The most romantic things to do in the PA Wilds

Gazing into the eyes of your sweetie might take your breath away, but the vistas throughout the PA Wilds are breathtaking, too! Get your heart racing with a trip more than 220 feet into the air when you walk out onto the Kinzua Skywalk at Kinzua Bridge State Park. A trip to Leonard Harrison State Park or Colton Point State Park will earn you fantastic views into the Pine Creek Valley and the PA Grand Canyon, one of the most frequently suggested romantic trips in the Wilds. Peering down from Hyner View State Park in Clinton County is also a treat, where your feelings can (literally) take flight… It’s known for being a prime hang gliding location!

Can’t figure out the best way to proclaim your love? Take a lesson from a bull elk! A visit to Elk Country and the forests and fields near Benezette can give you fantastic views of the largest wild elk herd in the northeast United States. The Elk Country Visitor Center can help provide info to make the most of your trip. The elk are most active at dawn and dusk, meaning that you can also pair your elk-viewing trip with the romantic sight of the sunrise or sunset.

Not feeling the love as much as you used to? Tell him to take a hike! No, really… a hike can provide those quiet moments together that you’ll remember for years to come. There are hiking trails of all difficulty levels throughout the PA Wilds, so you’re bound to find a hike that is right for your preference and ability. Lace up those hiking boots, come prepared with water and a map, and hit the trail to reconnect with your loved one.

Is there anything more romantic than cuddling up with your significant other under a blanket of stars? Gazing up at the night sky is a classic date, and the PA Wilds is lucky to have internationally recognized dark skies! Want some help pointing out the constellations? Cherry Springs State Park frequently has events for stargazing, making it even easier to plan that romantic (and educational) date in the PA Wilds.

Okay, so you might not have a tandem bike, and it’s not a good idea to perch your sweetheart on the handlebars of your bicycle. Still, bicycling will get your heart pumping and create memories with your loved one. Strap on a helmet and pack a lunch to make a day trip on many of the bicycle loops and trails throughout the PA Wilds! Many bike trails go straight by attractions, downtown centers and restaurants, so plan to make a few stops to catch your breath.

What could be better than holding hands and walking along the water? Many communities have dedicated paths along their waterways, such as Lock Haven, Clearfield, Williamsport and Warren. These riverwalks are also often close to downtown, so you’re never too far from a bite to eat or a locally owned movie theater.

In addition to movie theaters, there are also playhouses, music venues, museums and more dotted throughout the PA Wilds region. Check out the Millbrook Playhouse in Mill Hall (shown in this photo, with a youth performance of Annie), the Reitz Theater in DuBois, the CAST building in Clearfield, the Victoria Theater in Blossburg, the Sawmill Center for the Arts in Cook Forest, or the Deane Center for the Performing Arts in Wellsboro. Plus, many restaurants host musicians or open mic nights, and music festivals like Smoked Country Jam and the Endless Mountains Music Festival can get your toes tapping and provide the perfect background music for that date.

When it’s time to snuggle up for the night, the PA Wilds offers some amazing places to cuddle with your sweetheart. Tent camping spots and cabins can be rented in PA State Parks and Forests, or you can choose to “glamp” in cabins that are rentable through private businesses and families. Want all of the wilderness but none of the hassle? Outfitting companies like Creek Bottom Canvas can even set up your campsite for you, providing rentable tents and equipment.

Sitting side by side on a dock or in a boat, you and your sweetie can make some unforgettable memories while fishing in the PA Wilds. Especially if you are an outdoorsy couple, fishing allows for those quiet moments together while still enjoying the fresh air and peaceful waters. Even if you don’t catch anything at all, you’ll be able to brag that your loved one wasn’t “the one that got away.”

The traditional date of dinners and drinks is a classic for good reason! Check out the Wilds Cooperative of Pennsylvania directory to find WCO-member restaurants near you. You can also read our previous blogs highlighting some of the best wineries and breweries throughout the PA Wilds region, which are perfect for doing tastings and relaxing with the love of your life.