Plan Your Visit
Plan on a free, full day at Pine Grove Furnace State Park: swim at one of two lake beaches, walk a piece of the Appalachian Trail near its midpoint, see the stone stack of the iron furnace that ran from 1764 to 1895, the Appalachian Trail Museum, and climb to Pole Steeple for the view. There is little cell service, so download DCNR's map first.
Before You Go
If You Have a Half Day
- Park at the Furnace Stack area and walk the historic district: the furnace stack, the Ironmaster's Mansion and the Appalachian Trail Museum.
- Walk part of the Hiker Biker Trail to Fuller Lake, which shares its route with the Appalachian Trail.
- Stop at the General Store, where thru-hikers attempt the half-gallon ice cream challenge.
If You Have a Full Day
Add Laurel Lake: swim at Laurel Beach in season or rent a boat, then hike the short, steep Pole Steeple Trail to the quartzite overlook. DCNR's guide suggests watching for bald eagles at Laurel Lake.
If You Have a Weekend
Book a site at the campground (late March to mid-December) or the Paymaster's Cabin, then spend day two on the longer trails in Michaux State Forest, like the 6-mile Buck Ridge Trail to Kings Gap.
When to Go
- Summer (Memorial Day to Labor Day): lifeguards at Fuller Beach, snack bars at both beaches, thru-hikers passing through.
- Spring and fall: bird migration, and in October the Fall Furnace Festival.
- Winter: quiet; ice skating and ice fishing on Laurel Lake when conditions allow (Winter).
What to Bring
- A downloaded park map and directions. DCNR says cell service is not available in most of the park.
- Water and sturdy shoes; DCNR advises not drinking from streams or lakes without treating the water.
- Swimsuits in season, and a leash if you bring a dog (Dogs).
Food
In summer each beach has a snack bar, and the General Store sits in the historic district. Charcoal grills and picnic tables are by the lakes and in the historic district (Picnicking).
Programs and Events
DCNR runs guided programs April through October; check its events calendar for dates. Two big annual events: the Appalachian Trail Museum Festival in June and the Fall Furnace Festival in October.
Plan Your Visit FAQ
What is there to do at Pine Grove Furnace State Park?
Swim at Fuller or Laurel Lake, hike the Appalachian Trail, see the iron furnace and the Appalachian Trail Museum, climb to Pole Steeple, fish, boat on Laurel Lake, bike the rail trail and camp.
How much time do you need at Pine Grove Furnace?
A half day covers the historic district and Fuller Lake. A full day adds Laurel Lake and the Pole Steeple hike.
Is there food at Pine Grove Furnace State Park?
In summer, each beach has a snack bar. The General Store is in the historic district.
When is the best time to visit Pine Grove Furnace?
Summer for swimming, October for the Fall Furnace Festival and fall color, and spring or fall for bird migration.