Hiking and Camping
Hiking is available on many trails in the Susquehannock State Forest,
though the main trail is the Susquehannock Trail System, an 85-mile
loop through the forested hills and valleys of the region. It was created
by joining together a number of old and new foot trails, logging roads
and abandoned railroad grades. The trail originates at the district
office along Route 6 in Potter County and extends south into Clinton
County. The route is well-marked with rectangular orange blazes and
is mostly comfortable walking with a few steep grades.
Fishing and Boating
Trout fishing is popular in several streams in the forest. KettIe Creek
has a fly fishing only area, while one of its tributaries, Cross Fork
Creek, has a wild trout fishery. Hammersley Fork provides trout fishing
in a secluded area.
Hunting
Hunting for deer, bear, turkey, grouse, squirrels, rabbits and ducks is
a popular use of the forest during designated sea- sons. Other than a
few safety zones around buildings, hunting is permitted throughout the
state forest. Four thousand acres are open to hunting by disabled hunters
on ATVs with special permits.
Sightseeing
Within Susquehannock State Forest are 180 miles of roads for enjoying
the forested scenery. Deer, turkey, hawks, grouse, raccoons and porcupines
are frequently observed while traveling the forest roads, and bear and
bobcat sightings are becoming more frequent as their numbers increase.
Sixteen vistas provide magnificent views of the forest, particularly during
fall foliage time.
Winter activities
Susquehannock State Forest offers 29.5 miles of cross- country ski trails.
Many foot trails, gated timber sale roads and old railroad grades also
are used by cross-country skiers and snowshoe enthusiasts. Over 200 miles
of snowmobile trails are located on Susquehannock State Forest, all of
which are found on the North Central Snowmobile Trails Map, available
at the district office.
All-terrain vehicle riding
During the summer months, a 43-mile-ATV trail is available within Susquehannock
State Forest. The trail passes through Lyman Run State Park, where parking
and sanitary facilities are located. A loading dock, as well as sanitary
facilities and picnic tables, can be found adjacent to the forest district
office.
Mountain biking
Mountain biking is permitted on state forest roads, timber sale roads
and a trail that originates at the district office.
Horseback riding
Horses are allowed on all the state forest roads, timber sale roads and
roads along pipelines. There are no trails designated for horseback riding.
Other special opportunities
The Pennsylvania Lumber Museum, operated by the Pennsylvania Historical
and Museum Commission, is located along U.S. Route 6, approximately
10 miles west of Galeton. The museum, boasting a full-size logging camp
and sawmill, provides an excellent display of logging practices from
1870 to 1930.