Category: Outdoors

Book Signing with Tory Talks Trails

Posted on by admin

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

Posted on by admin

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

Posted on by admin

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.

 

Outdoor Winter Activities

Posted on by admin

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

Posted on by admin

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!

Holiday Break Fun: Kid-Friendly Activites in the JRV

Posted on by admin

Holiday Break Fun: Kid-Friendly Activities in the Juniata River Valley

When school is out and the excitement of the holidays is in full swing, parents everywhere are looking for ways to keep the kids active, happy, and off their screens (at least for a little while!). Fortunately, the Juniata River Valley offers plenty of family-friendly adventures perfect for making memories throughout the holiday break or on a rainy day. Here are some great ideas to fill those long winter days:

  1. Visit LoveTwo Farm

Bundle up and take the kids to LoveTwo Farm to meet the animals. From fuzzy farm friends to hands-on moments that spark curiosity, it’s a wholesome outing the whole family can enjoy.

  1. Hit the Ice at Carousel Skating Rink

Whether your child is steady on roller skates or just learning, the Carousel Skating Rink is a festive, high-energy place to burn off some holiday excitement.

  1. Catch a Movie at Miller Cinema 6

Slow down with a cozy afternoon at Miller Cinema 6. With kid-friendly blockbusters and popcorn, it’s the perfect way to unwind between holiday gatherings.

  1. Get Creative at The Busy Brush

Let imaginations run wild at The Busy Brush in downtown Lewistown. Kids can paint, craft, and create something completely their own—ideal for a snowy day or when you need an indoor activity.

  1. Bowl a Strike at Lewistown Lanes

Challenge the kids to a friendly bowling match! Lewistown Lanes offers a fun, active outing that works for all ages—and it’s a great way to spend an afternoon or evening together.

  1. Explore Reeds Gap State Park

If the weather is mild, head outdoors for a winter walk at Reeds Gap State Park. Kids will love playing in the crisp air, exploring trails, and searching for wildlife footprints in the snow.

  1. Visit The Crooked Shelf Bookshop or Local Libraries

Warm up with a good book! Stop in at The Crooked Shelf Bookshop for a cozy browsing experience or check out story times and holiday activities at the Juniata River Valley’s local libraries.

  1. Treat the Kids to Ice Cream

Yes—ice cream in winter is absolutely a thing! Surprise the kids with a sweet treat from your favorite local ice cream shop. It’s the perfect reward after a day of fun.

  1. Pony Play Day at Promise Ranch Ministries

For animal-loving kids, Pony Play Day is a magical experience. Let them get up close with gentle ponies and enjoy hands-on activities. Be sure to check Promise Ranch Ministries’ Facebook page for upcoming dates.

  1. Have an Adventure with the Feathered Frolic Scavenger Hunt

Grab the kids and join the Feathered Frolic Scavenger Hunt! This fun, interactive activity gets families exploring the area to find 12 of the 51 Wild Geese statues You may even discover hidden gems along the way.

With so many things to see and do, holiday break in the Juniata River Valley is full of opportunities for family fun. Whether you’re looking to get creative, burn some energy, or simply enjoy time together, these activities will help make the season joyful, memorable, and stress-free.

Your Juniata River Valley Summer Bucket List: 10 Must-Do Adventures

Posted on by admin

Your Juniata River Valley Summer Bucket List: 10 Must-Do Adventures

Summer is in full swing in the Juniata River Valley, and there’s no better time to unplug, slow down, and soak in everything our beautiful region has to offer. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventure, small-town charm, or simply a relaxing afternoon in the sun, we’ve rounded up the Top 10 things you’ve got to do before summer fades away.

From floating down the river to catching movies under the stars, here’s how to make the most of summer in Mifflin and Juniata Counties:

  1. Float Down the Juniata River

One of the best ways to cool off and take in the natural beauty of the region is by floating the Juniata River. Whether you’re in a kayak, canoe, or inner tube, the peaceful flow and scenic surroundings make for an unforgettable summer day. Need to rent a kayak? Contact Appalachian Kayak for rentals and livery service. Bonus points if you pack a cooler and make a day of it!

  1. Catch a Movie at the Midway Drive-In Theater

Nothing says summer nostalgia like the drive-in. The Midway Drive-In Theater brings families, couples, and movie lovers together for double features, classic popcorn, and that magical twilight atmosphere. It’s a summer staple you can’t skip. Follow their Facebook page for the weekly movie announcements.

  1. Enjoy Outdoor Music at Local Wineries & Breweries & Distilleries

Live music, locally crafted wine or beer, and views of the countryside? Yes, please! Many of our wineries and breweries host regular outdoor concerts throughout the summer—so bring a lawn chair, grab a drink, and dance the night away under the stars.

  1. Experience “Sale Day” in Big Valley

Every Wednesday, the Big Valley comes alive with vendors, farmers, and bargain hunters. Known as “Sale Day,” this weekly tradition includes sprawling flea markets, the Belleville Livestock Auction, and Amish-made goodies you won’t find anywhere else. It’s a slice of rural Pennsylvania you have to experience. Check out our “Wednesdays in Big Valley” tour for ideas.

  1. Pack a Picnic and Head to the Park

There’s nothing like a picnic in the park on a sunny day. Visit local favorites like Malta Park in Granville, Kish Park in Lewistown, or Reeds Gap State Park in New Lancaster Valley, for shade, playgrounds, and wide-open spaces to spread out and relax.

  1. Swim at Our Community Pools

When the heat hits, take the plunge at one of our three community pools—located in Burnham, Lewistown, and Mifflin. They’re perfect for cooling off, enjoying family time, or squeezing in a little poolside relaxation.

  1. Explore the Farmer’s Markets and Greenhouses

From fresh-picked produce to homemade baked goods and vibrant flowers, our area’s farmers’ markets and greenhouses offer a taste of summer’s best. Stock up for your next picnic or just enjoy the colorful atmosphere and friendly faces. Check out our Farmer’s Market list and our Bountiful Blooms list.

  1. Go Fishing in the River or Mountain Streams

Whether you’re after a peaceful morning with a fly rod or casting a line for bass in the Juniata River, fishing in our region is second to none. You’ll find plenty of great spots to set up and let nature do the rest. Learn more about our area fisheries in our Waterways guide.

  1. Participate in Flight School

Have you heard about Flight School? It’s a fun (and delicious) way to explore the area—sip your way through flights of chicken wings, wine, beer, coffee, spirits, or even ice cream at participating businesses. Collect points towards earning your wings. It’s a tasty adventure you won’t want to miss. Sign up here for Flight School.

  1. Hit Up the Carnivals and County Fairs

Nothing brings out the magic of summer like a small-town fair. Enjoy funnel cakes, Ferris wheels, live entertainment, and old-fashioned fun at our many local carnivals and fairs. It’s the perfect way to wrap up a day. Look for our monthly calendar of events for a list of upcoming events.

Ready to Make the Most of Summer?

The Juniata River Valley is full of hidden gems and summer traditions waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re here for a weekend or a lifelong local, this bucket list is your guide to squeezing every drop out of summer.

So go ahead—exit the fast lane, slow down, and dive into the joys of summer in the Juniata River Valley.

 

Rothrock Week 2025

Posted on by admin
rowthrock-10×3-print

Celebrate Rothrock Week with Pride—and a Free Bumper Sticker!

LEWISTOWN — The Juniata River Valley Visitors Bureau is proud to kick off Rothrock Week, a celebration honoring our hometown hero Dr. Joseph T. Rothrock, the Father of Forestry in Pennsylvania. Born and raised in McVeytown, Dr. Rothrock’s influence on forest conservation is still felt today throughout the state—and especially in the scenic beauty of Rothrock State Forest, named in his honor.

To celebrate, the visitors bureau designed a special edition bumper sticker that proudly displays the correct Mifflin County pronunciation of “Rothrock”—“Row-throck,” not “Raw-throck” like some folks might say.

“It’s a fun and local way to show off both your environmental pride and your Mifflin County roots,” said Jenny Landis, executive director of the Juniata River Valley Visitors Bureau.

These free bumper stickers will be available for pickup at the visitors bureau office, just in time for Earth Day (Tuesday) and Arbor Day (Friday), the perfect time to honor Dr. Rothrock’s conservation legacy and recognize the natural assets we treasure here in the Juniata River Valley.

Rothrock Week is a great opportunity to explore the outdoors, plant a tree, or simply reflect on the importance of preserving our forests.

“Swing by, grab a sticker, and help us spread the word the Mifflin County way—it’s “Row-throck,” and we’re sticking to it!,” said Landis.

For more information or to pick up your bumper sticker, visit the office at 1 W. Market St., Lewistown or call (717) 248-6713.

Valley Vistas

Valley Vistas

Posted on by 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!

So. J-Co. - South Juniata County

So. J-Co. – South Juniata County

Posted on by Ryan Cherry

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.