How to Hike Rothrock State Forest

Rothrock State Forest, nestled in the heart of central Pennsylvania, is one of the most diverse and rewarding hiking destinations in the Northeast. Spanning over 136,000 acres across Centre, Huntingdon, and Mifflin counties, this expansive forest offers a rich tapestry of ecosystems—from dense hardwood stands and quiet pine groves to rugged sandstone ridges and cascading mountain streams. Whether you're a novice hiker seeking a gentle woodland stroll or an experienced trail enthusiast chasing panoramic vistas and challenging climbs, Rothrock delivers an unforgettable outdoor experience.

Unlike many state parks that concentrate development around a single core area, Rothrock’s vastness means trails are dispersed, often remote, and require thoughtful planning. This guide is designed to equip you with the knowledge, tools, and confidence to navigate Rothrock State Forest safely and enjoyably. From selecting the right trail to understanding local wildlife, weather patterns, and Leave No Trace principles, this tutorial transforms you from a casual visitor into a prepared, informed hiker.

Proper preparation is not just about comfort—it’s about safety, conservation, and respect. Rothrock’s trails are maintained by volunteers and state crews with limited resources. Your responsible behavior ensures these natural spaces remain pristine for future generations. By mastering the art of hiking Rothrock, you’re not just walking through trees—you’re becoming a steward of one of Pennsylvania’s most ecologically significant landscapes.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Research and Select Your Trail

The first step in hiking Rothrock State Forest is choosing a trail that matches your fitness level, time availability, and interests. Rothrock contains over 120 miles of marked trails, many of which are interconnected and part of larger networks like the Mid State Trail (MST), a 330-mile backbone route that traverses the entire state.

Begin by visiting the official Pennsylvania DCNR website for Rothrock State Forest. Download the interactive trail map or pick up a printed version at the Rothrock Visitor Center near State College. Popular trailheads include:

• Black Moshannon State Park Entrance – Access to the MST and easy loops around the lake
• Shaver’s Creek Entrance – Ideal for birdwatchers and those seeking educational trail signage
• Little Pine Creek Trailhead – Gateway to steep climbs and rocky ridgelines
• Big Run Trailhead – Best for solitude and water features

For beginners, try the 1.2-mile Lake Loop at Black Moshannon. It’s flat, well-maintained, and offers interpretive signs about wetland ecology. Intermediate hikers should attempt the 10-mile Big Run Loop, which ascends through mixed forest and crosses several small streams. Advanced hikers can tackle the 22-mile section of the Mid State Trail from Big Run to Shade Mountain—a full-day challenge with over 3,000 feet of elevation gain.

Always note trail difficulty ratings, estimated time, and whether the route is one-way or looped. Some trails are blazed with colored paint on trees: blue for MST, white for secondary paths, and yellow for short connectors. Carry a physical map—even GPS signals can fail in dense canopy.

Step 2: Plan Your Timing

Timing is critical. Rothrock’s weather shifts rapidly due to its elevation and forested terrain. Spring (April–May) brings wildflowers and muddy trails; summer (June–August) is hot and humid with high insect activity; fall (September–October) offers crisp air and brilliant foliage; winter (November–March) transforms trails into icy, snow-covered routes requiring specialized gear.

For most hikers, late spring and early fall are ideal. Avoid midday in summer—temperatures under the canopy can exceed 90°F. Start hikes before 9 a.m. to avoid heat buildup and afternoon thunderstorms, which are common in July and August.

Check the National Weather Service’s State College forecast the night before. Wind speeds above 15 mph can make ridge trails uncomfortable. Rainfall predictions matter too—wet conditions increase slip hazards on sandstone and turn dirt trails into slick mudslides.

Step 3: Prepare Your Gear

Unlike urban trails, Rothrock’s paths often lack amenities. You won’t find restrooms, water fountains, or emergency phones along most routes. Your gear must be self-sufficient.

Essential items:

• Navigation: Topographic map (USGS 7.5-minute series), compass, and offline GPS app like Gaia GPS or AllTrails Pro
• Footwear: Sturdy hiking boots with ankle support and aggressive tread—trail runners are insufficient for rocky sections
• Hydration: Minimum 2 liters of water per person; add a portable water filter (e.g., Sawyer Squeeze) for refilling from streams
• Food: High-energy snacks (nuts, jerky, energy bars); avoid sugary items that cause energy crashes
• Clothing: Moisture-wicking base layers, insulating mid-layer, waterproof shell. Avoid cotton—it retains moisture and increases hypothermia risk
• Emergency kit: First aid supplies, whistle, emergency blanket, headlamp with extra batteries, fire starter, multi-tool
• Trail etiquette gear: Trash bag (pack out everything), hand sanitizer, toilet paper, trowel for catholes (if using the bathroom off-trail)

Wear bright colors—neon orange or lime green—to remain visible to other hikers and forest rangers. Camouflage is unnecessary and may cause confusion with hunters during deer season (November–December).

Step 4: Notify Someone of Your Plans

Always tell a friend or family member your intended route, trailhead, and expected return time. If you don’t return within a reasonable window (e.g., 2 hours past your ETA), they can alert authorities. This simple step has saved countless lives in remote areas like Rothrock.

Use a digital tool like Find My (Apple) or Google Location Sharing to share your real-time location with a trusted contact. Even if your phone dies, the last known location can guide search teams.

Step 5: Begin Your Hike with Purpose

Arrive at your trailhead at least 15 minutes before your planned start time. Use this window to:

• Double-check your gear
• Review your route on the map
• Take a photo of the trailhead sign for reference
• Hydrate and eat a small snack

Start slow. Many hikers injure themselves in the first 30 minutes by rushing uphill or stepping on loose rocks. Maintain a steady pace—your goal is endurance, not speed.

Use trail markers consistently. Blue blazes indicate the Mid State Trail. If you miss a blaze, stop immediately. Backtrack 50–100 feet. Do not guess. Rothrock’s trail system is complex; a single wrong turn can lead to hours of detour or dangerous terrain.

Step 6: Navigate Challenging Terrain

Rothrock’s terrain varies dramatically. You’ll encounter:

• Sandstone outcrops: Slippery when wet. Use hands for balance; avoid stepping on moss-covered rocks
• Root networks: Tripping hazards. Watch your step and keep your gaze 5–10 feet ahead
• Stream crossings: Test depth with a stick. Cross diagonally upstream to reduce current force. Remove shoes only if necessary and use trekking poles
• Steep ascents/descents: Use switchbacks. Never cut corners—this erodes trails and damages vegetation

When climbing, plant your trekking poles firmly before shifting weight. On descents, keep your center of gravity low and step with your whole foot—not just your heel or toe.

Step 7: Practice Leave No Trace Principles

Respect for nature is non-negotiable in Rothrock. Follow these seven principles:

1. Plan ahead and prepare – Know regulations, weather, and terrain
2. Travel and camp on durable surfaces – Stay on marked trails; avoid trampling moss or wildflowers
3. Dispose of waste properly – Pack out all trash, including food scraps and toilet paper
4. Leave what you find – Do not pick plants, move rocks, or carve into trees
5. Minimize campfire impact – Fires are only permitted in designated fire rings. Use a stove instead
6. Respect wildlife – Observe from a distance. Never feed animals
7. Be considerate of other visitors – Yield to uphill hikers. Keep noise low. Let others enjoy the silence

Even biodegradable soap can harm aquatic life. Wash dishes and yourself at least 200 feet from streams.

Step 8: End Your Hike Safely

As you near your endpoint, don’t relax. Most accidents happen in the final 10% of a hike due to fatigue. Slow down. Check your gear. Hydrate again.

Before leaving the trailhead:

• Take a photo of your completed route on your map
• Update your contact about your safe return
• Wipe down boots to remove invasive seeds (e.g., burdock, garlic mustard)
• Report any trail damage, downed trees, or hazardous conditions to DCNR via their online portal

Reflect on your experience. What worked? What would you change? Journaling builds awareness and improves future hikes.

Best Practices

Know the Seasons and Wildlife Activity

Rothrock is home to black bears, white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, bobcats, and over 200 bird species. In spring and summer, ticks are prevalent—especially along moist, shaded trails. Lyme disease is a real risk. Wear permethrin-treated clothing and perform full-body tick checks after every hike.

Bear activity peaks in late summer and fall as they forage for acorns and berries. Store food in bear-resistant containers or hang it 10 feet off the ground and 4 feet from tree trunks. Never leave food unattended—even for a minute. Bears in Rothrock have learned to associate humans with easy meals.

During deer season (November–December), wear blaze orange even if you’re not hunting. Many trails remain open to hunters, and accidents occur when hikers wear dark colors.

Understand Trail Etiquette

On narrow trails, the rule is simple: uphill hikers have right-of-way. Why? It’s harder to regain momentum climbing than descending. Step aside and let them pass.

Keep dogs on a leash. Off-leash dogs can chase wildlife, disturb nesting birds, or provoke territorial animals. Even well-behaved dogs can trigger a bear response. Some trails prohibit dogs entirely—check signage.

Group size matters. Keep groups to six or fewer. Larger groups create noise pollution and damage trail edges. If you’re with a big group, split into smaller units spaced 10–15 minutes apart.

Hydration and Nutrition Strategies

Dehydration is the leading cause of hiking emergencies in Rothrock. Don’t wait until you’re thirsty to drink. Sip 6–8 ounces every 20 minutes, even if you don’t feel hot.

Electrolytes are critical on long hikes. Pack salted nuts, electrolyte tablets, or homemade mix (water + pinch of salt + lemon juice + honey). Avoid sugary sports drinks—they cause stomach upset and energy crashes.

For hikes over 5 miles, bring 1–2 energy-dense meals. Trail mix with dried fruit, seeds, and dark chocolate is ideal. Avoid heavy, greasy foods. Your digestive system slows during exertion.

Weather Adaptation Techniques

Rothrock’s microclimates mean conditions can change drastically over a few hundred feet. A sunny ridge can be foggy and cold just 10 minutes down the trail.

Use the “onion layering” method: base layer (synthetic or merino wool), mid-layer (fleece or down), outer shell (waterproof and windproof). Remove layers before you sweat. Adding layers after you’re damp is dangerous.

In rain, cover your pack with a waterproof liner or rain cover. Wet gear = wet body = hypothermia risk. Use a dry bag for electronics and spare clothes.

Trail Maintenance and Volunteerism

Many trails in Rothrock rely on volunteer trail crews. Consider joining a DCNR trail maintenance day. Tasks include clearing blowdowns, repainting blazes, and building water bars to prevent erosion.

Even small actions help: pick up a few pieces of litter on your way out. Report trail damage via the DCNR website. Your participation sustains the forest.

Tools and Resources

Official DCNR Resources

The Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) is the primary source for accurate, up-to-date information:

• Rothrock State Forest Homepage – Trail maps, alerts, regulations
• Interactive Trail Map – Downloadable PDFs and GPS-compatible files
• Current Alerts – Trail closures, fire bans, hunting notices

Mobile Apps for Navigation

While paper maps are essential backups, digital tools enhance safety and efficiency:

• Gaia GPS – Offers topographic layers, offline maps, and route recording. Premium version includes Rothrock-specific trail overlays
• AllTrails Pro – User reviews, photos, elevation profiles, and real-time trail conditions
• CalTopo – Advanced mapping for route planning. Ideal for multi-day treks
• Relief Maps – 3D terrain visualization to understand elevation changes before you hike

Download maps before entering the forest. Cell service is spotty or nonexistent beyond major access roads.

Recommended Books and Guides

• “Hiking Pennsylvania’s Rothrock State Forest” by John R. Wilson – Detailed trail descriptions, historical context, and ecological notes
• “The Mid State Trail: A Hiker’s Guide” by Dave Hall – Covers the entire MST, including Rothrock’s most rugged sections
• “Leave No Trace: A Guide to the New Wilderness Etiquette” by LNT Center – Essential reading for responsible outdoor ethics

Local Outdoor Retailers and Clubs

Support local businesses and connect with experienced hikers:

• State College Outfitters – Rent gear, buy maps, attend free weekly trail talks
• Central PA Hiking Club – Organizes group hikes, trail cleanups, and skill-building workshops
• Shaver’s Creek Environmental Center – Offers guided nature walks and educational programs

Weather and Trail Condition Tools

• NWS State College Forecast – Precise local conditions
• Mountain Forecast – Wind, precipitation, and temperature at elevation
• US Hiking Trail Conditions – Crowdsourced updates from recent hikers

Real Examples

Example 1: The First-Time Hiker – Sarah’s Lake Loop

Sarah, a 28-year-old teacher from Philadelphia, had never hiked beyond city parks. She chose the 1.2-mile Lake Loop at Black Moshannon after reading it was “easy and scenic.”

She packed a water bottle, phone, and a light jacket. She didn’t bring a map, assuming GPS would suffice. Halfway around the loop, her phone died. She panicked, walked in circles, and nearly stepped into a hidden sinkhole.

She was found by a DCNR volunteer who gave her a map and escorted her back. Sarah later returned with proper gear: boots, map, compass, and snacks. She now leads monthly nature walks for her students.

Lesson: Never rely solely on technology. Always carry physical navigation tools.

Example 2: The Experienced Hiker – Mark’s Big Run Loop

Mark, a 45-year-old engineer and avid backpacker, planned a 10-mile loop on the Big Run Trail. He checked the weather, packed a full kit, and told his wife his return time.

Halfway through, a sudden thunderstorm rolled in. He found a dry overhang, put on his rain gear, and waited 45 minutes. He used his GPS to confirm his location and waited for the rain to ease.

He finished the hike safely and reported a fallen tree blocking the trail to DCNR. His report helped expedite repairs.

Lesson: Preparation allows you to respond calmly to emergencies. Reporting hazards helps others.

Example 3: The Unprepared Group – The “Just a Quick Walk” Mistake

A group of four college students decided to “just walk a little way” on the Shade Mountain Trail after a night out. They wore sneakers, carried only water, and had no map. They got lost after missing a trail junction.

They spent 10 hours in the forest overnight. One student suffered mild hypothermia. Search teams located them at dawn using their last known phone ping.

They were fined for trespassing on a closed trail section and required to attend a DCNR safety seminar.

Lesson: There is no such thing as “just a quick walk” in Rothrock. Underestimating the forest has consequences.

Example 4: The Volunteer – Elena’s Trail Restoration

Elena, a retired teacher, joined a DCNR trail crew to repair erosion on the Little Pine Creek Trail. Over three weekends, she helped build water bars, clear debris, and repaint blazes.

She documented her work with photos and shared them on social media, inspiring 12 others to volunteer. Her efforts improved trail safety and reduced maintenance costs for the state.

Lesson: Conservation is a shared responsibility. Small actions create lasting impact.

FAQs

Can I hike Rothrock State Forest in the winter?

Yes, but only with proper gear. Snowshoes or microspikes are essential. Trails become icy and navigation is harder due to snow cover. Some trails close during heavy snowfall. Check DCNR alerts before heading out.

Are dogs allowed on all trails?

No. Dogs are permitted on most trails but must be leashed at all times. They are prohibited on certain sensitive ecological trails and in designated wildlife zones. Always check trail signage.

Is there cell service in Rothrock?

Spotty at best. You may get a signal near parking lots or major roads, but deep in the forest, coverage is nonexistent. Rely on offline maps and satellite communicators for emergencies.

Do I need a permit to hike?

No. Rothrock State Forest is open to the public without a permit. However, certain activities like camping, fishing, or hunting require separate licenses.

Can I camp in Rothrock State Forest?

Yes, but only in designated areas. Primitive camping is allowed along the Mid State Trail with a free permit from DCNR. No fires are allowed outside of established fire rings.

What should I do if I see a bear?

Stay calm. Do not run. Speak firmly, wave your arms, and back away slowly. Never turn your back. If the bear approaches, use bear spray if you have it. Report the sighting to DCNR.

Are there restrooms on the trails?

Only at major trailheads and picnic areas. Most backcountry trails have no facilities. Use a cathole 6–8 inches deep, 200 feet from water, and pack out toilet paper.

Is hiking Rothrock safe for solo hikers?

Yes, if you’re prepared. Solo hiking is common and encouraged for experienced hikers. Always inform someone of your plans. Avoid hiking alone during hunting season unless wearing blaze orange.

What’s the best time of year to see wildflowers?

Early May to mid-June. Look for trillium, lady’s slipper orchids, and wild geraniums in shaded, moist areas. Black Moshannon and the Big Run Trail are prime spots.

Can I bring a drone?

No. Drone use is prohibited in all Pennsylvania state forests without a special permit, which is rarely granted for recreational purposes.

Conclusion

Hiking Rothrock State Forest is more than a physical activity—it’s a deep engagement with nature’s rhythms, challenges, and beauty. This forest doesn’t reward haste or carelessness. It rewards patience, preparation, and respect.

From the first step on a mossy trail to the final glance at a sunset over the ridge, every moment in Rothrock offers a lesson. You learn to read the land, listen to the wind, and understand your own limits. You learn that nature isn’t a backdrop—it’s a living, breathing system that requires your stewardship.

By following this guide, you’re not just learning how to hike—you’re learning how to be present. How to move quietly through the world. How to leave no trace but footprints. How to carry wonder in your pack and gratitude in your heart.

The trails of Rothrock will change you. They’ve changed generations before you. They’ll change those who come after. Your journey begins now—with a map in hand, boots laced, and a quiet mind. Step forward. The forest is waiting.