Spending time outdoors is a great way to recharge, and Mercer County, Pennsylvania, offers a variety of trails, waterways, and outdoor businesses that make it easy to connect with nature. Whether you enjoy kayaking, hiking, fishing, or simply relaxing, Mercer County has many options for outdoor recreation.
Here’s a guide to local places and businesses that can help you make the most of your visit.
Carried Away Outfitters provides rental services for kayaks, paddleboards, and bikes, giving visitors access to several outdoor experiences without needing to bring their own equipment.
They offer rentals for use on the Shenango River Water Trail and Shenango Lake, two locations known for calm waters and scenic surroundings. Carried Away also provides guided trips, which can be helpful for beginners or those who want a structured outing on the water.
Tip: Check their schedule for guided paddles if you’re new to kayaking or want additional support during your trip.
DJ’s Greenhouse & Gardens in Transfer offers a variety of plants, flowers, and garden décor for visitors who enjoy horticulture. In addition to its garden center, DJ’s hosts seasonal events and workshops focused on gardening and landscaping.
Walking through the display gardens or participating in an event can be a relaxing way to spend part of your day. It’s also a good spot to pick up plants or supplies if you’re working on your own garden at home.
Tip: If you’re visiting in the spring or fall, check their event calendar for special workshops or seasonal sales.
Mercer County features several trails suitable for walking, hiking, and biking. A few options to consider include:
Tip: Trails can vary in difficulty and surface conditions, so check ahead and bring appropriate footwear and supplies.
For those interested in fishing, kayaking, or boating, Mercer County’s lakes provide several options:
These locations are well-suited for both short visits and full-day outings, depending on your interests.
To enhance your next fishing trip in Mercer, be sure to check out these two businesses:
Bubba Maks Bait and Tackle- If you’re looking for live bait, tackle, snacks, cold drinks, or propane, be sure to stop by and load up on all your fishing must-haves.
Urban Fly Company- If you want to try your hand at fly fishing or are an experienced angler who needs a seasoned guide to show you the best spot in Mercer, Urban Fly Co. is your top choice. They are a fly fishing guide service specializing in river water species (musky, pike & bass). They welcome all skill levels to give you a great fishing experience!
Other nearby outdoor locations worth visiting include:
If you’re interested in exploring nearby small towns, Volant Village offers shopping and dining in a historic setting.
Mercer County provides a variety of outdoor activities suited for visitors of all interests and activity levels. Businesses like Carried Away Outfitters and DJ’s Greenhouse add to the experience by offering equipment rentals, workshops, and seasonal events that make it easy to enjoy the natural surroundings.
For more information and ideas on how to plan your visit, you can explore our Outdoor Adventure page.
