Known for its stunning scenery, exceptional recreational activities, and rich history, the Pine Creek Gorge, also known as the Pennsylvania Grand Canyon, is located in the Potter-Tioga region. Potter-Tioga encompasses two counties and was recently voted Best Outdoor Destination by New World Report. And what better way to get acquainted with this stunning place than by covered wagon?
Sit back and enjoy traveling through this unique and captivating part of Pennsylvania on the Pine Creek Rail Trail along the canyon floor.
Experience an area time has forgotten from the serenity of a horse-drawn wagon. Marvel at how Pine Creek has been carving its way through the Allegheny Plateau for thousands of years, forming steep canyon walls and majestic waterfalls. At a depth of almost 1500 feet, the canyon floor is home to diverse plants, dense forests, and wildlife as nature intended.
Ole Covered Wagon Tours
Located in Wellsboro, PA, Ole Covered Wagon Tours has provided passengers with up close and personal tours of the canyon floor for many years. When the business became available 12 years ago, it was only natural that the owner, Brad Confer, and his family take over the tours. After all, the trail access begins at the farm that has been in their family since 1903. The Ole Covered Wagon Tours has become a beloved family business. And their family wants to make sure your family has the best time possible visiting the Gorge.
According to Confer, it is common to see bears, deer, eagles, otters, and various waterfowl when visiting the area.
The wagons are suitable for the whole family or any large group. They have padded seating and a canvas top covering the entire wagon to keep everyone safe from the elements. A skilled team of Belgian and Percheron horses winds you through the canyon. Each wagon holds up to 30 guests and includes two wagons for a trip. Private tours are available upon request.
A typical tour runs two times a day, spring, summer, and fall, lasting approximately two hours. The trail is an old railroad bed, and you quickly become immersed in the natural beauty on all sides. Your horseman will weave the rich history, exciting folklore, and Pennsylvania’s Grand Canyon tales into an unforgettable experience. Visitors often remark on how entertaining and informative the guides are. Ole Covered Wagon Tours takes pride in making your visit the best it can be, and while you arrive as strangers, you leave as friends.
The Ole Covered Wagon Tours offers a waterfall ride in spring and summer. The trip averages three and one-half hours and can occasionally run up to four hours, depending on the guests’ interests. You will visit Little Four Miles Falls at the halfway point, and your guide provides plenty of time to get pictures, stretch your legs, and explore the beautiful area.
Recently added to the Tours are a chuck wagon tour and primitive camping suitable for equine and bike/walking travelers. Visit their Facebook page for more information regarding equine camping.
The Pine Creek Rail Trail offers visitors other opportunities to explore the area. Walking, biking, and horseback riding are available year-round, with snowshoeing and cross-country skiing being wintertime activities. However, no motored vehicles are permitted. Backpack camping is available in the gorge.
Visit Potter-Tioga
When you visit the Pennsylvania Grand Canyon, you won’t be disappointed. Whether camping, star gazing, hiking, fishing, or simply enjoying the view from one of the many scenic overlooks, you will be amazed at what your eyes behold. You may, however, decide you need more time to take in all there is to do and plan your return visit before you even leave.
With accommodations to meet every need, you will find just the right place to lay your head at night. Camping is available at the state parks and private campgrounds, hotels are handy for quick trips, and cabins always make great memories of sitting around a campfire under a star-filled sky.
The Potter-Tioga area offers something for everyone. Not only is it an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise, but it is also home to charming towns providing many different and exciting activities. See a movie in one of three vintage movie theaters, golf at one of three award-winning courses, or take in a play or a live concert. Check out one of the many exciting events throughout the year, such as Wellsboro’s PA State Laurel Festival in June, Galeton’s annual Red Suspenders weekend in July, and The Endless Mountain Music Festival in July and August, which encompasses 17 concerts over 17 days.
For more information on everything to see and do in the Potter-Tioga region, visit https://www.visitpottertioga.com/events/ and the article The PA Grand Canyon Offers History Arts and Recreation for other exciting places to visit in the Potter-Tioga area. Plus, don’t forget to book your tour for the Ole Covered Wagon Tour today.
