October 31, 1997

Vol. 1 No. 24

DCNR opens new equestrian path adjacent to Pine Creek Trail

In an effort to accommodate more recreational uses on state forest land, DCNR recently opened an equestrian path adjacent to the Pine Creek Trail in Tioga County.

The 8.9-mile horse path parallels the existing Pine Creek Rail-Trail from Ansonia to Tiadaghton. The path was constructed to accommodate equestrian traffic with a suitable surface area apart from the pedestrian and biking traffic on the main trail.

The $55,000 project was completed over a span of four weeks in September and October. The trail required 10,593 tons of fine surface stone to complete. A local quarry owned by Clifford Cross supplied the material. Additionally, a parking lot at Tiadaghton was surfaced as part of the project.

DCNR's Tioga Forest District, based in Wellsboro, supplied construction equipment and personnel; and the Bureau of Facility Design and Construction performed the engineering and construction management.

The Pine Creek Trail is proposed to extend 63 miles from Wellsboro, Tioga County; to near Jersey Shore, Lycoming County over the next few years, and will be used primarily for bicycling and hiking. The first section of the Pine Creek Trail opened last August. This section of trail, which is located primarily on state forest land, extends 19 miles from Ansonia, Tioga County; to Rattlesnake Rock, Lycoming County. The trail follows Pine Creek Gorge, also known as the Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania, a national natural landmark.

Tens of thousands of hikers, bikers, skiers and equestrians have used the trail since its opening. The heaviest use occurs in early October when fall foliage is at its peak coloration.

Development of the second section of the Pine Creek trail is expected to begin next year. Work on an eight-mile section stretching from Ansonia to Wellsboro Junction will include surface preparation, a new parking area and restrooms at Wellsboro Junction. Plans also include clearing and surfacing a 24-mile section from Rattlesnake Rock to Waterville with parking areas and restroom facilities.

Phase three of the Pine Creek Trail is a proposed 12-mile section from Waterville to a southern terminus near Jersey Shore.

Facilities such as camp and picnic sites, parking areas, and boat launches, already exist along portions of the trail. The completed and proposed sections of the trail also pass through or near several state parks.

For more information on the Pine Creek Trail, contact the Wellsboro Forest District at (717) 824-2868.

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