Shade Gap, Orbisonia area...things to see and do? (Pine Grove: 2009, to rent)

[dmt172]

Hi. We are planning our first visit to the Shade Gap area on the weekend of November 13-15, 2009. We have never been to this area, and are looking for some things we could do together while we are there. We love to hike, site-see, go to craft shows and antique shops, etc. Can anyone recommend any nice restaurants or bars, any must-visit attractions or events, any hiking trails, any anything?

I greatly appreciate any information regarding this area! Thanks so much!

[ki0eh]

The big attraction in the Twin Cities (ha!) of Orbisonia and Rockhill Furnace is the narrow gauge steam East Broad Top Railroad. It won't be running then, but their area links might help: East Broad Top Railroad

This is nearby: Standing Stone Trail Highlights We have often called this part of the SST the #1 hike in PA: Thousand Steps - Standing Stone Trail @ PA Hikes.com

Be aware that it's hunting season - the big firepower (rifle bear season) won't be out until a week after your visit, but wearing an orange hat is actually required on some PA public land Nov 15-Dec 15.

Shade Gap itself is chiefly notable for having its wastewater plant in the middle of town, where most communities have something like a Civil War soldier statue. The surrounding countryside is beautiful but capital-A Attractions are few.

[Gerania]

Cowans Gap State Park is just down the road if you're looking for something a little less strenuous.

Pennsylvania State Parks - Cowans Gap - PA DCNR

Trough Creek SP is to the west along Rt. 994.

Pennsylvania State Parks - Trough Creek - PA DCNR

St. Mary's Covered Bridge is a few miles north of Shade Gap on Covered Bridge Rd., just off of Rt. 522 by St. Mary's cemetery.

[dmt172]

Thank you so much ki0eh and Gerania for the information! I was aware that the Shade Gap area is rather remote, but thought there may be some things we should check out while we are there. We are very much looking forward to our weekend away.

[Gerania]

A couple of years ago I stayed at Pine Grove Furnace, visited Caledonia SP and Kings Gap. It is such a beautiful area! I hope to get back there someday. Enjoy your weekend.

[ki0eh]

Trough Creek is a beautiful park - I actually like it better than Ricketts Glen.

Kind of wondering how you wound up going to Shade Gap of all places...

[dmt172]

Actually, my boyfriend and I had hoped to rent a cabin at a campground, but our schedules didn't work out during the camping season. We recently came across an ad for a private cabin rental- which to us, seemed to offer the peace and quiet (not to mention privacy) that we were seeking. We're very much looking forward to our weekend away in the country.

[ki0eh]

Hope y'uns have a great time!

An idea for next time: In the past, many PA State Park cabins have been available year round, at such locations as Pennsylvania State Parks - Hills Creek - PA DCNR - however there may now be some cutbacks on time of year operated due to budget issues.