Blue Knob, PA

Blue Knob State Park sits in Bedford County around Pennsylvania's second-highest peak. Thanks to its 3,146-foot elevation, the mountain catches around twelve feet of snow every winter, giving the area a true alpine feel that is hard to find elsewhere in the state. What was once heavily logged timberland and a Cold War radar site has grown into one of the region's favorite year-round mountain retreats.

During the warmer months, locals take advantage of quiet hiking and mountain biking trails, secluded campsites, and stocked trout streams. When winter arrives, the neighboring Blue Knob All Seasons Resort draws skiers, snowboarders, and tubers to some of the steepest slopes in Pennsylvania. Having this kind of backyard access to outdoor recreation makes the area especially appealing if you love spending your free time in the mountains.