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Goose Day – Eat Goose, Get Luck!

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Centuries of Goose, Generations of Luck

Celebrate from September 25–29 in the Juniata River Valley

LEWISTOWN – For more than two centuries, Goose Day has brought luck, laughter, and plenty of goose to the Juniata River Valley—and this year’s celebration promises to be bigger, quirkier, and goosier than ever. From September 25–29, the region will be bursting with traditions old and new, proving once again why this one-of-a-kind holiday is worth flocking to. In honor of America’s 250th birthday, this year’s festivities will take on a patriotic flair, blending red, white, and blue pride with the area’s beloved Goose Day traditions for a celebration that’s as spirited as it is uniquely local.

“We love celebrating the traditions that have made Goose Day special for generations, but we also can’t resist celebrating new ways for people to join the fun,” said Jenny Landis, executive director of the Juniata River Valley Visitors Bureau. “This year’s mix of classic and goosier events promises to make this year’s celebration the goosiest one yet.”

In recognition of America’s 250th birthday, a festive new highlight – a Goose Day Parade, is being introduced to this year’s lineup of activities. This year’s parade theme, “Red, White & Goose,” brings an additional patriotic event to the year-long celebration.

“Goose Day is a tradition that is special to our community, and the ‘Red, White and Goose Day Parade’ gives us a chance to celebrate our Nation’s 250th anniversary while also honoring a tradition that has been part of Mifflin County for generations,” said Kevin Kodish, Mifflin County Commissioner and JRVVB Board President.

The parade will step off on the official holiday, September 29, at 6:30 p.m. in downtown Lewistown, bringing the streets to life with festive floats, community spirits, and plenty of goose-themed fun. For a parade application, visit gooseday.fun.

In addition to the parade, two other America250-themed activities will be added to the celebration. This year’s featured goose, Goose Washington, will be making special appearances, offering photo opportunities during Lewistown First Friday on September 4 and Lucky Friday on September 25. A Flat Goose Washington activity has also been introduced, inviting participants to take the free download of Flat Goose Washington to their favorite locations, snap a photo, and share it on social media by tagging the Goose Day Facebook page—spreading Goose Day spirit near and far.

 

Here’s also what’s new this year:

  • The biggest goose ever seen in the Juniata River Valley will be on display at One-Stop Communications on East Market Street in downtown Lewistown. Selfies with the goose are a must!
  • Two penny presses that include Goose Day-themed embossed designs. Machines are located at the JRVVB office and The Square Café & Bakery, both on Market Street in Lewistown.
  • On Goose Day, Shy Bear is bringing the Stable Shakers “Do the Dead” harmony laden interpretation of a Grateful Dead tribute. At this ticketed event, guests can also eat your lucky goose.
  • Goose Day is getting its own book series by Jennifer Bright. “The Goose Day Adventure” is a coloring and activity book and “The Goose Day Adventure Rewards: is a pocket-sized rewards book filled with special offers. Books will be available at local stores and on Bookshop.org and Amazon.com.
  • Craft seasonal outfits or personalize your own porch goose with Painting Parties by Judy.
  • Joining the celebration with new events includes 4th & Market, Brookline Retirement Village, The Scope & Binocular Shoppe, and Grace United Methodist Church.

Of course, Goose Day wouldn’t be complete without returning favorites:

And don’t forget the food! This year, 12 locations will serve roast goose dinners (reserve early!), along with creative twists like goose pizza, goose soup, goose poutine, BBQ goose parfaits, and goose confit.

Shoppers can flock to GetGoosed.Store for fresh finds, including customized squishy goose toys, penny bandz, magnets, and enamel pins. Many local retailers are also offering Goose Day merchandise including shirts, earrings, ornaments and more.

The 2026 Goose Day postcards will be available at the visitors bureau office and the commemorative Goose Day pictorial postcard will be at the Lewistown Post Office on Sept. 29. And as always, the first baby born on Goose Day at Geisinger Lewistown Hospital will be wrapped in good fortune—along with a handmade afghan blanket and goose toy by local artisan Betsy Cox

With centuries of history, a dash of quirk, and a whole lot of community spirit, Goose Day continues to bring generations together in the Juniata River Valley. Still wondering what Goose Day is. Read the Goose Day Legend flyer here, https://jrvvisitors.com/goose-day/

Mark your calendars, grab your flock, and get ready to celebrate Goose Day, September 25–29. Luck—and goose—is waiting for you!

For more details and a full schedule of events, visit gooseday.fun.

An August Day on the Canal

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Step Back in Time at “An August Day on the Canal”

MCVEYTOWN — Experience life along the Juniata River in the 1800s during “An August Day on the Canal,” a free, family-friendly event from 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Saturday, August 22 at the Newton Hamilton Canal House, 515 Ferguson Valley Road, Newton Hamilton.

Hosted by the Newton-Wayne Historical Society, the event invites visitors to explore how canal boats once navigated the Juniata River and to learn about ongoing efforts to rehabilitate the last surviving lockhouse of its kind. The day will begin with the dedication of a new interpretive sign, highlighting the significance of the site and its role in the region’s transportation history.

Following the dedication, guests can enjoy guided tours and presentations scheduled throughout the day, offering insight into how the lock system operated and the daily life of those who managed canal traffic. The canal house itself served as the home for lockkeepers, who played a vital role in controlling the flow of boats along the waterway.

Visitors can also engage in hands-on activities and demonstrations that bring the past to life. Exhibits will include traditional cauldron canning (demonstration only), and children can try their hand at cutting firewood using a two-man saw. Organizers will have a mule on site to help recreate the authentic sights and sounds of canal-era life.

In addition to educational programming, attendees can enjoy simple, old-fashioned refreshments such as homemade bread, butter, apple butter, and cider.

The Newton Hamilton Canal House is part of the Juniata River Canal Driving Tour, a 125-mile route that highlights historic canal assets across six counties. The tour offers travelers a unique way to explore the remnants of Pennsylvania’s canal era and the communities that grew alongside it.

“Events like this bring history to life in a way that you simply can’t experience in a classroom,” said Sam Miller, president of the Newton Wayne Historical Society. “The canal system played a vital role in shaping our communities, and this is a wonderful opportunity for visitors and residents alike to connect with that heritage while enjoying a truly authentic Juniata River Valley experience.”

For more information, contact the Newton Hamilton Historical Society at info@newtonhamilton.org or visit https://www.juniatarivercanaltour.com/.

Big Boy No. 4014 Steam Train Visit to Lewistown

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Historic Big Boy No. 4014 Steam Locomotive to Make Whistle-Stop in Mifflin County for America250 Tour

Free shuttle service offered by visitors bureau

LEWISTOWN — One of the most powerful and iconic steam locomotives ever built is coming to the Juniata River Valley. Union Pacific’s legendary Big Boy No. 4014 will make a scheduled whistle-stop near the Roundhouse Road crossing in Granville Township on Wednesday, July 8, 2026, as part of its America250 coast-to-coast tour.

The locomotive is expected to arrive at approximately 12:45 p.m. and depart around 1:15 p.m., offering a rare opportunity for residents and visitors to witness a true piece of American railroad history in motion.

Free Shuttle Service Available
To help accommodate large crowds and ensure a safe, enjoyable experience, the Juniata River Valley Visitors Bureau will provide FREE shuttle service from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on July 8.

Shuttles will depart from the Lewistown Borough parking lot next to Heller-Hoenstine Funeral Home (200 N. Main Street, Lewistown) and will run continuously to and from the Roundhouse Road crossing viewing area. An information tent will also be set up at the parking location.

“We’re incredibly excited to welcome Big Boy No. 4014 to the Juniata River Valley as part of the America’s 250th celebration,” said Jenny Landis, executive director of the Juniata River Valley Visitors Bureau. “We anticipate thousands of people traveling to our community since this is the only whistle stop between Lebanon and Altoona. With road closures in place and limited access near the viewing area, we saw a clear need to provide a safe, convenient transportation option. Our goal is to reduce congestion, improve safety, and help ensure this once-in-a-lifetime experience is enjoyable for both our residents and visitors.”

Important Viewing Information
Visitors are reminded that the Lewistown Train Station is closed to the public due to ongoing construction. Only individuals with a valid Amtrak ticket will be permitted in the immediate station area.

The designated viewing area for the locomotive is approximately 1.5 miles beyond the station near the Roundhouse Road crossing.

Traffic Advisory and Safety Guidelines
The Granville Township Police Department advises that significant traffic congestion is expected before and after the train’s arrival. Officers will be deployed throughout the area to assist with traffic management and public safety.

Helen Street will be closed during the event. Additionally, Roundhouse Road will be closed to through traffic from the railroad crossing near Baldwin Drive to State Route 103 North, with access restricted to local traffic only. Visitors should use the northern entrance of Roundhouse Road near the MCIDC Plaza.

Parking and viewing will be permitted along designated portions of Roundhouse Road. Attendees are asked not to block roadways, driveways, or access points and to respect private property and local businesses.

For the safety of all attendees:

  • Remain at least 25 feet from railroad tracks at all times.
  • Never trespass on railroad property, bridges, or rights-of-way.
  • Obey all posted signs and instructions from law enforcement.
  • Do not stop vehicles on roadways, bridges, or railroad crossings.
  • Keep children under close supervision.
  • Be alert for moving trains and equipment on adjacent tracks.
  • Allow extra travel time and expect temporary traffic control measures.

Emergency vehicle access routes must remain clear at all times.

“We welcome visitors coming to Granville Township to experience this unique piece of railroad history,” said Chief Chad Brehman. “We ask everyone to make safety their top priority so that all attendees can enjoy the event and return home safely.”

The public is encouraged to monitor local media, township communications, and official event updates for any changes. Train schedules are subject to change based on railroad operations and weather conditions.

Big Boy No. 4014 is one of only eight surviving Union Pacific Big Boy steam locomotives. Measuring more than 132 feet long and weighing over 1.2 million pounds, it is the largest operating steam locomotive in the world. Its national tour celebrates America’s 250th anniversary and is expected to draw thousands of visitors to Mifflin County, as this will be the only whistle-stop between Lebanon and Altoona.

For more information, call (717) 248-6713.

RV There Yet?

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Camp Your Way Through the Juniata River Valley

Whether you’re rolling in with a camper, pitching a tent under the stars, or settling in for a full week of relaxation, the Juniata River Valley is the perfect place to unplug and unwind. From riverfront views to quiet mountain escapes, our local campgrounds offer something for every kind of camper.

Riverfront Camping & Water Adventures

If your ideal getaway includes the sound of water and easy access to outdoor fun, you’ll find several campgrounds nestled along the Juniata River.

These spots are ideal for campers who want to spend their days on the water and their evenings around the campfire.

Mountain & Valley Retreats

Prefer a more secluded escape? Head into the ridges and valleys where you’ll find peaceful surroundings and plenty of room to breathe.

These locations are perfect for those looking to disconnect and immerse themselves in nature.

Unique Stays & Hidden Gems

Many of these campgrounds offer seasonal sites for long-term stays as well as transient sites for weekend adventurers, giving you flexibility no matter how long you plan to stay.

Don’t Forget the State Parks

Looking for a more rustic experience? Local state parks also offer excellent tent camping options, often surrounded by forests, lakes, and scenic trails—perfect for a back-to-basics getaway. Nearby parks include Reeds Gap State Park, Greenwood Furnace State Park, Poe Valley State Park, Poe Paddy State Park, and Penn Roosevelt State Park.

Make the Most of Camping Season

Summer is the perfect time to step back, slow down, and enjoy the simple things—crackling campfires, star-filled skies, and of course, toasted s’mores. Whether you’re parking your RV for a week or pitching a tent for a night or two, the Juniata River Valley is ready to welcome you.

So, pack up your gear, gather your crew, and find your perfect campsite—riverfront, mountainside, or somewhere in between.

Book Signing with Tory Talks Trails

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Discover Pennsylvania’s Natural Beauty with Tory Mather in Lewistown

Outdoor enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and lovers of Pennsylvania’s scenic landscapes won’t want to miss a special upcoming event in downtown Lewistown.

On Friday, June 5 from 5–7 p.m., join us at The Crooked Shelf Bookshop during Lewistown First Friday for a book signing with outdoor content creator Tory Mather.

Tory is the voice behind “Tory Talks Trails,” a growing social media platform dedicated to showcasing the beauty of the outdoors and inspiring others to explore. Now, she’s bringing that passion to the page with her first book, Scenic Natural Wonders of Pennsylvania: Caverns, Overlooks, Falls, and Vistas.

A Journey Across Pennsylvania’s Hidden Gems

In Scenic Natural Wonders of Pennsylvania, Tory invites readers to traverse high cliffs, descend into deep caves, trek to remote waterfalls, and even discover peaceful urban oases. The book highlights 84 carefully selected destinations that showcase the incredible diversity of Pennsylvania’s landscape—proving there’s so much more to explore beyond Philadelphia and Pittsburgh.

From the thundering beauty of Ohiopyle Falls to the quiet charm of Salt Springs State Park, each location offers something unique. Whether it’s climbing to the top of Mount Nittany, spotting wildflowers at Raccoon Creek State Park Wildflower Reserve, or taking in sweeping river views from Hawk Rock, the book is packed with inspiration for every level of explorer.

The Juniata River Valley Highlighted

We’re especially excited that the Juniata River Valley is featured among these natural wonders. Local highlights in the book include the breathtaking views from Stone Mountain Hawk Watch and the scenic beauty of Big Valley Vista—two spots that perfectly capture the spirit of outdoor adventure in our region.

Meet the Author

Stop by during First Friday to meet Tory in person, hear about her adventures across the Commonwealth, and pick up a signed copy of her new book. Whether you’re planning your next hike or simply looking for inspiration to get outside, this is a great opportunity to connect with a creator who is passionate about helping others discover the natural beauty of Pennsylvania.

Make it an evening—explore downtown Lewistown, support local businesses, and celebrate the outdoors with us.

We’ll see you there!

Soaring into Spectacle: The Mifflin County Glider Competition

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Every spring, the skies above the Juniata River Valley come alive with a quiet kind of thrill—one powered not by engines, but by wind, skill, and the art of flight.

Soaring into Spectacle: The Mifflin County Glider Competition

Aircraft enthusiasts and glider gurus from across the United States and Canada flock to Mifflin County Airport for the annual Soaring Contest—an event that transforms this local airfield into one of the most exciting aviation showcases in the country.

In 2026, the stakes soar even higher as the airport hosts the 15m and Sports Class Nationals from May 15 through May 23. These elite competitions draw top pilots flying sleek, engine-less sailplanes capable of traveling up to 500 miles per flight and reaching speeds of 150 mph—all by harnessing the natural energy of the sky.

The Art of Engine-Free Flight

Unlike traditional aircraft, gliders rely entirely on the forces of nature. Each flight begins with a tow plane pulling the glider into the air via a long rope. Once the pilot reaches the right altitude, the rope is released—and the real challenge begins.

With no engine to provide thrust, pilots must skillfully read the landscape and sky to stay aloft. They search for:

  • Ridge lift: wind flowing upward along mountain slopes
  • Wave lift: powerful air currents created by winds crossing mountain ranges
  • Thermal lift: rising columns of warm air

It’s a delicate balance of lift, drag, and gravity—and a true test of both strategy and instinct.

Interestingly, glider pilots aren’t the only ones who master this technique. Look closely and you might spot hawks or vultures circling nearby, riding the same thermals to gain altitude without flapping a wing.

A Front-Row Seat to Flight

One of the best parts? You’re invited to watch.

Spectators are welcome to come out and experience the magic of takeoff. Each day—typically between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., weather permitting—gliders line up on the runway, ready to launch into the sky.

Pack a picnic, grab a seat at the airport pavilion, and enjoy a front-row view as these graceful aircraft are lifted one by one into the air. It’s a peaceful yet awe-inspiring scene you won’t forget.

Why Here?

Pilots consider this region one of the best in the United States for soaring. The surrounding ridges create ideal updraft conditions, making it a prime destination for competitive gliding and record-setting flights.

Don’t Miss It

Whether you’re an aviation enthusiast or just looking for a unique outdoor experience, the Soaring Contest offers something truly special. It’s where science meets sport—and where the sky is anything but the limit.

Come watch, relax, and witness the beauty of flight in its purest form.

Coopers Gap: Ride the Flow

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Ride the Flow: Explore Coopers Gap with Our New Mountain Biking Brochure

Drop into the heart of Rothrock State Forest and you’ll quickly understand why Coopers Gap is often called Pennsylvania’s ultimate singletrack playground.

Tucked near Reedsville, this legendary trail system delivers mile after mile of pure riding rhythm—where buttery-smooth flow sections roll effortlessly into just enough rock and technical challenge to keep things exciting. It’s the kind of place where every turn feels dialed in, every descent earns a grin, and every climb feels like part of the adventure.

And now, exploring it all just got a whole lot easier.

Your Guide to the Ride

Our brand-new Coopers Gap brochure was created to help riders of all levels experience this incredible trail network with confidence. Whether you’re planning your first visit or returning to chase your favorite loop, the brochure lays it all out for you.

Inside, you’ll find:

  • Trail options for every rider — from easy spins to technical challenges for experienced riders
  • Suggested loops that maximize flow and minimize road miles
  • Clear navigation tips to help you ride more and worry less

Coopers Gap is especially loved by confident intermediate riders looking for an all-day adventure. The climbs are tough but fair, the descents are rewarding, and the loop possibilities are nearly endless.

Ride More, Stress Less

One of the standout features of Coopers Gap is how rider-friendly it is—without losing that wild, backcountry feel. With nearby forest roads always within reach, you’ve got peace of mind while still feeling fully immersed in the rugged beauty of Rothrock.

It’s the perfect balance: remote, but not overwhelming. Challenging, but always rideable.

Refuel, Refresh, and Ride Again

Of course, no great ride ends at the trailhead.

The brochure also connects you with the local spots that keep your adventure going. Grab a bite, cool down with a drink, or celebrate a ride well done at nearby restaurants and cafes in the Juniata River Valley.

Need gear, a quick tune-up, or local trail insight? Be sure to stop by Two Brothers Bicycle Company—your go-to hub for bikes, service, and everything you need to hit the trails with confidence.

Looking to sharpen your skills before (or after) you ride? Head over to the SteelWorx Pump Track, a fun and fast-paced spot to build technique, test your flow, and keep the stoke going.

Start Your Coopers Gap Adventure

Whether you’re chasing miles, mastering climbs, or just soaking in the rhythm of the trail, Coopers Gap offers a mountain biking experience that’s as rewarding as it is unforgettable.

Check out the new brochure, plan your route, and see for yourself why riders keep coming back to this Rothrock classic.

Because here, it’s not just about the ride—it’s about finding your flow.

 

Juniata River Canal Driving Trail

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New Juniata River Canal Driving Trail Unveiled: A Journey Through Time and Nature Along the Juniata River
125-mile scenic trail highlights canal-era heritage across six counties
LEWISTOWN — History and nature lovers have a new reason to explore Central Pennsylvania with the launch of the Juniata River Canal Driving Trail, a self-guided, 125-mile scenic route that winds through six counties along the Juniata River. This immersive trail showcases the legacy of one of America’s most remarkable engineering feats—the Pennsylvania Mainline Canal system—and invites travelers to experience the past while enjoying the beauty of the present.
Developed through a collaboration between local visitor bureaus and historical societies, the self-guided trail features more than a dozen heritage stops that span from the 1789 Clarks Ferry Tavern near Duncannon to the Allegheny Ridge in Portage. Along the way, visitors can explore a fascinating mix of well-preserved and timeworn canal landmarks, including:
• Historic lock keeper’s homes and canal taverns
• Canal boat ride experience
• Colorful murals and interpretive signage
• Museums filled with canal-era artifacts
• Parks and riverside walking trails
• Remnants of locks and aqueducts hidden in the landscape
Whether you’re following the footsteps of 19th-century canal builders or simply soaking in the serene river valley views, every mile of the trail tells a story of ambition, ingenuity, and the communities that once thrived on canal commerce.
“The Pennsylvania Mainline Canal Driving Trail is more than a history lesson—it’s an invitation to slow down and explore,” said Jenny Landis, executive director of the Juniata River Valley Visitors Bureau. “We designed this experience to appeal to travelers who love heritage tourism but also want to get outdoors and discover the unique natural beauty of the Juniata River corridor.”
The trail is perfect for a weekend road trip or multi-day exploration, with plenty of opportunities to hike, picnic, paddle, or just sit and imagine canal boats gliding past more than a century ago. Whether you’re navigating by GPS or following printed guides available through partnering organizations, the trail encourages both planned visits and spontaneous detours.
From preserved lock structures and reconstructed canal boats to ruins that whisper stories of a bygone era, the Pennsylvania Mainline Canal Driving Trail bridges history and adventure—making it a must-see destination for curious travelers of all ages.
View the trail online at juniatarivercanaltour.com.

Outdoor Winter Activities

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Outdoor Winter Adventures in the Juniata River Valley

When winter arrives in the Juniata River Valley, those who love the snow and the cold will have plenty to keep them occupied. Here are nine awesome ideas for epic winter activities for your JRV winter bucket list.

  1. Cross-Country Skiing– For those who enjoy the peace and tranquility of cross-country skiing, there are plenty of trails in our state parks that become winter wonderlands including Greenwood Furnace State Park, Reeds Gap State Park, and Poe Valley State Park.

 

  1. Snowmobiling– Groomed trails through rolling landscapes and dense forests make this part of Pennsylvania a great place for sledders. Our state parks and state forests offer hundreds of miles of trails including almost 200 miles of trails in Rothrock State Forest and Bald Eagle State Forest boasts 250 miles of roads and trails. Greenwood Furnace State Park, Poe Valley State Park and Poe Paddy State Park all offer joint-use trails for you to kick up some snow this winter.

 

  1. Mountain Biking– Cooper’s Gap is 27 miles of seamless non-stop singletrack trails that really shines when there is a couple of inches of powdery snow covering the trails making for a quintessential winter ride. The climb up the mountain on Pigpile Trail affords a stunning vista overlooking Big Valley.

 

  1. Ice Fishing-The six-acre Greenwood Lake at Greenwood Furnace State Park is regularly stocked with trout and the popular 25-acre Poe Lake at Poe Valley State Park is great fishing for trout, pickerel, perch, and catfish. Ice thickness is not monitored at either lake. Fishermen are encouraged to test ice thickness with an auger before recreating. Four inches of solid ice is the minimum recommended thickness for a single person.

 

  1. Disc Golf– Mostly seen as a summertime sport, disc golf can also be fun in winter. Walking from hole to hole lets players savor the beauty of winter, especially the glistening lake at Faylor Lake Disc Golf Park in Beaver Springs. While winter play may not be as competitive as summer, now is the time to just enjoy the game.

 

  1. Carriage/Sleigh Rides– Surprise your valentine with a romantic ride through the postcard-worthy countryside of Big Valley with Dayze Gone Bye Carriage Rides. Book a horse-drawn carriage ride or sleigh ride (weather dependent) for a beautiful ride along snow-dusted trails or fields.

 

  1. Ice Skating– Glide across the glimmering and picturesque Greenwood Lake at Greenwood Furnace State Park. Natural ice may not be as smooth as an ice rink, but the view in the park is spectacular. Before venturing onto the ice, make sure the ice is at least 4” thick for a single skater and 7” thick for a small group.

 

  1. Bird Watching– From nature preserves, rivers, lakes, and mountains, to your own backyard, winter is an opportune time for birdwatching in Central PA. You can spot species that hang around all year like blue jays, cardinals, chickadees, and juncos. You don’t even have to leave home! Place a bird feeder in your backyard and keep a log of the types of birds that visit!

 

  1. Hiking-There are many beautiful hiking trails in the Juniata River Valley, and you don’t have to wait for summer to get outside and enjoy them. Our state parks have many trail systems to choose from including Greenwood Furnace State Park, Reeds Gap State Park, Poe Valley State Park, Poe Paddy State Park, and Alan Seeger Natural Area. Bundle up and head for a brisk walk at Stone Mountain Hawk Watch and you will be rewarded with stunning views of the valleys from the bird watching platform. For beginners, try the S.H. Rothermel Walking Trail that starts at Victory Park in Lewistown or the trail at Lewistown Narrows Canal Park that stretches to the fishing access area in the Narrows.

 

 

Valley Vistas

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Photo by Stuck on the Go at Thousand Steps

Kishacoquillas Valley (Big Valley) is home to some of the most breathtaking views in the Juniata River Valley, and we’ve rounded up six spectacular vistas that showcase the region’s rolling farmland, rugged ridgelines, and wide-open skies. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or simply chasing a picture-perfect overlook, these stops offer unforgettable perspectives of one of Pennsylvania’s most beautiful landscapes. Dive in and discover where your next adventure begins.

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!