Big Mountain Overlook — Attraction in Metal Township

If I could give Big Mountain Overlook 500 stars, I would. There is no better vista in the entire state of Pennsylvania. I've been twice as of this review in October and November 2021 and it's truly a magical spot. Sitting out on the rocks listening to music while staring at the valley below and the mountain ridges is truly a euphoric experience. I even witnessed a marriage proposal here in November; no better spot to do it! I know I will propose here one day if I ever have a girlfriend. Something about the overlook is so mesmerizing and happy that it makes you forget about all the daily stress in life. It's as if you're in heaven yourself. And it's not just the views from the rocks. Driving along the dirt road to the overlook, it is truly something else to look out at the mountains to the west, especially late in the day. The overlook is especially pretty in the fall, but even once the foliage is gone too and you can see through the trees on the mountains, creating a blue wisp. If you are ever on a road trip coming through this region, please make sure to visit this overlook. Pictures don't do it justice not one bit; go see it...

Big Mountain Overlook is on Tower Road, not far off of Route 30, and connects to Cowan's Gap. Maps available at entrance.

Listen to the tower video, and you can hear the sound waves.

We parked at the tower, walked the half circle loop to the overlook, and then walked the trail back to the tower. The trail at the tower only looks like a grassy road around the tower, but splits in two. The left trail takes you to the overlook in about a half mile, but the right takes you to extended trails. There are some very rocky sections, so be careful of snakes. Highly recommend hiking boots instead of sneakers for ankle support.

Some people park along the loop circle by the overlook, but you need to be careful of that.

There are no amenities, so bring a drink to stay hydrated if you walk far. I bring a refillable insulated thermos that holds either a hot or cold drink and attaches either to a small cross shoulder bag, a belt loop, or a backback. Keeps the hands free.

Enjoy your...

An awe striking look down the valley of Path Valley Rd(Rt.75) with mountain shears on both sides and eventually into(on a clear day) the start of mountains of the Tuscarora State Forest. Just great views and typically a buzzard hang out for them to catch thermals and ride them out for what seems an eternity. A little disappointed at those who feel it necessary to litter, but whoever maintains has done a decent job at keeping up with covering up the graffiti. Just off of Augwick road onto a gravel road Tower road. This is right down the road from Cowan’s Gap State Park. Conveniently located also is access from Pa turnpike(76)off the Chambersburg exit. Highly recommend it for a nice drive, some fresh air and beautiful...