One day, countless ways to explore Bedford County outdoors
There are places where outdoor recreation revolves around a single activity. You come to hike, paddle or bike, then head home when the adventure is over. But that’s not the case in Bedford County in Pennsylvania.
Here, the landscape encourages you to experience it from multiple perspectives. A trail leads to a mountain overlook. A quiet lake invites you onto the water. A former railroad corridor becomes the perfect afternoon bike ride. None of the experiences compete with one another. Together, they tell the story of a county shaped by its mountains, valleys and waterways.
If you're looking to spend a day outside, here's an itinerary that moves with the landscape instead of rushing through it.
Start your day in downtown Bedford
Begin with breakfast in downtown Bedford before setting out for the day's adventure. Spend a few minutes strolling the historic streets, then head west toward Shawnee State Park. The drive itself introduces the rolling farmland and forested ridges that define much of Bedford County.
Morning: Hit the trail at Shawnee State Park
Shawnee State Park is an ideal place to begin because it offers options for nearly every experience level. If you're looking for a relaxed walk, the Lake Shore Trail follows the shoreline with frequent views of Shawnee Lake. More experienced hikers can tackle routes that climb into the surrounding hills for broader views of the park.
One of the pleasures of hiking here is watching the landscape change as you move through it. Forest gives way to open water. Quiet coves appear between stands of hardwoods. It's an invitation to slow your pace and notice the details.
Late morning: See the park from the water
After your hike, trade your hiking boots for a paddle. Rent a kayak, canoe or paddleboard and spend an hour exploring Shawnee Lake.
Experiencing the same landscape from the water offers an entirely different perspective. The wooded shoreline feels more expansive, wildlife becomes easier to spot and the slower pace naturally encourages you to linger. It's a reminder that outdoor recreation doesn't have to be measured in miles to be memorable.
Lunch and a change of scenery
Return to Bedford or nearby Schellsburg for lunch at one of the county's locally owned restaurants before setting out again. One of the advantages of exploring Bedford County is that it doesn't take long to move from mountain trails to river valleys, making it easy to fit multiple adventures into a single day.
Afternoon: Ride the Huntingdon & Broad Top Rail Trail
Before heading to the trail, cyclists can stop at Fat Jimmy's Outfitters, 109 Railroad Street in Bedford, for bikes, gear, service and repairs.
In the afternoon, head to the Huntingdon & Broad Top Rail Trail. Following the former railroad corridor along the Raystown Branch of the Juniata River, the trail offers a gentle ride or walk through farmland, woodlots and river scenery. Because the grade is relatively flat, it's approachable for families, casual cyclists and anyone looking to enjoy the outdoors without a strenuous climb.
The trail highlights another side of Bedford County's landscape while preserving an important piece of its transportation history.
Keep exploring
If one day leaves you wanting more, Bedford County offers plenty of reasons to return. Challenge yourself on the trails at Blue Knob State Park, explore additional hiking opportunities throughout the county or join the Discover Bedford County Hiking Club to turn every visit into a new adventure. The hiking club encourages visitors to experience trails across the county while discovering places they may have otherwise overlooked.
Travelers who want to turn the itinerary into an overnight getaway can also explore the Ride & Roam package at Omni Bedford Springs Resort & Spa. The offer includes daily bike rentals, a map linking the Heritage Trail with downtown Bedford and participating businesses, and a dining credit at Tillie's. Availability and terms may change.
End the day back in Bedford
Return to downtown Bedford for dinner and a chance to reflect on the day's adventures.
Bedford County's outdoor appeal is its variety. In one day, you can hike through hardwood forests, paddle calm water and pedal beside a river, all near one of Pennsylvania's most historic small towns.
