PA 239: A Journey Through the Rural Landscapes of Pennsylvania
PA 239 is a scenic state highway that winds through the heart of Northeastern Pennsylvania, traversing Luzerne, Columbia, and Lycoming counties. From its origins in the rural stretches of Nescopeck Township to its terminus in the highlands of North Mountain, the route offers a diverse cross-section of the region's geography, blending dense woodlands, fertile farmlands, and small riverfront communities.
Key Facts
- Counties Served: Luzerne, Columbia, and Lycoming.
- Major Intersections: PA 93, US 11, PA 487, PA 118, and PA 42.
- Key Waterways: Parallels the Wapwallopen Creek and the Susquehanna River.
- Terrain: A mix of rural farmland, dense forests, and small borough centers.
- Termini: Begins at PA 93 in Nescopeck Township and ends at PA 42 in North Mountain.
Traversing Luzerne County
The route begins at the intersection of PA 93 (Berwick Hazleton Highway) in Nescopeck Township. Initially known as Hobbie Road, the highway travels eastward through rural landscapes and the farming community of Briggsville. Upon reaching Wapwallopen Road, the designation shifts northward, passing through residential areas and expansive farmlands.
As the road reaches East Cherry Road, it curves into the woodlands surrounding Wapwallopen Creek (a local tributary). The highway follows the creek westward through dense forests before entering the community of Wapwallopen. After a brief eastward turn at River Road to pass through the downtown area, PA 239 turns north, paralleling both the Susquehanna River and the Norfolk Southern Sunbury Line railroad tracks.
Continuing north, the route becomes Pond Hill Road as it enters Mocanaqua. After navigating the residential eastern side of the community and turning west on Main Street, the highway crosses the Susquehanna River into Dogtown, where it intersects with US 11.
For a short stretch, PA 239 and US 11 run concurrently northward into the borough of Shickshinny. In the center of town, the two routes split at Union Street; US 11 continues north on North Main Street, while PA 239 turns west onto West Union Street. The road then leaves the urban environment for the woodlands of Koonsville and Union Township.
The route continues northwest, passing Hillcrest Lake and winding through the farmlands of Huntington Township. After passing through the hamlet of Huntington Mills and the small community of Register, the highway heads northeast, crossing south of Cambra before entering Columbia County.
Columbia County and the Benton Corridor
Upon entering Columbia County, the highway is designated as Shickshinny Road. The landscape remains a alternating mix of woods and fields throughout Benton Township. After passing the Hughes Mobile Home Park, the road dives southwest into the borough of Benton, where it becomes known as the Benton-Shickshinny Road.
Just south of downtown Benton, PA 239 meets PA 487 (Mill Street). The two routes run concurrently northward through the commercial center of Benton, transitioning from Mill Street to Main Street. After passing North Street, the combined routes enter a rural segment known as Red Rock Road.
The concurrency ends when PA 487 continues north on Red Rock Road, while PA 239 breaks away to the northwest along Beach Glen Road.
Entering Lycoming County and the Final Stretch
PA 239 continues its northward journey through the hillsides of Jackson Township, characterized by a rural blend of fields and forests. As it approaches the community of Divide, the route makes a brief northward turn before heading west into Lycoming County.
In Lycoming County, PA 239 intersects with PA 118 just south of the Sullivan County line. The highway parallels PA 118 for a distance, passing through the hamlet of Lungerville. Finally, the route turns northwest into North Mountain, where it terminates at an intersection with PA 42.
Route Summary Table
| County | Key Communities | Major Intersections | Local Road Names |
|---|---|---|---|
| Luzerne | Briggsville, Wapwallopen, Mocanaqua, Shickshinny | PA 93, US 11 | Hobbie Rd, Pond Hill Rd, Main St |
| Columbia | Benton | PA 487 | Shickshinny Rd, Benton-Shickshinny Rd, Beach Glen Rd |
| Lycoming | Divide, Lungerville | PA 118, PA 42 | N/A |
Frequently Asked Questions
Where does PA 239 begin and end?
PA 239 begins at an intersection with PA 93 in Nescopeck Township, Luzerne County, and terminates at an intersection with PA 42 in North Mountain, Lycoming County.
Which major river does PA 239 cross?
The highway crosses the Susquehanna River as it moves from Mocanaqua into the community of Dogtown.
Where is PA 239 concurrent with another route?
PA 239 shares a concurrency with US 11 through Shickshinny and with PA 487 through the borough of Benton.
What are some of the rural communities located along PA 239?
The route passes through several small communities and hamlets, including Briggsville, Koonsville, Huntington Mills, Register, and Lungerville.
Which counties does PA 239 pass through?
The highway travels through three Pennsylvania counties: Luzerne, Columbia, and Lycoming.