Author: Ryan Cherry

Photo by Stuck on the Go

Thousand Steps– Known as one of the most famous hikes in Pennsylvania, this hike will challenge even the most experienced hiker, but the reward is in the incredible view of Mapleton, the Juniata River, and Route 22 and 655 from the top of the steps. Easily accessed from Route 22, between Mount Union and Huntingdon, the 1,000 steps trailhead starts at the parking area along the main highway. Use GPS coordinates, 40.39169, -77.91420 to find the parking area. This hike covers approximately 850 feet of elevation change over the course of .5 miles and technically, there are 1,037 steps! At the top, not only can you enjoy some fantastic scenic overlooks, but also an old stone quarry, and the ruins of a train shed.

Fun fact- Did you know that the steps were built by the men who worked in the Ledge Quarry at the top of the mountain so they could get to and from work every day?

Jack’s Mountain Overlook- This overlook gives you not only breathtaking view, but two magnificent views of the valleys below. This popular pull-off at the crest of the mountain for vehicles that have made the climb up the steep road from the valleys below affords views of Big Valley on one side of the road and Ferguson Valley on the other side. Starting every fall, volunteers from the Jack’s Mountain Hawk Watch are stationed at the overlook to count the migrating birds above. Stop by and chat with the friendly volunteers to learn about hawks and more!

Stone Mountain Hawk Watch -Located in the Rothrock State Forest near the Mifflin-Huntingdon County line. This scenic overlook features a platform constructed by volunteers from the State College Bird Club and Juniata Valley Audubon for the purpose of observing and recording the fall hawk migration. The hawk watch is located approximately a third of a mile from the parking area along Allensville Road. Use GPS coordinates, 40.56904, -77.82863 to find the parking area. This hike is also part of the Standing Stone Trail and uses orange-blazed markers. From the platform, enjoy views of Big Valley to the east, Rothrock State Forest to the west, and Standing Stone Trail to the south.

Sausser’s Stone Pile– This incredible rock formation and scenic overlook is just a mere .4 miles from Stone Mountain Hawk Watch. Continue north on Standing Stone Trail past the hawk watch sign to reach the stone pile. The 180-degree views when facing Huntingdon County and to the south, you’re facing in the direction of the Thousand Steps. To the north, you’re facing Greenwood Furnace State Park. Look west and look down about 50 yards to see the stacked-stone feature called “Indian Outlook.”

Big Valley Vista is located along Millheim Pike in Mifflin County in Bald Eagle State Forest. Use GPS coordinates 40.78464, -77.51479 to guide you to this excellent view 3 miles northeast of Siglerville. No hiking required!

New Lancaster Valley Vista is located along Locust Ridge Road in Snyder County in Bald Eagle State Forest. Use GPS coordinates 40.79362, -77.31011 to navigate to this extraordinary vista facing Milroy and Mifflin County in the distance. No hiking required!

Scenic views, paths less-traveled, charming communities, local favorites – there’s a reason you seek out “hidden gems” for vacations, and South Juniata County has some of the best.

Explore this genuine and unpretentious area using the suggested itineraries in the newly updated “So. J Co.” tour, designed around three of the biggest attractions in the southern end of the county. This self-guided tour will introduce you to local businesses, historic sites, delicious food, and lodging locations, all located south of State Route 322.

“The charms of southern Juniata County are far between, but anything but few,” said Buffie Boyer, communications director for the Juniata River Valley Visitors Bureau. “There are numerous ways to enjoy the rural landscape of this Central Pennsylvania county, and we have laid out three itineraries that visitors can follow or use to create their own tour.”

Follow our country roads for the “Handpicked” tour, which introduces guests to local growers passionate about sharing their agricultural knowledge while providing locally grown produce, flowers, livestock, and grapes. Better yet, stop by local restaurants sourcing these fresh, flavorful ingredients for unforgettable meals. Don’t forget to visit the newly opened Midway Flea Market for unique finds and local treasures.

Get off the beaten path and find yourself in Mother Nature’s playground with the “RV There Yet?” tour. Take your family to the fun-filled, award-winning Buttonwood Campground, where you’ll find plenty of outdoor adventures, including fishing and floating on the Juniata River, miniature golf, a gigantic jumping pillow, pedal karts, laser tag, and more. Venture off the campground to cool down with some ice cream and end your day by relaxing under the stars at the drive-in movie theater.
Complete your trip with a “Speed Palace TailGREAT” tailgating party at Port Royal Speedway, the East Coast’s premier half-mile dirt track. Supply your tailgate with the freshest food and tastiest drinks from local businesses to fuel your body as you cheer on your favorite driver.

The tour includes some bonus ideas, including a Ragamuffin Hall, a vibrant new music venue welcoming world-class musicians, many historical sites, two women-owned boutiques, a coffee shop, and a guided fly-fishing tour.

With three distinct areas, all having personalities worth getting to know, the opportunity for adventure is endless in the Juniata River Valley. Step outside and discover, at your own pace, the hidden gems that have attracted visitors to this region time and again.

For more information, call the Juniata River Valley Visitors Bureau at (717) 248-6713 or visit www.jrvvisitors.com.