Rainy days don’t have to put a damper on your outdoor adventure—especially in the Raystown Lake Region! From misty forest paths to tranquil lake views, there’s a trail for every hiker looking to embrace the elements. With the right gear and a little extra caution, you can explore some of the region’s most scenic trails in a whole new light.

1) Old Logger’s Trail - Raystown LakeView along Old Logger's Trail

Old Loggers Trail at Raystown Lake offers hikers the chance to see how forests develop and can be managed to improve wildlife habitats. This 4.5-mile loop meanders through areas of dense growth and timber cuts, providing a first-hand look at forest succession. The pattering of raindrops on the canopy above creates a peaceful soundtrack, while damp conditions bring out the rich greens of ferns and moss-covered rocks along the trail.

2) Lakeside Trail - Canoe Creek State Park

Canoe Creek State Park’s Lakeside Trail is a serene walk that feels even more peaceful on a rainy day. The 0.9-mile boardwalk trail is a favorite among visitors and is ADA-accessible. As it winds along the shore of Canoe Creek Lake, visitors have the opportunity to see the water glisten as raindrops create gentle ripples on the surface. The sound of raindrops tapping on leaves and the quiet splash of water create a soothing ambiance, perfect for a calm, reflective stroll through nature.

3) Lakeview Trail - Greenwood Furnace State Park

The Lakeview Trail at Greenwood Furnace State Park offers a 0.3-mile route, providing easy access to their ADA-accessible fishing pier. The trail passes through beautiful wetlands as it meanders around Greenwood Lake, ending at the historic Greenwood Dam. On a rainy day, the lake becomes even more mesmerizing, with fog rising from the surface and the surrounding trees casting reflections in the still water. Note: While much of the trail is easy and accessible, the trail does become more difficult as it approaches the dam.

4) Balanced Rock Trail - Trough Creek State ParRainy day hike at Trough Creek State Parkk

If you're looking for a short but sweet rainy-day hike, the Balanced Rock Trail in Trough Creek State Park is an excellent choice. The 0.12-mile trail leads you over a suspension bridge across the Great Trough Creek and past Rainbow Falls, whose flow intensifies when raining. Past the falls, the trail heads up a stone staircase, ending at the magnificent Balanced Rock Formation. 

5) Lower Trail

Running between Alexandria in Huntingdon County and Canoe Creek State Park in Blair County, the Lower Trail parallels the Frankstown Branch of the Juniata River.  This flat, 17-mile trail follows much of the historic towpath of the Pennsylvania Main Line Canal, which later became the Petersburg Branch of the Pennsylvania Railroad, and many canal-era remnants can be seen from the trail. Wet conditions can make some sections a little muddy, but the gentle sound of rain falling on the leaves and the river’s quiet current make for a calm and peaceful hike.

6) Alan Seeger Trail - Alan Seeger Natural Area

In the Alan Seeger Natural Area of Rothrock State Forest, the 0.8-mile Alan Seeger Trail offers a relaxing hike that feels even more enchanting under the rain. The trail takes you through a dense forest of eastern hemlock, white pine and yellow birch, with stunning views of the Standing Stone Creek and surrounding landscape. The rain enhances the natural beauty of the area, with the rushing water and damp foliage creating a peaceful atmosphere. The relatively easy trail loop makes it accessible for most hikers, and the quiet beauty of the surroundings makes this an ideal spot to reflect, recharge and embrace the soothing rain.

7) Thousand Steps - Standing Stone TrailView along the Thousand Steps - Standing Stone Trail

For a more challenging rainy-day adventure, the Thousand Steps on the Standing Stone Trail is an exhilarating choice. This 0.5-mile trail features a steep ascent of 850 feet up a series of stone steps, leading hikers to several overlooks with expansive views of the surrounding landscape. Wet leaves and rocks make the terrain a bit tricky, but the views are worth the effort! The mist hanging in the valley below, the quiet rustling of the trees and the sense of accomplishment after the climb make this a memorable rainy-day hike.

8) Whipple Lake Trail - Whipple Dam State Park

The Whipple Lake Trail at Whipple Dam State Park is a peaceful 2.3-mile loop that encircles the tranquil waters of Whipple Lake, offering a scenic and refreshing hike, especially on a rainy day. Several boardwalks traverse wetland areas and provide opportunities to see wildlife, such as white-tailed deer, waterfowl and more. The well-maintained trail is easy to navigate, making it a great choice for hikers of all skill levels who want to embrace the peaceful solitude of a rainy-day adventure. 

9) River Trail Loop - Warriors Path State Park

For a scenic and relatively easy rainy-day hike, the River Trail Loop in Warriors Path State Park is a great option! This 1.5-mile loop trail winds along the banks of the Raystown Branch of the Juniata River, offering stunning views of the riverbanks and surrounding woodlands. Several species of birds of prey and waterfowl call that area home, so hikers may spot osprey, hawks or even bald eagles as they walk.

10) Greenside Pathway - Raystown Lake 

The Greenside Pathway at Raystown Lake is a relatively easy, Greenside Pathway at Raystown Lake2-mile trail perfect for a quick rainy-day hike. Winding through a diverse mix of woodlands and meadows, the trail offers ever-changing scenery that feels even more vibrant in the rain. Along the way, hikers can enjoy peaceful views of the lake, where mist often hovers over the water’s surface, creating a serene, almost dreamlike atmosphere. The trail is perfect for those who want a quiet, short walk without the difficulty of steeper terrain, making it a great way to enjoy Raystown Lake's beauty in any weather.