If you’re looking for information about visiting the Three Sisters Rock Formation in Huntingdon County, you’re in the right place!
The Three Sisters are 3 large pillars of rock standing tall along a ridge top in the aptly-named Rocky Ridge Natural Area, part of the Rothrock State Forest.
These three stoic pillars of rock mark a unique geological feature along the scenic Standing Stone Trail, presenting a spectacular destination for avid hikers and nature enthusiasts.
Hiking to the Three Sisters
The hike to the Three Sisters as described here is a 1 mile out-and-back hike (so a 1/2 mile each-way) utilizing the orange-blazed Standing Stone Trail.
The trailhead is located along Frew Road, a well-maintained state forest road.
If navigating by GPS, use coordinates 40.56495, -77.84899 to locate the trailhead.
There’s plenty of pull-off parking right next to the trailhead.
As mentioned, the hike to the Three Sisters and surrounding rock features is just shy of a half-mile in length, and features 300 feet of elevation gain from the road to the ridgetop.
From the trailhead, follow the trail south, where you’ll reach a small stream crossing roughly 100 yards from the road.
Once across the stream, it’s a simple matter of following the trail uphill until you reach the ridgeline.
Once you reach the ridgeline, you’ll see massive rock formations to your left and right as the trail winds right through them.
The trail will continue southbound, and that’s where you’ll encounter the distinctive Three Sisters.
That’s not to say there aren’t plenty of other interesting rock formations along the ridgetop.
Depending on the season, you may witness a variety of wildflowers blooming at the feet of the Three Sisters, adding dashes of color to the earthy tones of the forest.
Roughly 150 yards of ridgeline around the Three Sisters in nothing but massive rock formations, one of the reasons so many rock climbers are drawn to this area.
The formations are not just geological wonders but also natural sculptures that spark the imagination.
Some of the rocks even appear to have faces in them!
150 yards south of the Three Sisters, a powerline cut creates a sweeping vista in two directions.
The view to the southeast shows you where Frew Road continues south.
While the view to the northwest is in the direction of Route 26.
From the powerline cut, you can simply backtrack past the Three Sisters and down the hill to your vehicle, or you can take a yellow-blazed Bypass Trail which runs below the ridgeline.
Either way, you’ll end up on the Standing Stone Trail, hiking back downhill to Frew Road.
Before you know it, you’ll be back at your vehicle, having made another great memory in the Rothrock State Forest!
Final Thoughts
A hike to the Three Sisters Rock Formation is more than a physical activity; it’s a journey that connects you to the grandeur of Pennsylvania’s natural heritage.
Here, in the Rocky Ridge Natural Area, you can witness expansive vistas while enjoying massive rock pillars weathered and shaped by the elements into the magnificent forms we see today.
As with any natural wonder, the Three Sisters Rock Formation and its surrounding environments are a privilege to visit.
Hikers are encouraged to follow the principles of Leave No Trace to preserve the beauty and integrity of the area for future generations.
Nearby Attractions
The 1000 Steps along the Standing Stone Trail is one of the most famous hikes in central Pennsylvania.
The reasons for its fame are many, including the challenging nature of the hike and the incredible views from the top of the steps.
The Throne Room is a panoramic overlook along the Standing Stone Trail just south of the 1000 Steps.
Sausser’s Stone Pile is a massive rock formation along the Standing Stone Trail that also happens to be a superb scenic overlook.
The Stone Mountain Hawk Watch is a scenic overlook along the Standing Stone Trail used to monitor the fall hawk migration.
Stone Valley Vista is a panoramic scenic overlook located along the Standing Stone Trail, 2.2 miles south of Greenwood Furnace State Park.
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