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know.
About Pennsylvania
One of the original 13 colonies, Pennsylvania was founded by William Penn as a haven for his fellow Quakers. Pennsylvania’s capital, Philadelphia, was the site of the first and second Continental Congresses in 1774 and 1775, the latter of which produced the Declaration of Independence, sparking the American Revolution.
After the war, Pennsylvania became the second state, after Delaware, to ratify the U.S. Constitution. In the American Civil War (1861-1865), Pennsylvania was the site of the Battle of Gettysburg, in which Union General George Meade defeated Confederate General Robert E. Lee, bringing an end to the Confederacy’s Northern invasion, as well as Lincoln’s famous Gettysburg Address. Tourists are drawn to Pennsylvania by its monuments to America’s revolutionary history, including Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell.
Explore the different trails in PA
discover
Pennsylvania is almost entirely covered by mountains and forest. The Appalachian Mountains, comprised of the Allegheny and Pocano ranges, cut through the center of the state. The 2,184-mile-long Appalachian National Scenic Trail, generally known as the Appalachian Trail, extends between Springer Mountain in Georgia and Mount Katahdin in Maine, passes through this area.
Learn about the wildlife in PA
care.
Wildlife conservation in Pennsylvania is a true success story. Our citizens are blessed with 480 species of birds and mammals. There are over 100 nesting bald eagles in the state. Black bear are healthy and expanding their range. White tail deer are abundant and healthy. Elk are thriving in the north central region of the state. Bobcat, fishers, and river otters are reproducing and providing recreation for many outdoor enthusiasts. Game lands are home to uncommon bird species, such as Henslow's sparrow, great egret, black cap night heron and Cerulean warbler. The Eastern wild turkey is now found in just about every county. This has not always been the case.
Pennsylvania's approach to wildlife management was uncomplicated in the 1700s and 1800s. There were no hunting seasons or bag limits. It was up to the people to decide how and when to take game. Residents often depended upon wildlife for income and table fare.