Loyalsock State Forest
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Detailed maps can help you plan your trip. Download the public use map and other trail and recreational activity maps. |
Loyalsock State Forest is named for the Loyalsock Creek, a scenic freestone stream that winds through the heart of its 114,494 acres. The forest spans across the northern tier's "Endless Mountains" and features flaming fall foliage and cascading waterfalls.
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Road Closures Loyalsock State Forest has sustained severe damage to its road system due to flooding from Hurricane Lee. All roads except Pleasant Stream Road and the lower segment of Shanerburg Road are now passable, but visitors must travel with caution. Visitors should contact the Resource Management Center for updates before traveling at 570-946-4049 or email at fd20@pa.gov Don't Move Firewood To help protect the forest from invasive insects that can kill trees and devastate the ecosystem, please do not transport firewood over long distances. Firewood can harbor insects such as emerald ash borer. Cut or purchase your firewood where you intend to burn it.
History Much of the Loyalsock State Forest was purchased from the Central Pennsylvania Lumber Company in the early 1930’s following the great lumbering era. Climax, Shay, and Heisler locomotives steamed along a network of narrow gaug  e railroad tracks, pulling flatcars loaded with logs to sawmill towns that grew up overnight and disappeared just as quickly. These now ghost sawmill towns have names like Masten, Laquin, and Sonesville. The Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), a work program for able bodied and unemployed males, developed camps which replaced the sawmill towns and logging camps of the early 1930’s. CCC Camps 80, 95, 96, 126, 128, and 145 were all located within the Loyalsock State Forest. History buffs and others researching their family history often visit Loyalsock State Forest seeking out locations of the logging railroads, sawmill towns, logging camps, and CCC camps. The Hillsgrove Ranger Station, located two miles south of Hillsgrove and one-quarter mile from Pennsylvania Route 87 along Dry Run Road, was the site of CCC Camp 96.The Loyalsock State Forest was designated in 2005 by combining the Wyoming State Forest in Sullivan County with the eastern half of the Tiadaghton State Forest in Lycoming County, and a portion of the Tioga State Forest in eastern Bradford County. The newly re-aligned state forest district was named after the Loyalsock Creek which flows through the center of the district.
DCNR Bureau of Forestry manages our state forests for their long-term health and productivity while conserving native wild plants. These forests are “working forests” and provide a whole suite of uses and values to Pennsylvania citizens, all while maintaining the forest’s wild character. Our state forests are managed for pure water, recreation, scenic beauty, plant and animal habitat, sustainable timber and natural gas, and many other uses and values. The management of our state forests is guided by the State Forest Resource M Ecosystem Management The Bureau of Forestry has adopted “ecosystem management” as its principal strategy for managing state forests. This approach seeks to conserve the natural patterns and processes of the forest while advancing long-term sustainability. Ecosystem management promotes the conservation of plant and animal communities and the landscapes and habitats that support them. It also accounts for needs and values of people and communities. This results in a holistic, integrated approach to managing forest resources. A Working Forest As you travel throughout the state forest, you’ll see examples of our forests “at work.” Some of these management practices are more noticeable than others, such as active timber harvests, deer exclosure fences, natural gas drilling sites, prescribed fires and gypsy moth spraying. Others are more subtle, such as the protection of a vernal pool, the buffering of a stream from timber harvesting, or the setting aside of a special area to conserve its wild character or protect a rare plant community. Each of these management practices and activities play a vital role in the management and conservation of our state forest system.  Certified “Well Managed” Pennsylvania’s 2.2-million-acre state forest system is one the largest certified forests in North America. The forest is certified (FSC-C017154) by the Rainforest Alliance™ under the Forest Stewardship Council™ standards. The FSC® is an independent organization supporting environmentally appropriate, socially beneficial, and economically viable management of the world's forests. Hiking opportunities abound on the Loyalsock State Forest. The two most popular hiking destinations are the Loyalsock Trail and the Old Logger’s Path, although there are nearly 200 miles of other unique marked and unmarked trails.
Loyalsock Trail
The Loyalsock Trail is for the more adventurous outdoor enthusiasts with hiking and backpacking in mind. This fifty-nine mile trail passes through the rugged forested mountains and valleys of the Loyalsock State Forest. Known locally as the “LT”, this trail is sure to provide challenges and tranquility to all hikers. Backpack camping is permitted along the trail except in locations designated closed to camping. Parking is available at the southern terminus along PA Route 87 and at the northern terminus along US Route 220. Parking is also available at most locations where the trail crosses a state forest road. To acquire an excellent informational booklet and trail map please contact: The Alpine Club of Williamsport, P.O. Box 501, Williamsport, PA 17701. (Email: alpineclublt@comcast.net)
Old Logger’s Path
This twenty-seven mile hiking trail traverses the valleys of Rock Run and Pleasant Stream as well as the former town of Masten which was once a lumber mill company town with over one thousand residents and later the site of CCC Camp S-80. The footpath utilizes old logging trails and the grades of logging railroads. The Old Logger’s Path offers stunning vistas and clear, cold, cascading streams. You can acquire a map of this trail system by contacting the Resource Management Center.
Jacoby Falls Trail
Conveniently located along Wallis Run Road, just north of Montoursville, this short day-hike trail offers a breathtaking view of Jacoby Run Falls. The trailhead offers plenty of parking and the trail has an incredible display of spring wildflowers along its route. It is a great trail for the family to hike and have a picnic lunch at the foot of the waterfall. You can acquire a map of this trail by contacting the Resource Management Center. Hiking Hiking opportunities abound on the Loyalsock State Forest. The two most popular hiking destinations are the Loyalsock Trail and the Old Logger’s Path, although there are nearly 200 miles of other unique marked and unmarked trails. Loyalsock Trail: The Loyalsock Trail is for the more adventurous outdoor enthusiasts with hiking and backpacking in mind. This fifty-nine mile trail passes through the rugged forested mountains and valleys of the Loyalsock State Forest. Known locally as the “LT”, this trail is sure to provide challenges and tranquility to all hikers. Backpack camping is permitted along the trail except in locations designated closed to camping. Parking is available at the southern terminus along PA Route 87 and at the northern terminus along US Route 220. Parking is also available at most locations where the trail crosses a state forest road. To acquire an excellent informational booklet and trail map please contact: The Alpine Club of Williamsport, P.O. Box 501, Williamsport, PA 17701. (Email: alpineclublt@suscom.net) Old Logger’s Path: This twenty-seven mile hiking trail traverses the valleys of Rock Run and Pleasant Stream as well as the former town of Masten which was once a lumber mill company town with over one thousand residents and later the site of CCC Camp S-80. The footpath utilizes old logging trails and the grades of logging railroads. The Old Logger’s Path offers stunning vistas and clear, cold, cascading streams. You can acquire a map of this trail system by contacting the Resource Management Center. Jacoby Falls Trail: Conveniently located along Wallis Run Road, just north of Montoursville, this short day-hike trail offers a breathtaking view of Jacoby Run Falls. The trailhead offers plenty of parking and the trail has an incredible display of spring wildflowers along its route. It is a great trail for the family to hike and have a picnic lunch at the foot of the waterfall. You can acquire a map of this trail by contacting the Resource Management Center. Picnicking There are two picnic shelters located in the Dry Run Picnic Area that are an excellent place to host a family picnic. Picnic shelters are also located at Sones’ Pond and Bear Wallow Pond and offer nice views of the water. Camping Primitive backpack camping is permitted while hiking along state forest trails. Backpack campers are not required to obtain a camping permit if they stay no more than one night at a location. All roadside campers, horse campers and backpack campers staying more than one night at a location are required to obtain a camping permit from the Resource Management Center. Camping in a group of 10 persons or more requires a letter of authorization from the District Forester in addition to a camping permit. Camping is prohibited along certain sections of roads and some other areas posted as closed to camping. Hunting Hunting for deer, turkey, grouse, squirrels, and black bear is a popular use of the forest during designated seasons. Other than a few safety zones around buildings and picnic areas, hunting is permitted throughout the state forest. The Loyalsock State Forest has 4 areas enrolled in the Deer Management Assistance Program, offering additional tags for antlerless deer. The Hillsgrove Forest Maintenance Headquarters serves annually as a bear check station and is surrounded by excellent black bear habitat. Additional information on hunting can be obtained from the PA Game Commission and DCNR’s websites. Fishing The Loyalsock Creek and Lycoming Creek and their many tributaries which drain vast portions of the state forest, provide some of the most scenic trout fishing to be found in Pennsylvania. The larger streams are stocked annually with trout and the numerous mountain streams offer challenging native brook trout fishing. Fishing for warm water species such as pickerel, yellow perch, bluegill and largemouth bass can be enjoyed on Sones’ Pond and Bear Wallow Pond. These two ponds are also a favorite of local ice fisherman. Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission seasons and regulations apply. Sightseeing More than one hundred and forty miles of state forest roads provide opportunities to view the forest and its flora and fauna. It is not uncommon to see black bears, wild turkeys, white-tailed deer, or to even glimpse a bobcat. Eastern coyotes are found throughout the district and lucky sightseers might even get to view a fisher or river otter, both of which were reintroduced into the forest during the last three decades. Scenic views, waterfalls, and wildflowers can be observed along most of the state forest roads. Please exercise caution when traveling state forest roads, especially during the winter months when many roads do not receive maintenance. High Knob Overlook offers a spectacular view of nearly 25 miles and beauty beyond words. Many visitors come to High Knob in June to view the mountain laurel in bloom and or in early October to view the vibrant fall colors. Canyon Vista, Forksville Vista, Hoagland Vista, Band Rock Vista, Sharp Top Vista, Bodine Mountain Vista, Trout Run Vista, Indian Trail Vista, and Pleasant Stream Vista are other overlooks within Loyalsock State Forest with inspiring views of the surrounding countryside. Waterfalls Waterfalls abound in the Loyalsock State Forest. Dry Run Falls can be accessed by vehicle, while most others, including Jacoby Run Falls and Angel Falls, involve a short hike. The Rock Run Valley provides visitors with an awesome display of nature. The crystal clear mountain water crashes over waterfalls and forms deep blue pools. Special regulations in this valley have promoted a family friendly experience for summertime wading in the refreshing mountain water. The Haystack Rapids near Laporte offer visitors a truly one-of-a-kind experience. A geologic formation unique to the area has left large mound-like boulders in the Loyalsock Creek that glisten in the sunlight due the high quartz content. The water squeezes through the boulder field, in a series of scenic rapids. A pleasant hike on an old railroad grade will lead you to the Haystacks where you can enjoy a peaceful picnic. Horseback Riding The Loyalsock State Forest features a designated bridle trail for horseback riding and a trailhead for camping with horses and trailers. The 52-mile designated trail features 2 loops that originate and terminate at the trailhead along World’s End Road, making it convenient for equine enthusiasts. In addition to the designated trail, horseback riding is permitted on nearly 130 miles of state forest roads and well over 200 miles of trails. Mountain Biking Most roads and trails on the Loyalsock State Forest are open to mountain bikes. The extreme variability of the topography in this region of the state offers a variety of challenges for all skill levels. Boating The Loyalsock Creek provides a challenging course for canoes and kayaks. Large boulders and swift springtime currents offer Class III and IV rapids throughout the upper stretches of the creek. The lower section, below Forksville, is less challenging and provides opportunities for less experienced paddlers. Access and parking is somewhat limited due to the steep terrain surrounding the stream. The Sandy Bottom Access Area provides ample parking and canoe access to the lower half of the stream, and the smaller Mags Rocks Access area is located near Hillsgrove on Jacks Road. Please contact the Resource Management Center for further details on stream access and conditions, as they vary widely throughout this stream’s course. Canoes and kayaks are also permitted on Bear Wallow and Sones’ Pond. By boat you can experience pan fishing at its best. Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission regulations apply. DCNR Launch Permits are available at the Resource Management Center. The Susquehanna River Water Trail-North Branch winds throughout a portion of the forest district. Although there is no state forest land on its shores, there are several islands managed by the state forest district that are open to through-camping by canoes and kayaks. This water trail is currently being developed through the efforts of the Endless Mountains Heritage Region and the Pennsylvania Environmental Council, so river islands open to camping have not yet been posted with information signs. If you have questions about camping on the river islands, please contact the Resource Management Center. Winter Activities Cross-country skiing and snowmobile riding are favorite winter activities on the Loyalsock State Forest. Nearly 130 miles of joint-use state forest roads and 16 miles of trails are open to snowmobiles when conditions permit. The district staff keeps the snowmobile trails groomed and packed to give riders an enjoyable experience. Parking is somewhat limited but several lots have recently been developed or improved. The trailhead along World’s End Road provides ample parking and direct access to many points of interest including High Knob Overlook and Loyalsock Canyon Vista.
The high elevation of the Loyalsock State Forest provides for some very good cross-county skiing opportunities. The district maintains two systems specifically managed for skiing, although skiers are welcome on all roads and trails. The trailhead along World’s End Road provides access to 21 miles of ski trails and has shelters and latrines for your convenience. The Hawkeye and Sand Springs Ski Trails offers an additional 15 miles of trails and winter time views of the Devil’s Elbow Natural Area. The parking lot is located on the paved and well maintained Ellenton Mountain Road. Pennsylvania’s state forest system includes dozens of special wild and natural areas set aside to protect unique or unusual biologic, geologic, scenic and historical features or to showcase outstanding examples of the state’s major forest communities. Natural areas are “managed” by nature and direct human intervention is limited. They provide places for scenic observation, protect special plant and animal communities and conserve outstanding examples of natural beauty. Wild areas are generally extensive tracts managed to protect the forest’s wild character and to provide back country recreational opportunities. Kettle Creek Gorge Natural Area This secluded mountain valley is only accessible on foot. It is located in the southern portion of the Loyalsock State Forest. This 774-acre tract was set aside in 1970 to permit scientific observation of natural systems, protect examples of typical or unique flora and fauna communities, and preserve areas of outstanding natural beauty. The entire area will remain undeveloped for the enjoyment of current and future generations.  Tamarack Run Natural Area This unique natural area is located in the northeast portion of the Loyalsock State Forest and is comprised of two hundred and thirty-four acres near Sones Pond. Named for the tamarack tree, this boreal conifer wetland provides protection for the plants, amphibians, and reptiles that call this natural area home. Devil’s Elbow Natural Area This four hundred and four acre gem is located at the headwaters of the North Branch of Rock Run in Eastern Lycoming County. It is noted for its many emergent, shrub, and forested wetlands and is home to wetland carnivorous plants such as sundew and pitcher plant. McIntyre Wild Area This spectacular wild area is some seven thousand five-hundred acres in sizes and holds the complete watersheds of four small streams that cascade in numerous waterfalls. It is located north and east of Ralston off of Route 14. McIntyre was also the site of a 19th century mining town and contains the ruins of its buildings and facilities. The Band Rock Vista provides a spectacular view of the Lycoming Creek Valley. Kettle Creek Wild Area This two thousand six-hundred acre wild area buffers the Kettle Creek Gorge Natural Area and is located in the southern portion of the Loyalsock State Forest. It is home to an exceptional wilderness trout stream. Primitive backpack camping is permitted within the wild area. For more information and maps to these and other State Parks visit the "Find a Park" page. Worlds End State Park This beautiful state park can serve as a base camp for experiencing the pleasures of the Loyalsock Trail and the Loyalsock State Forest. Worlds End was first known as “Whirls End” due to the park’s location at a narrow s-shaped gorge in Loyalsock Creek where the stream careens off a sheer rock wall and then continues its journey at a right angle to the original course. This seven hundred and eighty acre state park is nestled within the forest and has rustic rental cabins and facilities for camping. The park also features swimming, fishing, and picnicking. Ricketts Glen State Park This gorgeous state park is a stone’s throw from the Loyalsock State Forest. The park is named for Colonel R.B. Ricketts, a Civil War veteran, who donated a large portion of the Park. The Falls Trail within the park offers visitors a truly memorable experience. The trail traverses the Glens Natural Area and passes by 22 named waterfalls which range in height from 10 feet to 94 feet. Lake Jean is a 245 acre lake complete with beach, bath houses and canoe and kayak access and rental. Rustic rental cabins are available as well as facilities for RV and tent camping. At over 13,000 acres it is one of the largest state parks in the Commonwealth with lots of unique experiences to offer. For more information about Loyalsock State Forest, feel free to contact us at: Loyalsock District Office |
anagement Plan. 