HARRISBURG, Pa. -- One of the great ways to see the beauty of the
Pennsylvania countryside is by driving the many scenic roadways
that wind throughout the state.
In addition to great scenery, there are roadside attractions,
excursion possibilities and local festivals to make any road trip
worthwhile. Two of the state's most scenic roadways are Route 6 and
Route 30.
Known as the "Grand Army of the Republic Highway," in honor of
Union Civil War soldiers, Route 6 lies in the northern tier of the
commonwealth.
Traversing the state, this scenic highway takes travelers back
to a much simpler time. Drivers can retrace the steps trod by
Native Americans, European explorers and Revolutionary War
soldiers.
In the fall, the attraction is the foliage, but any time of year
Route 6 is worth exploring. In the west, the drive will wander
through the foliage-rich Allegheny National Forest.
However, travelers who want to see the forest from overhead
should make a stop in Kinzua Bridge State Park.
Once considered one of the eight man-made wonders of the world,
this railroad bridge is the second highest in the nation.
While on the bridge, those brave enough to peer down 200 feet
will see red and gold treetops and Kinzua Creek.
Further east is the Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania.
A registered National Natural Landmark since 1935, the canyon is
nearly 50 miles long and covers more than 300,000 acres. Onlookers
can view the 800-foot walls that were cut by Pine Creek.
For more information on attractions and events along Route 6,
call (814) 454-7191 or visit www.paroute6.com on the Internet.
Commonly referred to as the Lincoln Highway, Route 30 is the
longest and oldest coast-to-coast highway in the U.S. Route 30 cuts
through the southern portion of Pennsylvania and travels through
some of the most historic towns in the state.
In the southeastern portion of the state, the highway cuts
through the heart of Amish country in Lancaster.
During the fall, guests can wander off the beaten path of Route
30 in Lancaster and experience dozens of craft shows and
festivals.
For more information about the Amish country, call (800)
324-1518 or visit on the Web at www.padutchcountry.com.
Route 30 continues through the Laurel Highlands Region. If
travelers want a more scenic foliage tour, they will have to turn
south onto Route 381.
Architect Frank Lloyd Wright made his impression here with
Fallingwater. Built in the 1930s, Fallingwater sits over a
waterfall and is considered one of the most architecturally
significant buildings in America.
For more information on the Lincoln Highway Heritage Corridor,
call (724) 837-9750.