Although Pennsylvania doesn't have a national park, Shenandoah National Park in Virginia is about a four-and-a-half-hour drive from Philadelphia. The park rises above the Virginia Piedmont to its east and the Shenandoah Valley to its west with two peaks, Hawksbill and Stony Man, reaching 4,000 feet. The different kinds of weather and topography create a mix of habitats in which tens of thousands of living creatures thrive.
The park has over 500 miles of trails for exploring, like Hightop Summit, which winds up a ridge to a 3,296-foot rocky viewpoint with moderate difficulty. It's a three-mile round trip hike that generally takes about three hours. The Whiteoak Falls is another great challenging hike to cascades and waterfalls. This moderate 4.6-mile round trip hike goes to the upper falls before returning. One of the most popular travel spots inside Shenandoah National Park is Skyline Drive, which runs over 100 miles through the park. Bears roam the hollows, and brook trout populate the tumbling streams just beyond Skyline Drive.
The Liberty Bell, once known as the State House Bell, rang in the tower of the Pennsylvania State House to assemble lawmakers to their meetings and signaled to the townspeople that it was time for the daily reading of the news. After some hard use, the Liberty Bell cracked, and attempts were made to repair it in 1846. Unfortunately, the bell was unable to be fixed. An inscription is written near the top of the bell about liberty and the bell's history.
The American Philosophical Society Hall was built in 1789 and provided a central meeting place for its members. Among those members was former president Thomas Jefferson, who encouraged the American Philosophical Society outfit to explore the American continent further. Today, there are journals to validate this expedition and other exhibits of history, science, art, and Philadelphia's earlier days.
The John Coltrane House is another great place to visit in Pennsylvania if you're interested in jazz. As you approach the house, the first thing you'll see is the wheat-paste mural of the legend holding a tenor saxophone.
Explore the historic Eastern State Penitentiary that held notorious lawbreakers, including Slick Willie Sutton and Al Capone. Day and night tours are offered that include the penitentiary's history and a look at death row, as well as award-winning exhibits about prison today and the root causes of mass incarceration.
Because it's one of the oldest states and played such a fundamental role in United States history, there are a ton of Pennsylvania landmarks that you will want to take in while you're RVing across the Keystone State.
How do I properly navigate and park a Class C motorhome rental in urban areas or tight spaces in Pennsylvania?
When navigating and parking a Class C motorhome rental in urban areas or tight spaces, it's important to take your time and plan your route beforehand. Familiarize yourself with the dimensions of the motorhome and the height and width restrictions of the roads you'll be traveling on. When it comes to parking, look for designated spots or parking garages that can accommodate the size of your RV. Always pay attention to signage and be aware of any towing restrictions in the area.
Do I need to know any weight or height restrictions when driving a Class C motorhome rental in Pennsylvania?
Yes, it's important to be aware of weight and height restrictions when driving a Class C motorhome rental in Pennsylvania. Many bridges and overpasses have low clearance levels that may not accommodate the height of your RV. Additionally, be mindful of the weight of your vehicle and ensure that you're not exceeding any weight limits on the roads you're traveling.
How do I properly level and stabilize a Class C RV rental at my campsite or RV park, and what equipment or tools do I need for this?
Discuss your specific campsite with the RV owner to determine if any leveling equipment is necessary. If so, they will walk you through how to set it up safely.
What kind of maintenance or upkeep do I need to perform on a Class C motorhome rental during my rental period?
During your rental period you are not responsible for maintenance. Treat the RV with care and maintain cleanliness during your trip.
Can I bring my bicycles or other outdoor equipment to use with the Class C motorhome rental, and what storage options are available for these items?
Yes, you can bring your bicycles or other outdoor equipment to use with the Class C motorhome rental. Many RVs have storage compartments or racks that can be used to store bikes, kayaks, or other outdoor gear. Check with the RV owner to see what storage options are available and how much weight they can accommodate.
What fuel efficiency considerations do I need to consider when driving a Class C motorhome rental, and how can I minimize the impact on my fuel costs?
Class C motorhome rentals are generally less fuel-efficient than smaller vehicles, so it's important to be mindful of your fuel usage. To minimize fuel costs, try to stick to slower speeds and avoid idling or rapid acceleration. Planning out your route ahead of time can also help you save fuel by avoiding unnecessary detours or backtracking.
Can I bring my entertainment equipment or appliances for the Class C motorhome rental, such as a portable grill or music player?
Yes, you can bring your own entertainment equipment or appliances to use with the Class C motorhome rental. However, be sure to check with the RV owner beforehand to ensure that the RV is equipped with the necessary outlets or connections to use your equipment. Additionally, be aware of any safety hazards, such as using portable grills near the RV, and take appropriate precautions.
Are any particular features or amenities available in Class C motorhome rentals that may not be found in other RVs in Pennsylvania?
The features and amenities available in Class C motorhome rentals can vary depending on the make and model of the RV. Some common features that may be available in Class C motorhome rentals include kitchenettes, bathrooms with showers, and additional sleeping areas. Check with the RV owner to see what features and amenities are included in their particular rental.
How do I correctly set up and use the kitchen and bathroom facilities in a Class C motorhome rental, and do I need to know any specific maintenance or cleaning considerations?
The RV owner will familiarize you with how to use the facilities. Take note of where the water and electrical hookups are located, and make sure to follow any instructions or guidelines provided by the RV owner. When it comes to cleaning and maintenance, be sure to follow proper procedures for disposing of waste and using cleaning products that won't damage the RV's plumbing or fixtures.