendly and most known for their welcoming, dog-friendly patios, these breweries are perfect for relaxing afternoons or nights out with friends. Enjoy rotating food trucks, live entertainment, and community events throughout the year as you sip, savor, and explore the vibrant craft beer culture of Harford County.
Hello Harford

Photo Credit Jodi Marschhauser


Kent County (MD)
Raise a glass to Rock Hall’s newest gem, Rock Hall Brewing Co. Nestled in this waterfront town, the brewery brings fresh energy to Kent County’s growing craft beverage scene. Visitors can enjoy a rotating selection of handcrafted beers, from crisp lagers to bold IPAs, brewed with creativity and local pride. The inviting taproom offers the perfect spot to relax after a day of exploring the Chesapeake Bay, while live music and community events add to the lively atmosphere. Whether you’re a craft beer aficionado or just looking for a refreshing stop, Rock Hall Brewing Co. is a must-visit destination.
Kent County Tourism


Talbot County (MD)
Talbot County, Maryland is home to Maryland’s longest-running brewery, Eastern Shore Brewing. Located in the charming, waterfront town of St. Michaels, Maryland, Eastern Shore Brewing offers its ales, lagers, and seasonal specialties in a lodge-like tasting room.
Tour Talbot

Photo Credit @carraway.beer

PENNSYLVANIA


Bucks County (PA)
Follow the Bucks County Ale Trail and discover 30+ outstanding craft breweries with the digital passport. One check-in to any brewery location is equal to 100 points. Start checking in to earn points and redeem for prizes. Visit https://www.visitbuckscounty.com/food-and-drink/bucks-county-ale-trail/ for more information.
Visit Bucks County


Cumberland Valley (PA)
Pennsylvania is one of the biggest producers of craft beer in the U.S., which is why the Cumberland Valley Beer Trail, located in Cumberland Valley PA should be on your list of brewery destinations to explore! There are nearly 30 breweries on the Cumberland Valley Beer Trail, which rewards craft beer with prizes and one-of-a-kind experiences. This year’s beer trail celebrates Pennsylvania sports, with new shirts and exclusive tailgates. The Cumberland Valley features a mix of well-known breweries like Pizza Boy and Ever Grain to smaller, growing craft beverages.
Visit Cumberland Valley


Endless Mountains (PA)
Nimble Hill is a family-owned Winery & Brewery located in the Endless Mountains of Northeastern Pennsylvania that is dedicated to producing some of the finest products available in the region. Stop in the Tasting Room located on Route 6 in Tunkhannock to discover the award-winning products brewed by this regional business. Nimble Hill’s products are sourced from a locally maintained one acre hop field which climbs on trellises just past our the family’s10 acre vineyard. Plans include advancing the local hop fields and vineyards each year so that the Nimble Hill grows as a self-sustaining regional winery and brewery.
Endless Mountains


Juniata River Valley (PA)
At Shy Bear Brewing, it’s all about great beer, good vibes, and a positive impact. Their 10-barrel brewhouse turns out everything from classic styles to progressive, whimsical brews—paired perfectly with a creative menu that evolves with the seasons. Families, kids, and pups are always welcome, especially in the beer garden where extensive live music and entertainment programs make warm days unforgettable. Beyond the glass, they’re committed to sustainability with 363 solar panels, on-demand water heating, and eco-friendly practices across the property.
Juniata River Valley Visitors Bureau


Lancaster County (PA)
Our Lancaster County Brew Trail is a great way to explore our many suds (some of the most in any PA county) and earn points toward branded swag at the same time. Learn why we were once known as the “Little Munich of America” and check out Bube’s Brewery in Mount Joy – the only U.S. lager brewery from the 1800s that has survived intact.“
Discover Lancaster


Lawrence County (PA)
Home to 5 microbreweries, each location offers a different atmosphere down to the type of brew. Enjoy a sports themed brewery at Brew 32, Crooked Tongue Brewing offers homemade food pairings with each lager and Neshannock Creek Brewing or “The Crick” as some Western Pennsylvanians would say, keeps its roots close with a rustic fishing lodge feel.
Visit Lawrence County


York County (PA)
York County, PA is a must-sip destination where craft beer fans can hop from one flavorful stop to the next. Enjoy American IPAs at AleCraft, Hefeweizen at Aviator, bold, balanced beers at Gift Horse and the ski-chalet vibe complete with outdoor bar and fire pits at South County Brewing Company. Many taprooms offer seasonal outdoor seating, welcome pets, and feature great live music. Plan your adventure with Explore York’s Digital Good Libations Trails, where you can check in, discover new favorites, and sip for swag. It’s York County—one memorable pint at a time.
Explore York

About the Mid-Atlantic Tourism Public Relations Alliance
The Mid-Atlantic Tourism Public Relations Alliance (MATPRA) is a collaborative network of tourism partners across Delaware, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Washington D.C., West Virginia – and coming soon… New Jersey! The alliance is dedicated to supporting travel journalists by providing resources that transcend geographic boundaries, much like travelers themselves. By identifying common themes and regional highlights, MATPRA offers a wealth of story ideas for journalists interested in showcasing the diverse destinations of the Mid-Atlantic region as a unified whole. For more information, visit matpra.org.

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Detour Destinations

Greetings MATPRA Media Partners,

MATPRA distributes press releases designed to inspire media coverage of the Mid-Atlantic region. We plan topics months in advance to accommodate longer lead times. If you have suggestions for future topics, we’d love to hear them! Please email ([email protected]).

Enhance your next trip to the MidAtlantic Region’s big cities with a delightful detour destination stop. Explore the surrounding area’s charming villages and towns to make the most of your trip by enjoying local eats, quirky shops, and peaceful parks along the way.

MARYLAND

Annapolis and Anne Arundel County (MD)
Beyond Annapolis, Anne Arundel County offers hidden gems worth exploring. Visit Historic London Town and Gardens in Edgewater for colonial history and lush landscapes. Try your luck at Live! Casino & Hotel in Hanover, adjacent to Arundel Mills Mall for shopping and entertainment. Discover cryptology’s secrets at the National Cryptologic Museum near Fort Meade. For nature lovers, hike scenic trails at the Smithsonian Environmental Research Center in Edgewater or bike the BWI Trail. A trip to Thomas Point Shoal Lighthouse is a hidden gem and a must-experience! These attractions blend history, nature, and fun—all just outside the capital’s spotlight.
Visit Annapolis


Calvert County (MD)
Battle Creek Cypress Swamp in Prince Frederick, Maryland is an ideal detour stop! Visitors can explore the boardwalk through the cypress trees, newly designed interactive exhibits, and one of the northernmost bald cypress swamps in the country! It’s peaceful, educational and uniquely local.
Choose Calvert


Kent County Economic and Tourism Development (MD)
Next time your travels take you through the Mid-Atlantic’s bustling cities, plan a refreshing detour to Kent County, Maryland. Just a short drive from urban hubs, this Eastern Shore gem offers a slower pace and authentic small-town charm. Wander Chestertown’s historic district, lined with unique shops and cozy cafés. Savor local flavors at waterfront restaurants or explore Rock Hall, where maritime heritage and friendly faces shine. Outdoor lovers can unwind at serene parks, scenic trails, or along the Chester River. Whether for a quick stop or a lingering stay, Kent County makes every detour truly delightful.
Kent County Tourism


Talbot County (MD)
Find the yin to the big city’s yang in Talbot County, Maryland, where you can explore the best of the Chesapeake Bay’s culture and cuisine, much of it bound together by a ribbon of backroads that string together the small-town pearls of Easton, Oxford, St. Michaels, and Tilghman Island. Each town offers its own distinct character and timeless appeal, creating a journey that whispers tales of colonial grandeur, maritime heritage, and the tranquil beauty of the Chesapeake Bay.
Tour Talbot


Washington County (MD)
When in D.C. or Baltimore, add a charming detour to Hagerstown-Washington County, MD. Just 1 hour away, it offers an escape from city life, inviting you to explore its quaint historic towns. Discover Hagerstown’s Arts & Entertainment District or visit the Antietam National Battlefield in Sharpsburg. Hike or bike the C&O Canal in Williamsport. Enjoy local eats, browse quirky shops, or find peace in serene parks like Greenbrier State Park. Try kayaking on the Potomac River and hike the Appalachian Trail. This trip is filled with history, nature, and authentic local character. History – it’s in our Nature!
Visit Hagerstown

PENNSYLVANIA

Bucks County (PA)
Peddler’s Village has 65 unique shops and six unique restaurants on 42 acres of landscaped gardens and brick pathways located between Doylestown and New Hope. Guests can enjoy year-round events and festivities, including specially themed months, weekend celebrations, fall scarecrow displays, comedy nights and so much more.
Visit Bucks County


Butler County (PA)
Butler County’s small towns are constantly evolving and growing. By fostering new businesses, creating unique events, and community collaboration, they’ve become a true destination for visitors. Just 25 miles from Pittsburgh, they make a perfect detour.

The charming towns of Saxonburg, Zelienople, and Harmony are known for their unique history with specialized museums, trendy boutiques and delicious restaurants. Butler and Zelienople come alive with seasonal street fairs and markets, offering extended shopping hours, local music, and fun for all.

Finally, visit Portersville and beautiful Moraine State Park, the perfect spot for a picnic, hike, or boat tour.
Experience Butler


Endless Mountains (PA)
Three seasons of the year, Brown Hill Farms is a detour destination in the heart of the Endless Mountains agricultural area that offers visitors seasonal ways to celebrate! At the beautiful property located near Tunkhannock, right off historic Route 6, Brown Hill Farms provides opportunities to stroll through over 400,000 tulips and daffodils each spring, bask in the glow of summertime magic on thirty acres of sunflowers and cut flowers, and provide the perfect fall foliage activity of picking a pumpkin from a patch that grows classic orange pumpkins as well as blue heirloom varieties.
Endless Mountains

York County (PA)
York County, PA is the perfect detour destination—close to Lancaster, Gettysburg, Hershey, and Baltimore, yet full of its own unforgettable experiences. It’s easy to turn a quick stop into a full weekend with vibrant downtowns, rich history, rolling farmlands, and a thriving food and craft beverage scene. Fun year-round, York County always has something new to explore, whether you’re chasing seasonal festivals, scenic trails, or hidden gems that make every visit feel fresh and inviting.
Explore York

About the Mid-Atlantic Tourism Public Relations Alliance
The Mid-Atlantic Tourism Public Relations Alliance (MATPRA) is a collaborative network of tourism partners across Delaware, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Washington D.C., West Virginia – and coming soon… New Jersey! The alliance is dedicated to supporting travel journalists by providing resources that transcend geographic boundaries, much like travelers themselves. By identifying common themes and regional highlights, MATPRA offers a wealth of story ideas for journalists interested in showcasing the diverse destinations of the Mid-Atlantic region as a unified whole. For more information, visit matpra.org.

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Winter, Walk This Way: A Guide to Snowshoeing in Erie, PA

Guest Contributor: Heather Cass

Erie receives an average of more than 100 inches of snow each year, making it a winter lover’s playground. From skiing to ice fishing to snowmobiling, there is no shortage of outdoor fun to be found in the area. If you’d like to have some fun in the flakes, one of the easiest and most pleasurable ways to do so is to strap on a pair of snowshoes and start exploring.

Where to go

You can find miles of trails to snowshoe at Presque Isle State Park, Asbury Woods, and Peek’n Peak Resort.

However, the joy of snowshoeing is that you can do it anywhere you find snow—even off-trail, through public game lands, along the waterfront, or, for a unique Erie experience, on the frozen waters of Presque Isle Bay! (Note that the ice should be at least seven inches thick to walk on the bay. Check ice reports here).

Snowshoeing at Presque Isle State Park at sunset is an awe-inspiring trek. Some of Erie’s most beautiful evening skies are in the winter when the colors overhead are offset by a blanket of sparkling white snow on the landscape and the breathtaking ice dunes that hug and protect the Lake Erie shoreline from sand erosion. Just remember to admire the ice dunes from a distance and avoid walking on them, as they are hollow and dangerous.

Asbury Woods provides a peaceful escape where the only sounds are the crunch of fresh powder beneath your feet and the whisper of the wind through the trees. “Snowshoeing is a great way to get outside and get some fresh air and exercise in the colder months,” said Sarah Bennett, director of education and community programs at Asbury Woods Nature Center. “Physically, it is a little more rigorous than walking, but it doesn’t require any special skills.”

At Peek’n Peak Resort, rolling hills and snow-draped trees create a breathtaking backdrop for your snowshoeing adventure. With each step through the crisp, powdery trails, it’s an invigorating rush of fresh mountain air.

What to know

“If you can walk, you can snowshoe,” Bennett said. The key is to remain aware of how large your feet are with snowshoes on. Clown-shoe-size feet require extra care when turning or changing direction and when following others. “You want to stay a foot or two away from the person in front of you so you don’t accidentally step on the back of their snowshoe, which will trip you both up,” she said.

Bennett said that snowshoeing does require some balance, but trekking poles can help provide stability for those who may need it. Most snowshoes come with poles, whether purchased or rented.

Where to find shoes

Both Asbury Woods and Peek’n Peak Resort rent snowshoes for use on their trails, provided there is at least six inches or more of snow. Another option is to invest in your own snowshoes. A set of entry-level, recreational shoes sells for as little as $60 online and at mass retailers.

What to wear

You will work up a sweat from the effort of snowshoeing. This is what makes snowshoeing such a pleasurable wintertime activity. You can be outdoors enjoying the winter wonderland while generating more than enough heat to stay warm.

“We suggest that people dress the same as they would if they were going cross-country skiing,” Bennett said. “It’s best to dress in layers, so you can take some clothing off if you start to overheat and put it back on if you get chilled.”

Suggested attire:

  • Waterproof winter boots
  • Long, warm socks
  • Gloves (add mittens on top on very cold days)
  • Warm hat
  • Scarf or gaiter
  • Fleece-lined tights or snow pants
  • Moisture-wicking, long-sleeve top
  • Fleece pullover or light sweatshirt
  • Jacket, coat, or windbreaker, depending on temperature/windchill
  • Sunglasses (daytime) or headlamp (evening)

Heather Cass is Publications Manager at Penn State Behrend.

The Mid-Atlantic Story: Celebrating 250 Years of America’s Spirit

Across the Mid-Atlantic, 250th anniversary commemorations are unfolding in imaginative and meaningful ways from storytelling performances and art installations to small-town festivals that remind us what unity and independence truly mean.

Each event reflects a different thread in the nation’s rich tapestry whether through music, community pride, or creative expression offering visitors endless opportunities to uncover authentic stories that connect people and place.

The Juniata River Valley is gearing up for a spectacular year of celebration as we commemorate America 250 with special events all year long. The festivities begin with the Star Spangled Soirée, a semi-formal evening at Juniata Valley Winery featuring live music, delicious food, patriotic décor, and an appearance by a George Washington impersonator inside the winery’s beautiful Federal-style home.

Independence Day week will shine even brighter with fireworks and two hometown parades. Goose Day will join in the fun with a patriotic twist, offering a whimsical “Goose Washington” photo shoot, while the Festival of Ice transforms into an American Adventure themed celebration. With many more events planned throughout 2026, our community is ready to honor America’s 250th birthday in unforgettable style.

In Greensburg, Pennsylvania, the Palace Theatre will host “The Unlikely Union: A Storytelling Symphony of America” on January 17, 2026. This distinctive performance brings together Professor Greg Jackson, the historian behind History That Doesn’t Suck, and the Westmoreland Symphony Orchestra under the direction of Maestro Daniel Meyer. Blending narrative and music, the performance reimagines the pivotal moments of America’s first century. The show will not be recorded, making it a once-in-a-lifetime experience for audiences and an irresistible subject for writers seeking to explore how art and history intersect in the Mid-Atlantic’s creative scene.

Add a bit of humorous knowledge to your 250 celebrations with “The Complete History of America (Abridged)” at Prima Theatre in Lancaster City, running April 17 through May 3. Three performers, dozens of characters, centuries of chaos—90 minutes of laughs! It’s a perfect reminder that history can be meaningful and wildly entertaining, especially when shared in a room full of people ready to celebrate.

Each summer, Culpeper, Virginia comes alive with its beloved 4th of July Celebration—a day that captures the essence of small-town America at its most joyful. Parades, live music, food, and fireworks fill the day with color and community spirit. Set against the backdrop of Culpeper’s historic downtown and rolling countryside, the celebration brings together locals and visitors alike to honor independence, fellowship, and tradition. For travel writers, it’s a vivid opportunity to explore how a town with deep Revolutionary roots continues to celebrate freedom in ways that feel both timeless and new.

On the coast, Hampton, Virginia adds its own creative twist to the 250th commemorations with “Crabs on King & Queen.” This charming event places decorative “crabs” throughout downtown Hampton, each featuring a QR code linking to stories and information about Hampton VA250. The trail leads visitors through King Street and Queen Street, culminating in the city’s annual Lighted Crab Pot Drop on New Year’s Eve—a festive local tradition that illuminates the night sky as the community rings in a new year of history, hope, and heritage. This event offers visitors a chance to explore how art and technology can come together to tell a city’s story, blending creativity, curiosity, and coastal charm.

Crab on King & Queen Event

A Region of Endless Discovery

Whether you’re standing in a concert hall in Pennsylvania, a historic downtown in Virginia, or a bustling coastal street lined with lighted sculptures, the Mid-Atlantic offers an ever-growing list of experiences and stories to tell. It’s a region where communities transform history into art, festivals into fellowship, and anniversaries into opportunities for reflection. Each celebration—whether grand or intimate—adds another verse to America’s ongoing narrative.

America’s 250th Commemoration – New Exhibits in the Mid-Atlantic

The Mid-Atlantic region stretching from the Chesapeake Bay to the Blue Ridge Mountains is more than just a geographic crossroads. It is where America’s story was written, challenged, and rewritten again through generations of innovation, faith, and freedom. For travels, it offers a landscape of inspiration: a region alive with museums, historic sites, culinary experiences, and communities that continue to shape the nation’s identity.

A Living Legacy of Freedom and Faith

Across Virginia and its neighboring states, the echoes of revolution and reform still resonate. In Culpeper, Virginia, the Museum of Culpeper History invites visitors to reflect on the founding ideals that forged the American spirit.

Culpeper Minute Men: Icons of Independence

One of the museum’s cornerstone exhibits, “Culpeper Minute Men: Icons of Independence,” explores how the local militia’s bravery during the Revolution evolved into an enduring symbol of patriotism and civic pride. The story connects past and present, showing how ideals of independence continue to inspire communities today.

Culpeper Baptist Church 250: 1774–2024

Just steps away, another exhibit “Culpeper Baptist Church 250: 1774–2024” celebrates 250 years of faith and service. Developed by the church itself, the display tells how Baptist missionaries in Culpeper helped secure America’s early religious freedoms, and how that commitment to faith-based service has guided the church’s mission for centuries.

Coming Soon in Lancaster: History, Democracy, and the Fight for Opportunity

Slated to open in May 2026, the powerful national stories and insights of the Thaddeus Stevens & Lydia Hamilton Smith Center for History and Democracy in Lancaster City will utilize their experiences to help highlight larger themes within our country’s continuous striving for freedom and opportunity for all. More than a museum stop, the Center will invite visitors to connect Lancaster’s story to the broader American journey—how democracy is shaped, challenged, and strengthened through courageous leadership, community action, and the ongoing pursuit of justice.

These stories invite travelers not just to look back, but also to see how the Mid-Atlantic’s pursuit of liberty and community still thrives today. From colonial landmarks and Civil War trails to modern art centers and living museums, the region offers a thousand ways to explore America’s evolving identity.

Moreover, new stories and experiences are always emerging, new exhibits, restorations, and celebrations that breathe life into old ideas and invite travelers to see history through fresh eyes. Future additions may explore everything from maritime heritage to music, migration, and the ongoing fight for equality and innovation.

Five Great Places to Hike in Erie, Pennsylvania

Fifty-seven percent of Pennsylvania is forested. In fact, the state’s name translates into “Penn’s Woods,” Penn referring to William Penn who established the first colony, and “Sylvania,” which means woods or forest in Latin.  For those who like to hike and spend time in nature, there are numerous places to do so in the Erie area. There is a trail suitable for nearly any age or ability and most are just a short drive from the city.

Here are five great hiking spots to explore in Erie County:

Presque Isle State Park

Presque Isle State Park has several trails, ranging from very short connector trails to a 13-mile paved multipurpose trail that encircles the park. There are three good middle-of-the-road options for those who want to get off the beaten path and walk in nature a mile or so: Dead Pond Trail, 2 miles; Long Pond Trail, 1 mile; and the Sidewalk Trail, 1.25 miles. All three are out-and-back trails near the top of the park that are marked with signage and are easily accessible from the road/multipurpose trail. See a PISP trail map here.

Erie Bluffs State Park

Erie Bluffs State Park, 17 miles west of Erie, in Lake City, is Erie’s other state park. This 587-acre park is a wilder, less-developed area with a mile of shoreline and 90-foot bluffs overlooking Lake Erie.  The park has a total of 5.16 miles of trails that are made up of several short trails that connect at various points, so you can easily string several small trails together for a longer hike. The trails are well marked. There is ample parking at the main entrance and portable toilets and lake access at the nearby Elk Creek access entrance. See an Erie Bluffs trail map here.

Tip: Pennsylvania State Park Rangers offer several free programs, hikes, and activities at both parks.

Asbury Woods

Asbury Woods is a 234-acre nature center west of Erie, with acres of fields, forests, wetlands, and more than 5 miles of wooded and well-maintained trails that traverse through them. The longest, The Greenway Trail, 2.2 miles, connects a series of land parcels, with Asbury Woods Nature Center and Brown’s Farm anchoring each end. A highlight of this trail is a scenic steel walking bridge over Walnut Creek that offers access to the creek where you can cool your heels.  Asbury Woods Nature Center offers animal exhibits, information, restrooms, and a gift shop. There are also picnic pavilions and play areas for children.  See an Asbury Woods trail map here.

Headwaters Park

Headwaters Park is a hidden gem, an oasis of nature on thirty-five acres tucked into an industrial park in Millcreek. So named because it is the start of the headwaters of Mill Creek, you’ll find nearly three miles of trails on this parcel of nature covered with mature hardwoods, native grasses, wildflowers, and more.  There is interpretive signage, a boardwalk over the wetlands, an accessible stream for fossil hunting, ample parking, picnic tables, and portable toilets. See a map of Headwaters Park trails here.

Wintergreen Gorge

The Wintergreen Gorge is a 4,000-foot long, 250-foot-wide chasm on the edge of the campus of Penn State University Behrend Campus that is estimated to have been formed more than 11,000 years ago at the end of the last ice age, as melting water formed a meandering path to Lake Erie. Wintergreen Gorge Trail is a 2.3-mile out-and-back trail that travels along Fourmile Creek in the gorge for the first half mile and then up through the woods for the second half mile before summitting at a picturesque overlook, known locally as the Devil’s Backbone. Though the trail is not blazed, it’s easy to follow the wide, main path. There are no restrooms, but there is interpretive signage and plenty of parking at the Cooper Road entrance. See a map of Wintergreen Gorge Trail here.

Trail Talk
A few terms that are helpful to know when choosing a trail:

Blaze: A colored mark, usually painted or nailed to a tree, to help you follow the trail.
Easy/Moderate/Strenuous: Trail descriptions that refer to difficulty. Easy is usually flat and grassy. Moderate includes some hills, roots, and rocks. Strenuous means serious uphills, rough terrain, and sometimes climbing.
Loop: The trail starts and finishes in the same spot.
Out-and-back: Trail goes to a certain point, and then you turn around and take the same trail back to the start.
Point-to-Point: The trail starts at one point and ends at another.