Sara Outdoors

Tag: Pennsylvania

  • Hiking Erie, PA (Fall Favorites)

    Hiking Erie, PA (Fall Favorites)

    The air has a certain kind of crispness that signals a shift. It’s that sweet spot in early fall in Erie, Pennsylvania, when the humidity has finally broken, the sun feels a little gentler, and a vibrant gold begins to peek through the last of summer’s green. For me, it’s the perfect call to hit the trails and soak up the season before it’s gone.

    hiking wintergreen gorge Penn.
    drone shot in wintergreen gorge

    This year, I decided to check out a few of Erie’s top spots for a fall hiking getaway. Each one offered a completely different vibe, and I loved them all.

    My 4 Best Hikes in Erie PA

    Presque Isle State Park

    stream at Presque Isle State Park

    My first stop was Presque Isle. The park’s Multi-Purpose Trail is a 13.3-mile paved loop that circles the entire peninsula, and it’s perfect for a relaxed hike.

    With the lake breeze keeping things cool, I took my time, enjoying the views of the water and the vibrant fall colors along the way. For a quieter experience, I recommend the Dead Pond Trail or the Long Pond Trail—they’re wooded, peaceful, and absolutely perfect for leaf-peeping.

    Asbury Woods

    Next, I headed to Asbury Woods, a beautiful nature preserve. I walked the Greenway Trail, a 2.2-mile moderate path that winds through forests and wetlands. The tree canopy was a spectacular show of color, and the well-maintained trails made it easy to lose myself in the peaceful, immersive walk. It was a great way to escape for a while and just enjoy the quiet beauty of nature.

    Erie Bluffs State Park

    For something a little more rugged, Erie Bluffs State Park was incredible. With its 90-foot bluffs overlooking Lake Erie, the views are absolutely breathtaking. I pieced together a few of the park’s shorter trails, creating my own custom loop. It felt a little more wild and secluded, and every turn offered a new panoramic view. This place is an absolute must-visit if you want dramatic scenery and a good workout.

    Wintergreen Gorge

    Hiking Erie PA - Wintergreen Gorge

    My final stop was Wintergreen Gorge, a bit of a hidden gem. The Gorge Trail, while a little more challenging with its rocky terrain, was completely worth it. The sound of running water from the waterfalls, the towering cliffs, and the dense foliage made me feel like I had stumbled into another world. The scenery here is simply stunning, and it’s a perfect spot for any adventurer looking for a reward.

    If you’re looking for a fall getaway that combines lake views, crisp air, and some of the best foliage around, Erie, PA, is the place to be.

  • Range Day with Walther 9mm in Warrendale PA

    Range Day with Walther 9mm in Warrendale PA

    My friend knows me well. A few weeks ago, he invited me as a guest to his gun club, the North Side Sportsmen’s Association in Warrendale. It was a perfect, crisp fall day, the kind of day that makes you want to get outdoors and do something a little different.

    The Gun Range in Warrendale

    I’d heard him talk about the NSSA before—how friendly the members were and how well-maintained the grounds are—but seeing it for myself was a completely different experience.

    We started at the pistol range, which offers different distances for all levels. I’ve been itching to try out my new Walther 9mm, and this was the perfect opportunity.

    walther 9mm

    The gun felt solid in my hand, and the moment I squeezed the trigger, a huge smile broke across my face. There’s a certain kind of focus that comes with shooting, a sense of quiet calm as you aim and hit your mark. It’s an empowering feeling, a mix of discipline and pure fun.

    After we finished with the pistols, my friend convinced me to try my hand at archery for the first time. I have to admit, it was a humbling experience! There’s definitely a lot to learn, but I loved the challenge of it—it’s all about form and patience, and I’m already looking forward to my next session.

    By the time we packed up our gear, we were more than ready to grab a bite to eat.

    To Mamacita’s in Mars PA

    best drinks in Mars, PA

    Our original plan was to head to Voodoo Seven Fields, which is usually our go-to spot, but my friend heard they were permanently closed. It’s a shame because that place always had a great atmosphere. But as a true adventurer knows, a change in plans can lead to something even better.

    We ended up at Mamacita’s Mexican Bistro & Cocktails in Mars, PA, and I’m so glad we did. From the moment we walked in, I was struck by the incredible ambience—the colors, the decor, the general feeling of warmth.

    I’d heard it was a step up from places like Emiliano’s, but it beat my expectations by a long shot. We started with the Queso fundido dip with chips, which was a perfectly rich and gooey beginning.

    For my main course, I ordered the Camarones Al Chipotle. The shrimp were cooked to perfection, and the chipotle cream sauce was full of amazing, smoky flavor. I could have eaten it all night.

    It was the perfect end to a day that was half adrenaline and half pure culinary joy. From the thrill of the range to the amazing food, the day was a true reminder of why I love living and exploring here in Western Pennsylvania.

    Mentions

    North Side Sportsmen’s Association
    325 Mt Pleasant Rd, Warrendale, PA 15086
    http://www.northsidesportsmen.com/

    Mamacita’s Mexican Bistro & Cocktails
    300 Adams Shoppes, Mars, PA 16046
    https://www.mamacitasmex.com/