10 Easy Road Trips Near Williamsport, PA (That Take You Out of Lycoming County)
Looking for fun
day trips from Williamsport, Pennsylvania that take you a little farther than your usual routes? Maybe you’ve hit all your favorite spots in Lycoming County and you’re ready for something new.
The good news: you’re surrounded by smaller towns, state parks, and scenic drives that are perfect for quick
out-of-county road trips. Most of these are about 30 minutes to 2 hours from Williamsport, so you can leave after breakfast and still be home by bedtime.
Below are 10 easy, laid-back road trips in the surrounding counties of
Bradford, Clinton, Columbia, Montour, Northumberland, Potter, Sullivan, Tioga, and Union.
1. Explore Pine Creek Gorge from Colton Point & Leonard Harrison (Tioga County)
If you’ve ever wanted to see Pennsylvania’s own “Grand Canyon,” this is the trip.
Just under 1.5–2 hours north of Williamsport,
Pine Creek Gorge in Tioga County is one of the most iconic spots in North Central PA.
- Colton Point State Park – Rustic overlooks on the west rim, fewer crowds, and a slightly wilder feel.
- Leonard Harrison State Park – On the east rim, with an easier main overlook area, picnic spots, and a visitor center (in season).
On a clear fall day, the view of the canyon and the changing leaves will stop you in your tracks. Even if you’re not a big hiker, the main overlooks are just a short walk from the parking lot.
If you want to stretch your legs, try:
- The short rim trails for easy walking and great photos
- A drive down into the valley to see Pine Creek up close
Tip: Bring a light jacket, even in summer. It can feel cooler at the overlooks, especially in the evening.
2. Kayak, Bike, or Stroll the Rail Trail in Wellsboro (Tioga County)
Since you’re already near Pine Creek Gorge, make it a full day by stopping in
Wellsboro, about 1 hour and 45 minutes from Williamsport.
This little town looks like a movie set, with gas-style street lamps and a walkable main street. It’s a great base for outdoor fun near
Pine Creek Rail Trail, a long, flat path popular for:
- Biking along the creek
- Casual walking and wildlife watching
- Horseback riding in some sections
If you don’t own a bike, there are places nearby that rent them during the warmer months. After your ride or walk, grab an ice cream or sit on a bench and people-watch.
Personal note: The first time I rolled into Wellsboro, I only planned to stay an hour. I ended up wandering the main street, popping into shops, and staying until the lights came on along the sidewalks. It’s that kind of town.
3. Walk the Historic Streets of Lewisburg (Union County)
About 45 minutes south of Williamsport,
Lewisburg in Union County makes for a relaxed, half-day escape.
Here’s what makes it special:
- Charming downtown – Brick buildings, local bookstores, and cafes.
- Historic homes – Many streets are lined with old houses that make a simple walk feel like a history tour.
- River access – Spots near the Susquehanna River where you can sit, relax, or toss a line in the water.
If you like slow-paced trips, this one’s for you. Grab a coffee, wander the sidewalks, and maybe find a new favorite lunch spot. In fall, the trees around town explode with color.
Road trip idea: Pair Lewisburg with another stop in Union County or Northumberland County (like Milton or Sunbury) for a full-day loop.
4. Head to Shikellamy Overlook & the Point (Northumberland County)
Want a big view without a big hike?
Shikellamy State Park in Northumberland County is about an hour from Williamsport and gives you two very different experiences in one trip.
- Shikellamy Overlook – A short drive up the hill to a wide view where the North Branch and West Branch of the Susquehanna River meet. Great for photos and sunsets.
- The Marina/Point area – Down by the water, with picnic spots, walking, and chances to get out on the river.
On a sunny weekend, you’ll usually see boats, kayaks, and families grilling. It’s a nice place to take kids or visitors who want to see what central Pennsylvania looks like from above.
Tip: Pack a simple picnic or pick up sandwiches along the way. There’s something about eating lunch with that river view that just hits different.
5. Find Waterfalls and Views in Ricketts Glen Country (Sullivan & Columbia Counties)
If you’re craving waterfalls, head about 1.5 hours northeast toward the
Ricketts Glen area, touching both Sullivan and Columbia Counties.
While the famous waterfall trail itself is well known, the whole surrounding region is worth exploring, especially if you like:
- Scenic drives on back roads
- Cooler mountain air in summer
- Quiet lakes and picnic areas
You can make this as easy or as active as you like. Bring a camera, a change of socks if you tend to step in puddles, and a sense of adventure. The mix of forest, streams, and overlooks makes this one of the most beautiful
road trips near Williamsport, especially in October.
Note: Cell service can be spotty in parts of Sullivan County, so it’s smart to download maps ahead of time.
6. Step Back in Time on the Back Roads of Potter County
If you don’t mind a slightly longer drive (about 2 to 2.5 hours), head northwest into
Potter County, often called “God’s Country.” The roads themselves are half the fun.
What to expect:
- Dark skies at night – On clear nights, the stars are the main show. (If you stay late, you’ll understand why people rave about stargazing up here.)
- Winding drives – Forested roads, old barns, and small towns that feel frozen in time.
- State forest lands – Countless pull-offs for quick walks, photos, or just some quiet.
This is the kind of trip where you pack snacks, a full tank of gas, and just follow the curves in the road. If life’s been feeling too loud, a day in Potter County can be a real reset.
Suggestion: Plan this one on a weekend when you don’t have to rush. It’s better enjoyed at a slow, wandering pace.
7. Visit Historic Lock Haven and the Riverfront (Clinton County)
About 40 minutes west of Williamsport,
Lock Haven in Clinton County offers a nice mix of river views and small-town charm.
A simple day here might include:
- Strolling the riverfront and watching boats on the water
- Walking or driving through the historic downtown
- Sitting on a bench with a coffee and enjoying the mountain backdrop
If you like history and old architecture, you’ll enjoy just poking around the streets. It’s an easy, low-stress road trip that doesn’t require a lot of planning.
Bonus: The drive between Williamsport and Lock Haven is scenic all by itself, especially in late afternoon light.
8. Discover Danville’s Small-Town River Vibes (Montour County)
Head about an hour southeast and you’ll reach
Danville, a compact, historic town along the North Branch of the Susquehanna in Montour County.
Highlights include:
- Walkable main streets with older storefronts and local spots to grab a bite
- Easy access to the river and nearby parks
- Quiet neighborhoods that are great for a slow afternoon walk
If you enjoy “small but charming” towns, Danville will be right up your alley. It’s also an easy spot to pair with other Columbia or Northumberland County stops in the same day.
Idea: Take a simple “river towns” loop: Williamsport → Danville → Northumberland/Sunbury area → back home.
9. Tour Scenic Back Roads and Farm Country in Bradford County
For a more off-the-grid adventure, head about 1.5–2 hours north into
Bradford County. This is classic Pennsylvania countryside: rolling hills, farms, and little towns where everybody seems to know each other.
Things to do:
- Drive back roads and stop at scenic pull-offs
- Explore small boroughs and grab lunch at a local diner
- Look for overlooks where you can see ridge after ridge in the distance
You won’t find big-city attractions here, but that’s exactly the point. This is a great day trip if you love photography, quiet drives, and seeing a more rural side of the state.
Tip: Plot a rough route, but allow time to “get lost” (in a safe way). Some of the best views are on roads you didn’t plan to take.
10. Mix Nature and History in Union & Northumberland Counties
If you want a flexible road trip with a little bit of everything, try a loop south of Williamsport through
Union and
Northumberland Counties.
Here’s a simple sample route:
- Start in Lewisburg (Union County) – Coffee, downtown stroll, and maybe a quick stop along the river.
- Head to a nearby river access area – Sit by the water, watch for bald eagles, or fish if you’ve got your gear and license.
- Continue to a Northumberland County river town – Walk around, grab a late lunch, then head home before dark.
This kind of trip is perfect when you want to be out all day but don’t want to tackle big hikes or long, twisty mountain roads. It’s simple, scenic, and easy-going.
How to Make the Most of These Short Road Trips
To keep these
Williamsport area road trips stress-free, a little prep goes a long way:
- Check the weather before you go, especially for mountain and waterfall areas.
- Fill up your gas tank in or near Williamsport; some rural areas have fewer stations.
- Bring water, snacks, and a light jacket, even in summer.
- Download offline maps in case your signal drops in the hills.
- Pack a small day bag with sunscreen, bug spray, and a backup phone charger.
You don’t need fancy gear or a perfect plan. Just pick one place, set your GPS, and go.
Ready to Hit the Road from Williamsport?
Living in or visiting Williamsport, PA means you’re in a perfect spot for short, easy escapes. In less than two hours, you can:
- Look out over Pine Creek Gorge in Tioga County
- Stroll charming streets in Lewisburg or Danville
- Wander quiet back roads in Potter and Bradford Counties
- Enjoy river views in Northumberland and Clinton Counties
Which of these
out-of-county road trips near Williamsport are you thinking about trying first? The canyon views? The small towns? The back roads?
I’d love to hear about it.
- Have you done any of these drives before?
- Do you have a favorite hidden spot in one of these counties?
Share your thoughts and tips in the comments so other travelers from across the USA can plan their next Pennsylvania adventure. And if you found this guide helpful, please
share it with friends or family who are always asking, “What is there to do around Williamsport?”—they might discover their next favorite day trip.
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