Loyalsock State Forest

With its rugged mountain trails, scenic views, and rushing waterfalls, the Loyalsock State Forest captures the natural beauty of the Endless Mountains. Named for the Loyalsock Creek, this public land encompasses 114,552 acres in Sullivan County and portions of Bradford and Lycoming counties. Maps and guides are available on DCNR’s website.

Hiking

The Loyalsock State Forest is home to nearly 200 miles of trails. The Loyalsock Trail is a challenging 59-mile backpacking trail that travels through the forest. Another popular trail is Old Logger’s Path, a 27-mile hiking trail near the ghost town of Masten.

Even a day hike will reward hikers with scenic views. The Haystacks and Dutchman Falls, located off of US-220 south of Dushore, are a popular, moderate hike with excellent views of the rapids and sandstone rock formations along the Loyalsock Creek. Some views, such as High Knob Overlook and Dry Run Falls, are even accessible by car.

Mountain Biking

Most roads and trails are open to mountain biking, except for the Loyalsock Trail, Old Logger’s Path, and any other trails posted closed to mountain biking.

Horseback Riding

The forest offers a bridle trail with two loops and fifty-two miles to explore. The trailhead and equestrian camping area are located off of Worlds End Road between Worlds End State Park and Eagles Mere. Horseback riding is also permitted on nearly 130 miles of state forest access roads and additional state forest trails.

Fishing & Kayaking

The Loyalsock Creek and Lycoming Creek boast superb trout fishing. Meanwhile, Sones Pond and Bear Wallow Pond are ideal for warm water fishing and ice fishing in the winter. Please follow all Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission seasons and regulations.

Bear Wallow Pond and Sones Pond are open for kayaking and canoeing. Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission regulations apply, and a launch permit is required.

Conditions permitting, Loyalsock Creek is accessible for kayaking. The upper portion features challenging whitewater kayaking in the spring with Class III and Class IV rapids. The lower section below Forksville is gentler with access points at Sandy Bottom (located on Route 87 south of Hillsgrove) and Mags Rocks (located on Jacks Road in Hillsgrove).

Hunting

Hunting is permitted during designated seasons. The forest is well-known for its black bears, although deer, turkeys, grouse, and squirrels are also abundant. Please respect all safety zones and follow PA Game Commission regulations.

Camping

With so much to explore, you’ll want to spend the night under the stars. The Loyalsock State Forest offers several camping options, including roadside camping, roadside hike-in campsites, rustic campsites, equestrian campsites, and primitive backpacking campsites. Permits and reservations are required for motorized, roadside camping and can be found on DCNR’s website. Permits may be required for primitive backpacking camping.

Winter Sports

When conditions are right, snowmobiling is permitted on nearly 130 miles of state forest roads and 16 miles of trails.

The Loyalsock State Forest maintains two trail systems specifically for skiing (although skiers are welcome on all roads and trails). The trailhead on Worlds End Road provides access to 21 miles of cross-country ski trails. The Devils Elbow Natural Area near Shunk offers an additional 15 miles of trails, including the Hawkeye and Sand Springs Trails. Trailhead parking is available on Ellenton Mountain Road.

Roadside waterfall at Dry Run Falls A waterfall and pool at Rock Run

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Outdoor Recreation Guide

Need more information on the Endless Mountains? Request a print copy of the outdoor recreation guide or you can view the guide online.

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