PA Natural Attractions

Exploring Panther Rocks in Clearfield County

$A collage of four photos depicting the scenic beauty and geological formations of Panther Rocks in the Moshannon State Forest. The top left image shows a hiker standing on a ledge of a massive sandstone formation, surrounded by trees in vibrant autumn colors. The top right image features the hiker crouching inside a small tunnel formed by natural erosion in the sandstone, with loose rocks scattered around. The bottom left image captures a view looking up between two towering sandstone blocks, showcasing the vertical fractures, or joints, that have been widened over time by frost and ice wedging. The bottom right image displays the hiker standing in a narrow passageway between two sandstone walls, with fallen leaves covering the forest floor, illustrating the beauty and scale of the ancient rock city.$

If you’re looking for information about visiting Panther Rocks in Clearfield County, you’re in the right place!

A hiker in a red sweatshirt walks along a leaf-covered path in front of a large sandstone formation at Panther Rocks in the Moshannon State Forest. The towering rock, formed over 300 million years ago, is covered in patches of moss and ferns, blending into the autumn landscape of colorful leaves and trees. The natural overhangs and crevices in the sandstone showcase the effects of frost and ice wedging, which have gradually widened the vertical fractures, or joints, over time. The scene captures the scale and beauty of this ancient rock city nestled in the forest.

Panther Rocks is a 300-million-year-old “rock city” in the Moshannon State Forest, featuring towering sandstone formations pierced by numerous crevices and natural tunnels.

A narrow, rocky passageway winds through the sandstone formations at Panther Rocks in the Moshannon State Forest. The layered sandstone walls, worn smooth over millions of years, are covered in patches of moss and fallen leaves, while dense vegetation, including rhododendrons, grows at the top of the rocks. The crevices and overhangs, formed by frost and ice wedging, create a natural corridor through the ancient rock city. This secluded spot is shaded by the towering formations, inviting visitors to explore the intricate, weathered geology that has shaped this unique area.

The path leading to Panther Rocks is less than 100 yards long, making this an ideal hike for those who can’t walk long distances.

A tree-lined path covered in fallen autumn leaves leads through the Moshannon State Forest toward Panther Rocks. The trail, shaded by tall trees displaying vibrant yellow and orange leaves, winds through the forest, with glimpses of the massive sandstone formations visible in the distance. Sunlight filters through the canopy, casting a golden glow on the surroundings. This peaceful walk invites visitors to explore Panther Rocks, a geological formation shaped over 300 million years by natural forces, where wide vertical fractures, crevices, and overhangs offer a glimpse into the ancient history of the rock city.

Directions to Panther Rocks

Panther Rocks is located just off of 4 Mile Road in the Moshannon State Forest.

If navigating by GPS coordinates, use 41.14337, -78.49009 to find the parking area.

A bright orange truck is parked in the gravel parking area at Panther Rocks in the Moshannon State Forest. The area is surrounded by a vibrant autumn forest, with trees displaying shades of yellow and orange. A wooden sign for Panther Rocks stands near the parking lot, marking the trailhead leading into the forest where the ancient sandstone formations are located. The crisp fall air and colorful leaves create a peaceful and inviting atmosphere for visitors preparing to explore the rock city, characterized by its unique overhangs, crevices, and wide vertical fractures formed by frost and ice wedging over millions of years.

Another good navigational landmark is the Thunderbird camp, which sits directly across the road from the parking area for Panther Rocks.

A quiet gravel driveway leads to a campsite named "Thunderbird," marked by a wooden signpost displaying a green license plate and the number 3015. The campsite is surrounded by lush green grass and tall trees, with autumn leaves adding touches of color to the scene. A wooden fence runs alongside the driveway, and the tranquil forest setting hints at the natural beauty of the nearby Panther Rocks in the Moshannon State Forest. The peacefulness of the campground contrasts with the rugged sandstone formations of Panther Rocks across the road.

4 Mile Road is a dirt/gravel state forest road in good condition as of October 2024; a normal passenger car should be able to navigate it without issues.

A bright orange truck is parked along a narrow gravel road surrounded by dense forest in the Moshannon State Forest, with the trees displaying a vibrant array of fall colors. The sunlight filters through the leaves, casting a warm glow on the golden, orange, and green foliage lining the road. The rugged vehicle appears ready for off-road adventures, enhancing the feeling of exploration in this remote woodland setting. The scene captures the peaceful beauty of autumn as visitors make their way to the nearby Panther Rocks, a 300-million-year-old sandstone formation with unique overhangs, crevices, and vertical fractures.

What You’ll See at Panther Rocks

Panther Rocks in Pennsylvania’s Moshannon State Forest is an awe-inspiring natural wonder, perfect for those looking to explore ancient rock formations without the need for a strenuous hike.

A massive sandstone formation at Panther Rocks in the Moshannon State Forest displays distinct layers and ripple marks, a testament to its formation over 300 million years ago. The large, weathered blocks are covered in patches of vibrant green moss, contrasting with the rugged texture of the stone. Towering trees surround the rocks, their leaves glowing in shades of green, yellow, and orange under the autumn sunlight. The natural erosion and frost wedging that have shaped the rock over time are visible in the overhangs and crevices, while the formation’s size and detail showcase the ancient geological history of this unique rock city.

The rock city, made up of massive sandstone blocks formed over 300 million years ago, features towering formations, overhangs, and natural tunnels that give the area a unique, almost otherworldly feel.

A hiker in a red sweatshirt crouches under a low sandstone overhang at Panther Rocks in the Moshannon State Forest, exploring a small tunnel formed by the weathered rock. The rugged sandstone, shaped by natural forces like frost and ice wedging over millions of years, displays intricate textures and layers. Loose stones and small boulders line the floor of the tunnel, while ferns cling to the rock above. The tunnel, one of several crevices and overhangs in this rock city, provides a glimpse into the ancient geological history of the area, where joint separations range from just a few inches to as much as 20 feet.

Several of the photos I took during my visit to Panther Rocks include myself standing at various points near the formations, giving a clear sense of scale.

A hiker in a red sweatshirt stands between two towering sandstone formations at Panther Rocks in the Moshannon State Forest, gazing up at the trees overhead. The vertical fractures, or joints, between the rock walls have widened over time, creating a narrow pathway through the rock city. The weathered sandstone formations are layered with moss and leaves, while the autumn foliage above adds a vibrant backdrop of yellow, orange, and green. The ancient sandstone, formed over 300 million years ago, displays unique overhangs, crevices, and ripple marks, illustrating the natural forces that have shaped this remarkable geological feature.

These towering sandstone structures, some with joint separations as wide as 20 feet, make you feel small in comparison, and hopefully my presence in the photos helps showcase their size.

A hiker in a red sweatshirt stands at the base of a massive sandstone formation at Panther Rocks in the Moshannon State Forest, gazing up at the weathered layers of rock. The large, moss-covered sandstone blocks, formed over 300 million years ago, display intricate textures and overhangs shaped by natural forces like frost and ice wedging. The surrounding trees, adorned with vibrant autumn leaves in shades of orange and yellow, create a striking contrast against the earthy tones of the rocks. The scene emphasizes the scale and rugged beauty of this ancient rock city, where vertical fractures, or joints, have widened over time to create narrow passageways and crevices.

The wide vertical fractures, or joints, have been formed and widened over time through the natural process of frost and ice wedging, creating narrow passageways and crevices that are fascinating to explore.

A hiker in a red sweatshirt stands beside a moss-covered sandstone formation at Panther Rocks in the Moshannon State Forest, examining the natural crevices and overhangs in the rock. The scene is framed by thick vegetation, including rhododendron bushes, which add to the secluded, forested atmosphere. Fallen autumn leaves cover the ground, creating a colorful contrast to the green moss and weathered stone. The sandstone blocks, part of a rock city formed over 300 million years ago, show signs of erosion and frost-wedging, with wide joints and cracks separating the formations.

Another highlight of visiting Panther Rocks in the fall is the spectacular foliage.

A view from the base of a sandstone formation at Panther Rocks in the Moshannon State Forest, looking up through a narrow passageway created by vertical fractures in the rock. The towering sandstone blocks, covered in patches of moss, frame the scene, while a tall tree rises between the rocks, its autumn leaves glowing in shades of green, yellow, and orange against a bright blue sky. The natural erosion of the rock has formed crevices and overhangs, adding to the rugged beauty of this ancient rock city, shaped by frost and ice wedging over millions of years.

The forest surrounding the rock formations comes alive with vibrant hues of orange, yellow, and red.

A vibrant view of the autumn forest from the top of Panther Rocks in the Moshannon State Forest. The trees, displaying a mix of green, yellow, and orange leaves, stretch out in every direction, creating a dense canopy that filters the sunlight. The lush foliage on the forest floor adds to the feeling of seclusion and natural beauty. From this vantage point, the geological features of Panther Rocks are hidden by the thick vegetation, though the rock city below is characterized by wide vertical fractures, or joints, that have been shaped by frost and ice wedging over millions of years. This serene setting captures the essence of fall in the Pennsylvania wilderness.

The contrast between the rich colors of the leaves and the earthy tones of the sandstone formations creates a stunning visual experience.

A large sandstone formation at Panther Rocks in the Moshannon State Forest stands prominently among the autumn foliage. The weathered rock, covered in patches of moss and ferns, displays visible vertical fractures, or joints, that have widened over time due to frost and ice wedging. The natural layering of the sandstone, formed over 300 million years ago, is evident in the intricate textures of the rock. A path lined with fallen leaves winds through the forest alongside the formation, inviting visitors to explore the rock city's overhangs, crevices, and a short tunnel shaped by the forces of nature.

Final Thoughts

For those who prefer shorter walks or have limited mobility, Panther Rocks is the perfect spot to enjoy the beauty and scale of a geological marvel without having to commit to a long hike.

A hiker in a red sweatshirt stands on a moss-covered sandstone ledge at Panther Rocks in the Moshannon State Forest, gazing up at the towering rock formations around them. The path between the massive sandstone blocks, known as a "street" in the rock city, is lined with fallen autumn leaves, creating a colorful contrast to the earthy tones of the rocks and greenery. The ancient sandstone, formed over 300 million years ago, displays natural overhangs, crevices, and vertical fractures, or joints, that have been widened over time by frost and ice wedging. The hiker’s presence emphasizes the scale of the rock formations, which vary in joint separations from a few inches to as much as 20 feet.

Whether you’re an avid hiker or someone looking for a quick outdoor escape, this ancient rock city in the Moshannon State Forest is sure to leave a lasting impression!

A close-up view of a large, weathered sandstone formation at Panther Rocks in the Moshannon State Forest, with autumn leaves glowing in shades of yellow, orange, and red against a clear blue sky. The rock face, shaped over 300 million years by natural processes like frost and ice wedging, displays intricate textures and layers. The sandstone is surrounded by tall trees, their branches reaching overhead, creating a vibrant canopy that adds to the dramatic contrast between the solid rock and the delicate leaves. The image highlights the natural beauty and geological history of this ancient rock city.

Nearby Attractions

11 Must-See Attractions in Clearfield County is your guide to even more great destinations near Panther Rocks.

Must-see attractions in Clearfield County Pennsylvania.

11 Must-See Attractions in Elk County is your guide to the best things to see and do in Clearfield County’s neighbor to the north.

The Best Things to See and Do in Elk County PA.

12 Must-See Attractions in Cameron County is your guide to the best things to see and do in another northern neighbor of Clearfield County.

A collage of four diverse photographs showcasing the natural beauty of Cameron County, Pennsylvania. Top left: A wooden sign reading 'Square Timber Vista' amid a lush green landscape with rolling hills. Top right: An old concrete water tower stands next to a tranquil river flanked by green hills under a blue sky. Bottom left: A snowy scene with a stream flowing over small waterfalls, surrounded by snow-laden trees and rocks. Bottom right: Two elk with large, branching antlers standing in a grassy field with a backdrop of a clear blue sky.

Find even more great destinations to explore all across Pennsylvania with the interactive PA Bucket List Travel Map!

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