DCNR and the Keystone Trails Association is celebrating PA Hiking Week from May 30 to June 7. Among many guided hikes planned across the commonwealth will be a 4.5-mile trek on June 7 along mountainous trails in the Loyalsock State Forest near Hillsgrove in Sullivan County. Highlights of the hike will include views of the falls along Dutters Run (above).
As summer weather entrenches itself and vegetation returns to the forests, DCNR and the Keystone Trails Association are encouraging fans of the outdoors to visit the commonwealth’s numerous state parks and take a hike! PA Hiking Week runs from Saturday, May 30 to Sunday, June 7.
The celebration in Sullivan County will culminate with a 4.5-mile loop hike in the Loyalsock State Forest on Sunday, June 7 that will cover parts of the Loyalsock Trail, Old Bark Trail, and Dutters Trail. Highlights of the moderately-difficult trek will include Mary’s View, Dutters Falls, and Dry Run Falls.
Loyalsock State Forest technician Matt Crosbie, who will lead the hike, hopes to help participants experience and appreciate the beauty of the area, as well learn some things about the forest, the history of the area, and other recreational opportunities in the state’s forests.
Participants should meet Crosbie at the Loyalsock Trail parking lot on Dry Run Road (3.1 miles off Rt. 87 near Hillsgrove or 2.8 miles from World’s End Road) before 11 am. The walk is expected to take about five hours. Participants should wear sturdy footwear, weather-appropriate clothing, and tick repellent, and bring plenty of drinking water and a snack or lunch.
The Loyalsock Hike is one of nearly 100 scheduled hikes across the state and will be held rain or shine. For more information, Crosbie can be reached at 570-946-4049, ext. 230 and at mcrosbie@pa.gov.
Special events for PA Hike Week include night hikes, wildflower walks, hikes for people with disabilities, pet walks, geology walks, and more. In addition state parks and forests, there are guided events planned along the Appalachian Trail, in Allegheny National Forest, and in some city and community parks. For more information, interested readers can log on to http://www.explorepatrails.com/hikingweek.aspx.
The Loyalsock Trail is a 60-mile footpath through the wilder portions of the state forest.
Treasures along the Loyalsock Trail include stunning vistas like Mary’s View (above)