By Brad Wyland, Waterville Hotel
The Waterville Hotel is located in the charming town of Waterville, Lycoming County, in the Pine Creek Valley and PA Grand Canyon landscape of the Pennsylvania Wilds. Nestled in the scenic Tiadaghton State Forest, this historic restaurant offers a delightful eating, drinking, and even overnight accommodation experience in Pennsylvania’s most picturesque setting. You can find it on your journey up Route 44 as you head to your next adventure.
This long-standing keystone in the northern part of the PA Wilds exudes a cozy and rustic charm that perfectly complements its natural surroundings. The interior features a combination of warm lighting, wooden accents, and comfortable seating, creating a welcoming and relaxed atmosphere.
Passionate new owners, celebrating 200 years!
Local residents Jason McConnell and Vanessa Brown took over as new owners of The Waterville Hotel (formerly The Waterville Tavern) in 2023, along with business partner Brad Wyland. The beloved community landmark is close to their hearts, and they’re honored to be part of its long history. The Waterville Hotel has been a staple in the community.
Image: Owners Jason McConnell, Vanessa Brown, and Brad Wyland
Now in its 200th year as a pillar in the Waterville community, the Hotel is located at the crossroads of Route 44 and Little Pine Creek Road in the heart of the Pine Creek Valley. It’s a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts who come to fish, hunt, and explore the surrounding area. The Hotel has served as a gathering place for generations of visitors and locals, providing a comfortable place to stay, as well as dine and enjoy the company of old friends and make new ones.
Nowadays, the Waterville Hotel is now one of the most popular destinations in the Pine Creek Valley for people looking to get back to nature – whether it’s fishing, boating or bicycling. In cooler months, the activities switch to hunting, snowshoeing and snowmobiling – making The Waterville Hotel a year-round attraction.
The couple is excited to carry on a family legacy as well. Jason’s Great Aunt and Uncle Jess and William Smith operated the hotel from 1933-1945. They’ve brought their own unique vision to the table. With a passion for community and a commitment to providing exceptional service, they are dedicated to upholding the legacy of the hotel and continuing to make it a focal point of the community for many years to come.
Jason and Vanessa also are longtime owners of McConnell’s General Store, right across the parking lot from the Hotel.
“We are honored to be part of such an iconic establishment and rich history in our family. The hotel has a special place in the hearts of so many in our community, and we are excited to carry on the tradition of providing a warm, inviting atmosphere and delicious food for all who visit.”
Home base for adventures
Maybe the hardest part of your adventure getaway to the Waterville Hotel is simply deciding how many fun activities to fit into your day! Biking, hiking, kayaking, scouting wildlife, fly fishing, or just sitting on the porch with a cold beverage… You have access to all of it and more from your room.
Waterville serves as an ideal gateway to explore the magnificent Pine Creek Gorge, also known as the “Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania.” This awe-inspiring natural wonder stretches for 47 miles, offering visitors a paradise for hiking, biking, and photography. Just a few steps from my room I’m on the Pine Creek Rail Trail, a scenic 62-mile pathway that follows the course of Pine Creek, providing unparalleled views of the gorge and its vibrant foliage.
Image: The Pine Creek Rail Trail. Photo credit Allison Schanbacher.
Known for its excellent fishing opportunities, Waterville sits at the confluence of Pine Creek and Little Pine Creek, which is renowned for its abundance of trout. Cast your line into the clear waters and try your luck at catching the prized native trout species, including brown, rainbow, and brook trout. For a more secluded fishing experience, venture out to nearby streams and tributaries, such as Cedar Run or Slate Run, which are equally rewarding.
Waterville is a gateway to numerous state parks and natural areas that offer thrilling outdoor adventures. Explore Tiadaghton State Forest, where you can indulge in activities like mountain biking, horseback riding, and bird watching. For the water enthusiasts, floating and kayaking on Pine Creek provide a serene way to enjoy the amazing surroundings and wildlife.
Hiking enthusiasts will be spoilt for choice in Waterville. The area boasts an extensive network of trails that cater to all skill levels. Lace up your boots and embark on the Turkey Path Trail, a challenging but rewarding hike that winds through a steep gorge, offering breathtaking views of waterfalls and lush greenery. For a more leisurely stroll, the Little Bear Creek Trail provides a serene ambiance, meandering through forests and meadows.
Immerse yourself in the tranquility of Waterville by spending a night under the stars. Cherry Springs State Park, an internationally designated Dark Sky Park, is about an hour away and offers velvety black skies sprinkled with sparkling stars. Little Pine State Park is nearby the Hotel as well, giving you a chance to set up camp among the wilderness and enjoy a cozy campfire.
Image: Cherry Springs State Park. Photo credit Curt Weinholder.
Dine like a local
Whether you’re visiting for a casual lunch or dinner to refuel from your day, the Hotel menu never disappoints. Feel like taking in the surroundings as you enjoy your favorite drink? The outdoor bar and patio provide its own unique experience full of fresh air, friends, and even the occasional story about the one that got away.
The restaurant is known for its appetizing and tasty American cuisine, showcasing both traditional and innovative dishes. From juicy burgers and sandwiches to hearty steaks and seafood, there’s a diverse range of options to suit every palate. The amazing staff uses locally sourced ingredients whenever possible, ensuring freshness and supporting the community.
Some must-try dishes at The Waterville Hotel include The Original Mountain Burger and The Porky, two old classics that visitors to the Hotel remember fondly. A local IPA goes perfectly with them. Vegetarian diners aren’t left out of the fun either. Thoughtfully crafted vegetarian dishes ensure that everyone has something tasty to choose from. And don’t forget the special Sawdust seasoning, a Waterville Hotel favorite!
Fresh air and beautiful views
During the warmer months, the Hotel offers outdoor seating. You can dine on the charming patio, surrounded by nature and the beautiful scenery of the Tiadaghton State Forest. It’s a perfect spot to enjoy your meal while soaking in the fresh air and the sounds of the Valley.
Plan your visit
The Waterville Hotel offers a delightful experience in a picturesque setting. With its cozy ambiance, delicious cuisine, and friendly service, it’s a must-visit destination for locals and tourists alike.
Whether you’re stopping by for a quick bite or planning an extended stay the Hotel promises a memorable and satisfying experience for all.
See the menu, book a room, check out upcoming events, or plan your trip at TheWatervilleHotel.com.
About the author, Brad Wyland:
Having grown up spending many days and weekends at his family cabin in Ramsey, Brad Wyland is very familiar with what makes the Pine Creek Valley and Waterville such a special place. While he currently resides in Pittsburgh, the frequency of visits to Pine Creek to get away from his day job in the enterprise software world ultimately led him to a love of the Waterville Hotel and his friendship with Jason McConnell and Vanessa Brown. Growing up working in his father’s restaurants and catering business, as well as time working in a restaurant in college, is what ultimately nurtured his love for the business. Life is meant to have meaning, seeing the special place the Hotel has become and what it means to the people he meets on a regular basis has certainly shown him a glimpse into that meaning.
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The Pennsylvania Wilds is home to more than 2 million acres of public land, 50 state game lands, 29 state parks, 8 state forests, 2 National Wild & Scenic Rivers, abundant wildlife, hundreds of miles of land and water trails, some of the darkest skies in the country, and the largest elk herd in the northeast.
The PA Wilds team is grateful to share the many stories of this region through the words and images of our talented guest contributors.