Presque Isle in Erie, Pa is a 3200 acre state park filled with activities to keep everyone happy.
"Almost an island" is how the French refered to Presque Isle, located on the shores of Lake Erie, in Erie Pennsylvania. Today, it is a 3200 acre nature-lovers paradise, carefully maintained to preserve the unique environment. Presque Isle or "the peninsula" as the natives call the park, attracts over 4 million visitors a year, who come to enjoy some of the many activities that are available.
For the quiet, less adventuresome visitors, there are 11 miles of hiking trails where on any day you may find moms and dads with strollers, children on bicycyles or rollerblades and die-hard bicyclists and joggers. Even during the winter, there are 5 miles of groomed trails for the cross country skier and shoeshoer. After hiking, visitors can pop in at the interactive visitor center to learn more about the geological history of the peninsula and the various animals that reside there.
Also, for the less adventuresome, a trip to the Oliver Hazard Perry Monument on the bay and the Dobbins Lighthouse, built in 1872 are recommended. Visitors can take a scenic boat tour of the lake from one of the few tour boats that operate on the peninsula. Top off the day with watching the sun set on one of the 11 beaches.
For the more adventuresome, there are seven miles of beautiful sandy beaches, eleven beaches in all. Some of have consession while one beach (Number 7) is handicapped accessible with a boardwalk down to the water's edge. Besides swimming, visitors can fish, canoe, kayak and go kite skiing on the open lake or in the Bay area, which has a beautiful view of downtown Erie.
For the campers, there is a campground located at the entrance to the park along with various restaurants and eateries. There is also a bike rental shop conveniently located at the entrance to the park. At least 3 hotels are located just up the road from the park, so finding lodging will not be difficult.
A trip to Presque Isle, which was one of the top 100 Swimming Holes in the country, is a trip you won't forget.
