Ride Pennsylvania Route 44: Highway to the Stars

We start in Coudersport, Pennsylvania, where U.S. Highway 6 East and PA Route 44 South run concurrently. After about four miles, you'll enter the community of Sweden Valley. PA Route 44 turns off to the right, marking the official beginning of the Highway to the Stars.

The Highway to the Stars continues south for approximately 31 miles and ends at the Lycoming county line, but you can keep riding beautiful Route 44 all the way to Jersey Shore.

Note: Since this route travels through an area without much commercial development, you'll want to start with a full gas tank and a good meal—and pack a picnic lunch as well.

Our interactive Route 44 map shows the path you’ll take from Coudersport and Jersey Shore, including the section designated as the Highway to the Stars. The proposed route is pretty straightforward, so use it as a starting point and make your own adventure.

To experience the best combination of motorcycle riding and stargazing, consider riding the Highway to the Stars in autumn. The season’s lower humidity produces clearer skies—and who doesn’t love taking in some fall foliage along their ride? Peak leaf color varies year-to-year, but in this area of Pennsylvania, expect to see the most vibrant colors in late September through early October.

The weather in northern Pennsylvania can change in a hurry. Review the forecast before you ride, pack the appropriate gear, and be sure your bike is ready for the conditions. To help you decide what time of year you want to ride the Highway to the Stars, here are the monthly averages in nearby Williamsport, Pennsylvania.

For most of this section of PA Route 44, it's a narrow, two-lane road without shoulders. While the surrounding forest is beautiful and welcoming, it can also limit your visibility. Stay constantly aware and practice safe riding habits. Here are some things to keep in mind:

• Expect some tourist traffic, including RVs and vehicles towing trailers.

• Wildlife often cross the road—keep in mind, you're riding through the Susquehannock State Forest.

• Because Route 44 passes through mostly undeveloped areas, your headlight will be your only source of light at night. Reduce your speed to account for your limited sight distance.

• Surface hazards—including puddles, leaves, and fallen tree limbs—are always possible. Watch your speed on corners so you have time to react if something's in the road ahead.

Because this route is pretty remote, we're only highlighting one specific stop along the way. But if the idea of Highway to the Stars jumpstarts your imagination, you can build a whole adventure exploring Pennsylvania focused on stargazing opportunities.

The 82-acre Cherry Springs State Park is the focal point of Highway to the Stars. Along with hiking trails and rustic camping areas, the park features a public night sky viewing area and an overnight astronomy observation field.

Here are several other great places to stargaze in Pennsylvania in addition to Highway to the Stars:

• Sproul State Forest

• Laurel Hill State Park 

• Raystown Lake

• Sara's Campground

• French Creek State Park

Sharing the ride with a passenger can make your motorcycle adventure even better—as long as you both stay safe. Share our safety tips for motorcycle passengers with your riding buddies.

When was the last time you reviewed your motorcycle insurance policy? Staying up to date on your coverage can help you identify gaps, save time and money, and stay legal on the road.