See the power of Mother Nature at Kinzua Bridge State Park

Pennsylvania’s Kinzua Bridge State Park is a little-known treasure in the Keystone State. The park is located in the remote Pennsylvania Wilds, about two hours from Buffalo, New York, and 3 hours from Pittsburgh. Kinzua Bridge State Park is relatively small at 339 acres, but what it lacks in size, it certainly makes up for in remarkable scenery.

Exploring Kinsua Bridge State Park

The park is home to the Kinzua Viaduct, or at least what is left of it. When the bridge was first built, the Viaduct was the highest and longest railway bridge in the world. Then, in 2003, a tornado ripped through the park’s gorge, snapping trees and leveling anything in its path, including a large portion of the Viaduct. The towers that fell have been left in place so visitors can see the ruins and the power of nature.

The park as we know it today opened in 2011 and features a skywalk on the portion of the bridge that was not destroyed. Visitors can expect incredible 360-degree views with a see-through floor on a portion of the bridge that provides quite the thrill, especially for those with a fear of heights! You can also hike down to the collapsed portion; however, climbing on the fallen portion is prohibited. There is also a picture-taking platform underneath the skywalk that gives an interesting perspective of the remaining support beams. Make sure to check out the overlook near the skywalk as well. It’s a short walk but gives visitors a tremendous view of the skywalk and gorge.

Kinzua Bridge State Park offers more than just the skywalk! The visitor center is definitely worth checking out. There are a variety of cool displays about the history of the region and park.

If you are looking to stretch your legs, you can take a hike on the 1.6-mile General Kane Trail. Hikers have a great chance at spotting wildlife, including white-tailed deer, turkeys, and maybe even a black bear. Remember to wear orange during hunting season; much of the park is open to hunting.

Visitors can also access the Knox & Kane Rail Trail from the park, which is great for hopping on your bike and going for a ride.

There is no bad time to visit the park, but there are certainly better times. We recommend visiting in October when the trees are changing color. The fall foliage in the Kinzua Gorge is spectacular and considered one of the best places for leaf-peeping in Pennsylvania.