On February 2, thousands gather at Gobbler’s Knob to witness Punxsutawney Phil’s prediction.
Groundhog Day and the story behind it
Since 1886, the Punxsutawney Groundhog Club has celebrated Groundhog Day and maintained the legend of Punxsutawney Phil. The tradition lives on throughout the year, not just on February 2.
Gobbler’s Knob is also part of the events calendar in September: the club holds its Annual Groundhog Club Picnic there each year. Dates for individual events may change, so check the relevant dates before your trip. This lets you plan your visit around a recurring event without assuming a fixed travel itinerary.
Lumber history and local keepsakes
At the Jefferson County History Center, different chapters of the region’s history come together. Many of Bowdish’s original pieces are on view year-round. They are joined by replicas of his buildings, as well as animated figures and scenes created by volunteers. The Bowdish model railroad display also runs on the last Saturday of each month, when volunteers are available to answer questions. The monthly schedule may change, so it’s a good idea to check the date before your visit.
The Lumber Heritage exhibit explores Jefferson County’s logging and rafting history in the early 19th century. Its three sections are titled “Logging & Rafting,” “Dinkies & Dams” and “A Model Raft.” The History Center thus takes visitors from individual keepsakes to the work and transportation topics covered by the exhibit for this early period.
The Snyder Hill Schoolhouse is a restored one-room schoolhouse. Visits for individuals and guided tours are available by appointment, so arrange a time in advance. This is an important distinction when planning your visit, rather than simply relying on a regular opening day.
Trails, rocks and river access
Clear Creek State Park covers 1,901 acres in Jefferson County and offers access to the Clarion River for fishing and boating. Its nature museum features exhibits on logging and nature and is open from spring through fall. The Ox Shoe Trail also connects nature and regional history: the self-guided walk takes one hour and explores the history of logging in the region.
The Beartown Rocks Trail offers a different route: it is two miles long and connects Beartown Rocks with Clear Creek State Park.
The Mahoning Shadow Trail is a 15-mile rail-trail along the historic Pennsylvania Railroad corridor beside Mahoning Creek. The Mahoning Shadow Shuffle is also held there every year, featuring a half marathon and 10K and 5K races. If you’re interested in the running event, check the date for the year you plan to visit.
The Piney ATV Trail is a 24-mile, privately owned, multi-use trail. It runs from Brookville to Piney Reservoir along a former railroad bed. The term “former railroad bed” describes the corridor’s earlier use; today, the trail is designated for multiple uses.
Scripture Rocks Park also combines a walk with an unusual historical theme. The free park is open from April through October between sunrise and sunset. Its 1.5 miles of gravel-covered paths wind among more than 60 boulders. The boulders bear engravings about philosophy and life’s trials by Douglas Stahlman, dating from the early 20th century.
Engines, weather and Cadillac keepsakes
The Coolspring Power Museum focuses on the development of internal combustion engine technology. Its permanent exhibits include stationary gas and hot-air engines, as well as other types of engines. Their power output ranges from a fraction of a horsepower to 600 horsepower. Hundreds of stationary engines are housed in more than 35 buildings and outdoor areas. The museum brings together a wide range of engine types and a specific history of technological development.
The Greenberg Cadillac Museum displays keepsakes from the brand collected over many decades. In 2026, it is possible to visit on selected Saturdays and Sundays from 1 to 4 p.m., unless otherwise noted. Check the annual schedule before your visit.
The Punxsutawney Weather Discovery Center is currently open Wednesday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and offers free parking. As opening hours may change, it’s worth checking before your visit. The focus of your trip can help you choose your accommodation: event dates, cultural history, or trails and river access.
Getting around Jefferson County
For regional road travel, Interstate 80, also known as the Keystone Shortway, crosses Jefferson County for 36 miles from west to east. It has four interchanges with major state and federal highways. The county’s landscape also includes lakes, streams, forests, farmland and rail trails; the museums, event venues and trails described here each offer their own focus.
Discover more destinations: Brookville, Punxsutawney, Brockway, Lawrence County, Montgomery, Elk County, York, Delaware.
For the broader travel overview: Pennsylvania.
