Bucktail Scenic Byway

100 miles of PA beauty

Named for a regiment of rangers in the Civil War era - and today, known as Route 120, this designated Scenic Byway stretches 100 miles through the Sproul and Elk State Forests from the artsy college town of Lock Haven to Renovo (fuel up for gas here, Renovo is the last stop for many miles!) with beautiful views along the West Branch Susquehanna, on to the charming and historic town of Ridgway via Emporium and St. Marys.

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Straub Brewery

Located in St. Marys, PA, Straub Brewery is one of the oldest and most historic breweries in the United States, and is still owned and operated by its founding family, now into its sixth and seventh generations. Fodor’s Travel named Straub Brewery one of the “5 Best Places in America to Drink American Beer.”

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Sinnemahoning State Park and Wildlife Center

Unplug from devices and reconnect with nature, at the state-of-the-art Park Office and Wildlife Center at Sinnemahoning State Park. This LEED-certified green building introduces visitors to the Pennsylvania Wilds through family friendly exhibits and interpretive displays. Peer into an eagle’s nest, crawl through a bear’s cave or simply sit and enjoy a book, the Wildlife Center at Sinnemahoning State Park has something for everyone.

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Sproul State Forest

The largest in the state forest system, Sproul covers 305,450 acres, or slightly more than 476 square miles.

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Hyner Run and Hyner View State Parks

Explore the outdoors and take in the views within the West Branch Susquehanna Greenway! Hyner Run carves a small valley from the surrounding steep mountains, creating a natural haven for outdoor adventures. The park is entirely surrounded by Pennsylvania’s largest state forest, Sproul State Forest. Nearby Hyner View State Park offers one of the most popular scenic vistas in the entire Pennsylvania Wilds, attracting many for the spectacular view alone.

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Piper Aviation Museum

Did you know? Piper Aircraft were PA Wilds Made! At one point in history, Piper Aircraft Corporation was the world’s leading producer of general aviation aircraft. Originally located in Bradford (McKean County) the Piper Aircraft Corporation was moved to Lock Haven (Clinton County) in 1937. The company was well known for its "Cub" aircraft, and a series bearing Indian names such as Aztec, Cherokee, Cheyenne, Comanche, Navajo, and Pawnee. The factory was closed in 1984. Piper Aircraft Corporation grew to become the world’s leading producer of general aviation aircraft.

About Bucktail Scenic Byway

Seven state parks are within reach of the Bucktail Scenic Byway with access to hundreds of miles of remote hiking trails and many other outdoor recreational activities. This road trip is beautiful in any season, but when the foliage is out, your journey will be awash in spectacular colors. Use the Bucktail Scenic Byway to explore the Dark Skies and Elk Country Landscapes, or hook up with the Elk Scenic Drive at Renovo.

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