Northern Tier Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, and local culture in Northern Tier, Pennsylvania. Plan your trip with our comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Northern Tier

Located in the Mid-Atlantic region of the United States, Northern Tier in Pennsylvania offers breathtaking natural landscapes and rich cultural experiences. The region is known for its stunning scenery, outdoor recreational activities and historical significance.

In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll take a closer look at what Northern Tier has to offer, including top places to visit, cultural attractions, outdoor adventures, and local cuisine. Whether you’re planning a one-day trip or an extended vacation, this guide covers everything you need to know about exploring Northern Tier.

List of Places to Visit in Northern Tier

Northern Tier boasts a variety of attractions, from historical landmarks and museums to outdoor activities and scenic views. Here is a list of the top places to visit in Northern Tier:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Pennsylvania Grand Canyon Visit Pennsylvania Grand Canyon to marvel at the stunning landscape and impressive views. There are various walking and hiking trails for visitors of all abilities, and several outfitters that offer guided tours and rentals.

  • Tioga Central Railroad Experience a piece of history by taking a ride on the Tioga Central Railroad, which offers scenic tours through the mountains. The train is composed of restored vintage railcars from the early 1900s, and the route takes you through charming towns and scenic countryside.

  • Hornell Erie Depot Museum The Hornell Erie Depot Museum tells the story of the Erie Railroad and the city of Hornell. Visitors can view a range of railroad artifacts and exhibits, including vintage equipment and photographs.

Natural Attractions of Northern Tier: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Cherry Springs State Park Located in Potter County, Cherry Springs State Park is known for its dark skies and offers prime stargazing opportunities. Visitors can also explore the park’s hiking trails and natural beauty.

  • Pine Creek Gorge Popularly known as Pennsylvania Grand Canyon, Pine Creek Gorge is a natural wonder with breathtaking views and remarkable hiking trails. At the canyon, visitors can climb on observation decks to admire the panoramic views and enjoy the picturesque sunsets.

  • Leonard Harrison State Park Leonard Harrison State Park is the most accessible spot to overlook the Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania. You can explore the park’s hiking trails, camping grounds, volleyball and basketball facilities, and enjoy picnicking.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Northern Tier

Hiking and biking enthusiasts will find Northern Tier a paradise with a variety of well-maintained trails and scenic routes. Here are some of the best hiking and biking routes in Northern Tier:

  • Pine Creek Rail Trail The 62-mile Pine Creek Rail Trail offers a scenic route through Pine Creek Gorge for walkers, runners, and cyclists alike. The trail runs from Wellsboro Junction to Jersey Shore.

  • The Mid State Trail The Mid State Trail follows a ridge of the Appalachian Mountains for over 327 miles across Pennsylvania. The trail passes through various state parks, forests, and historic sites.

Best Things to Do in Northern Tier: Activities and Tours

Aside from hiking, biking, and exploring the natural landscape of Northern Tier, there are several other exciting activities and tours to enjoy. Here are some of the best:

  • Fly Fishing Northern Tier is home to some of the best fly fishing in the United States. The various streams and waterways in the region offer ample opportunities to catch rainbow and brown trout.

  • Wine Tastings With several wineries and vineyards in the area, Northern Tier is a great place to enjoy wine tasting tours and sample local wines.

Week-Long Itinerary for Northern Tier

For those who want to explore Northern Tier for a full week, here’s a sample itinerary:

Day 1: Arrival and Overnight in Wellsboro Day 2: Hiking and Biking at Pine Creek Gorge Day 3: Visit Cherry Springs State Park for Stargazing Day 4: Tioga Central Railroad ride and visit Hornell Erie Depot Museum Day 5: Eastern Home and Garden Tour and Mansfield University Day 6: Explore Leonard Harrison State Park and Barrett Township Day 7: Winery Tour and Departure

Food and Drink Scene of Northern Tier

Northern Tier has a rich culinary history, with a variety of traditional dishes and local produce. Here are some must-try dishes and beverages in the region:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Potato Filling A traditional holiday dish in Northern Tier, potato filling is a mix of mashed potatoes, bread, onions, and celery.

  • Pierogies Pierogies are a staple in Northern Tier and can be found on many menus throughout the area. These Polish dumplings are typically filled with potatoes and cheese or sauerkraut.

Local Beverages

  • Yard Owl Brewery Yard Owl Brewery is a popular local brewery that offers a range of unique craft beers. The brewery is located in East Elmira and has a taproom where you can taste the beers.

  • Winery at Hunters Valley The Winery at Hunters Valley offers a range of award-winning wines with stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Visitors can take a tour of the vineyards and taste the wines.

Where to Stay in Northern Tier: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are several options for accommodation in Northern Tier, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. Here are some of the best options:

  • Penn Wells Hotel Located in the heart of Wellsboro, the Penn Wells Hotel is a historic property that offers modern amenities and pleasant service.

  • Bear Mountain Lodge The Bear Mountain Lodge offers a unique and luxurious wilderness experience. As the name suggests, the lodge is located on a mountain and provides scenic views of the surrounding nature.

What to Buy in Northern Tier: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Here are some of the best souvenirs and local products to bring home from Northern Tier:

  • Maple Syrup Northern Tier is known for its maple syrup production, and you can find several local maple syrup producers in the area.

  • Handmade Soaps There are several businesses that produce handmade soaps in Northern Tier, using local ingredients like goat milk and honey.

Local Culture and Customs of Northern Tier

Northern Tier is home to a rich and proud culture, shaped by both Native American and European heritage. Local customs include activities like apple butter making, corn shucking bees, and Pennsylvania Dutch-style cooking.

Best Time to Visit Northern Tier

The best time to visit Northern Tier is between May and October when the weather is pleasant and the natural scenery is green and lush. Fall is particularly scenic with vivid colors during September and October.

Do’s and Don’ts of Northern Tier

Do:

  • Respect the natural environment and wildlife
  • Take advantage of outdoor recreational activities
  • Try local cuisine and beverages
  • Learn about the region’s history and culture

Don’t:

  • Litter or leave trash in the outdoors
  • Disturb wild animals
  • Ignore safety warnings and regulations
  • Disrespect local customs and traditions

Safety and Health

Safety in Northern Tier

Northern Tier is generally safe, but always be aware of your surroundings and take necessary precautions when exploring the outdoors. Be prepared for wildlife encounters and bring necessary gear for emergencies.

Health in Northern Tier

Northern Tier has a decent healthcare infrastructure, but it’s best to take all necessary precautions against bug bites, ticks, and other potential health hazards.

Getting to Northern Tier: Transportation Options and Logistics

Getting to Northern Tier is easy with several transportation options available.

Airports Near Northern Tier

The closest airports to Northern Tier are the Elmira Corning Regional Airport and Williamsport Regional Airport.

Bus Stations Near Northern Tier

Northern Tier is well-connected through several bus routes, with Greyhound operating from Elmira, NY, and Williamsport, PA.

Other Options

Northern Tier can be accessed through major highways, including I-86 and I-81.

How to Get Around in Northern Tier

The best way to get around Northern Tier is by car, bike, or foot. Car rentals are available, and several bike rental shops in the region provide a range of bikes for exploring.

Where to Go Next from Northern Tier: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re interested in exploring the nearby areas around Northern Tier, here are some great options:

  • Corning, NY Located just over the state line from Pennsylvania, Corning is a charming small town renowned for its glass production and museums.

  • Watkins Glen, NY Watkins Glen is home to a scenic state park that boasts picturesque waterfalls and hiking trails.

Conclusion

Northern Tier is a remarkable destination filled with natural beauty and historic charm. From hiking trails to cultural attractions, the region offers a unique and exciting travel experience for visitors. Use this guide to plan your trip and explore all that Northern Tier has to offer.