How to Hike Susquehannock State Forest

Susquehannock State Forest, nestled in the heart of north-central Pennsylvania, is a sprawling expanse of untouched wilderness that offers hikers a rare blend of solitude, ecological diversity, and historical depth. Spanning over 140,000 acres across Potter and Clinton counties, this forest is not just a recreational destination—it’s a living archive of Appalachian geology, old-growth timber, and native wildlife. Unlike more commercialized parks, Susquehannock remains relatively undiscovered by mainstream tourism, preserving its raw, authentic character. For those seeking a meaningful, immersive hiking experience away from crowded trails and noise, this forest delivers in abundance.

Yet, its very remoteness demands preparation. Without proper guidance, even seasoned hikers can find themselves unprepared for the forest’s rugged terrain, unpredictable weather, and limited signage. This guide is designed to transform that uncertainty into confidence. Whether you’re a first-time backpacker or a veteran trail enthusiast, this comprehensive tutorial will walk you through every critical step—from planning your route to navigating the forest’s hidden gems—ensuring a safe, rewarding, and deeply memorable journey.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Research and Select Your Route

The first and most critical step in hiking Susquehannock State Forest is choosing a trail that matches your experience level, fitness, and goals. Unlike many state parks with clearly marked loop trails, Susquehannock offers a network of unmarked, forest service roads, old logging paths, and faint foot trails. The forest is crisscrossed by over 100 miles of unofficial trails, many of which are not mapped on commercial apps like AllTrails or Gaia GPS.

Begin by consulting the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) website for official trail maps. Focus on the following key access points:

• Big Run Trailhead – Located off PA Route 44 near the town of Coudersport. This is the most popular entry point and provides access to the Big Run Trail, a moderate 5.5-mile loop with views of a cascading stream and old-growth hemlock stands.
• West Branch Trailhead – Accessible via PA Route 120, this area leads to the West Branch Susquehanna River corridor and offers longer multi-day route options.
• Wanich Trail – A lesser-known, primitive trail that connects to the Susquehannock Trail System. Ideal for experienced hikers seeking solitude.

Use topographic maps from USGS or CalTopo to understand elevation changes. Susquehannock’s terrain features steep ridgelines, rocky outcrops, and river valleys with elevation gains exceeding 1,000 feet in short distances. Avoid attempting the higher elevation trails (like the ridge near Mount Davis) unless you have prior experience with off-trail navigation.

2. Obtain Necessary Permits and Check Regulations

Unlike some state parks, Susquehannock State Forest does not require day-use permits for hiking. However, there are important regulations you must follow:

• No camping within 150 feet of any stream, lake, or wetland.
• Open fires are permitted only in designated fire rings or established fire pits. Never build new fire rings.
• Group size is limited to 10 people for overnight stays.
• Motorized vehicles, including ATVs and dirt bikes, are prohibited on all hiking trails.
• Leave No Trace principles are strictly enforced—pack out all waste, including food scraps and toilet paper.

If you plan to camp overnight, notify the local DCNR ranger station in Coudersport or Lock Haven of your itinerary. While not mandatory, this practice significantly improves your safety in case of emergency.

3. Plan Your Transportation and Parking

Accessing Susquehannock requires a vehicle, as public transportation does not serve the forest. Most trailheads are reached via unpaved forest roads that are navigable by standard passenger cars in dry conditions, but a high-clearance vehicle is strongly recommended, especially after rain.

At major trailheads like Big Run, parking is available in designated gravel lots. These lots fill up quickly on weekends and during fall foliage season. Arrive before 8 a.m. to secure a spot. Never park on the shoulder of PA Route 44 or 120—this is illegal and dangerous.

For remote trailheads like Wanich or the abandoned mining roads near Elk Run, GPS coordinates are essential. Download offline maps using Gaia GPS or Avenza Maps. Some trailheads have no signage; relying on Google Maps alone can lead you miles off course.

4. Prepare Your Gear

Proper gear is non-negotiable in Susquehannock. The forest’s weather is notoriously volatile—summer temperatures can soar above 90°F, while overnight lows in May and September regularly dip below 40°F. Wind can whip through the ridges with little warning.

Essential gear includes:

• Navigation tools: Physical topographic map (USGS 7.5-minute series), compass, and GPS device with offline maps. Do not rely solely on smartphone apps.
• Footwear: Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots with ankle support. The forest floor is littered with exposed roots, loose shale, and slick mud.
• Layered clothing: Moisture-wicking base layer, insulating mid-layer (fleece or down), and a waterproof, windproof shell. Avoid cotton.
• Hydration: Minimum 3 liters of water per person. Water sources are abundant but must be filtered. Carry a Sawyer Squeeze or Katadyn BeFree filter.
• Food: High-calorie, lightweight meals. Dehydrated meals, nuts, jerky, and energy bars are ideal. Avoid heavy canned goods.
• Emergency kit: First aid supplies, whistle, emergency blanket, fire starter, headlamp with extra batteries, and a multi-tool.
• Tick and insect protection: Permethrin-treated clothing and DEET-based repellent are mandatory. Lyme disease is prevalent here.

5. Start Your Hike with a Safety Plan

Before stepping onto the trail, complete a simple safety protocol:

1. Leave a detailed itinerary with someone you trust: trail name, start time, expected return time, and emergency contacts.
2. Take a photo of your vehicle’s license plate and parking location.
3. Set a phone alarm for your estimated return time. If you don’t check in, your contact should notify DCNR.
4. Carry a personal locator beacon (PLB) or satellite messenger like Garmin inReach. Cell service is nonexistent in over 80% of the forest.

Once on the trail, hike with awareness. Susquehannock’s trails are rarely blazed. Look for subtle signs: worn dirt paths, flattened vegetation, rock cairns, or the occasional faded orange ribbon tied to a branch. Avoid following animal trails—they often lead to dead ends or steep drop-offs.

6. Navigate the Forest’s Key Landmarks

Several natural and historical features serve as critical reference points:

• Big Run Falls: A 30-foot cascade accessible via a short side trail from the main Big Run Trail. The rocks around the falls are slippery—approach with caution.
• Old Logging Roads: These wide, gravel-packed paths are remnants of early 20th-century timber operations. They’re excellent for orientation and are often the only reliable routes in dense thickets.
• Stone Chimneys: Scattered throughout the forest are the remains of old homesteads. These stone foundations are easy to spot and often mark historical travel routes used by Native Americans and early settlers.
• West Branch Susquehanna River: The river serves as a natural boundary. If you’re lost, heading downstream will eventually lead to a road or populated area.

Use these landmarks to triangulate your position. If you’re unsure of your location, stop, consult your map, and reorient before continuing.

7. Camp Safely and Responsibly

If planning an overnight stay, select a campsite at least 200 feet from water sources and trails. Look for established fire rings or flat, bare ground free of vegetation. Avoid camping under dead trees or in valleys where cold air settles.

Store food in bear-resistant containers or hang it from a tree at least 10 feet off the ground and 4 feet from the trunk. Black bears are present but rarely aggressive—however, improper food storage can attract them and create dangerous situations.

Use a portable toilet or dig a cathole 6–8 inches deep and at least 200 feet from water, trails, and campsites. Pack out all toilet paper in sealed bags. Even biodegradable soap must be used 200 feet from water sources.

8. Exit and Debrief

When returning to your vehicle, take a moment to review your hike:

• Did you stay on your planned route?
• Did you encounter any hazards (downed trees, flash flood zones, unstable rock)?
• Did you leave any gear behind?

Report any trail damage, illegal activity, or safety concerns to the DCNR office. Your feedback helps maintain the forest for future hikers.

Best Practices

Travel in Small Groups

Groups of four to six people are ideal. Larger groups increase environmental impact and make navigation more difficult. Smaller groups allow for quieter, more immersive experiences and reduce the risk of getting separated.

Adopt a “Leave No Trace” Mindset

Susquehannock’s beauty lies in its untouched nature. Follow these seven principles religiously:

1. Plan ahead and prepare.
2. Travel and camp on durable surfaces.
3. Dispose of waste properly.
4. Leave what you find.
5. Minimize campfire impacts.
6. Respect wildlife.
7. Be considerate of other visitors.

Even small actions—like picking wildflowers, carving initials into trees, or feeding animals—have long-term consequences in fragile ecosystems.

Respect Seasonal Closures and Wildlife Cycles

Some areas of the forest are seasonally closed to protect nesting birds, particularly raptors and warblers, between March and July. Check the DCNR website for current closures. Avoid hiking during deer rutting season (November) or bear feeding season (late summer to early fall), as wildlife behavior becomes unpredictable.

Use Non-Motorized Transport

While mountain biking is allowed on designated forest roads, it is prohibited on hiking trails. Respect trail signage and yield to hikers. E-bikes are treated as motorized vehicles and are not permitted on any footpaths.

Practice Silent Hiking

Susquehannock is one of the last places in Pennsylvania where true silence can be experienced. Turn off music, lower your voice, and listen. You’ll hear woodpeckers, brook trout splashing, wind through hemlocks, and the distant cry of a red-tailed hawk. This quietude is part of the forest’s healing power.

Prepare for Rapid Weather Changes

Mountain weather in Susquehannock can shift in minutes. A sunny morning can turn into a thunderstorm by noon. Always carry rain gear, even in summer. If lightning approaches, descend from ridgelines immediately. Avoid open fields and isolated trees.

Tools and Resources

Essential Digital Tools

• CalTopo – The most accurate tool for planning off-trail routes. Upload USGS topo maps and trace your route with elevation profiles.
• Gaia GPS – Offers offline maps and the ability to download DCNR forest boundary layers. Critical for navigation where cell service is absent.
• Avenza Maps – Allows you to download custom PDF maps, including the official Susquehannock State Forest map from DCNR.
• AllTrails – Limited usefulness here due to sparse user-submitted trails, but useful for finding nearby parking and reviews of popular access points.

Physical Resources

• USGS Topographic Maps: Download free PDFs from the USGS Store. Key quadrangles: Coudersport, Elk Run, and Lock Haven.
• DCNR Susquehannock State Forest Map: Available at ranger stations or downloadable from the DCNR website. This is the only official map.
• Field Guide to Pennsylvania Trees and Plants: Helps identify species like hemlock, black birch, and mountain laurel, which dominate the forest.
• “Hiking Pennsylvania’s State Forests” by John J. O’Donnell: A detailed regional guide with historical context and trail descriptions.

Community and Learning Resources

• Pennsylvania Hiking Club – Offers guided hikes and trail maintenance events. Joining gives you access to insider knowledge and updated trail conditions.
• Reddit r/PennsylvaniaHiking – Active community sharing recent trail reports, photos, and warnings about downed trees or washed-out bridges.
• YouTube Channels: “Wilderness Path” and “PA Wilds Explorer” feature real-time hiking videos through Susquehannock, useful for visualizing terrain.

Emergency and Communication Tools

• Garmin inReach Mini 2 – Satellite communicator that allows two-way texting and SOS alerts without cell service.
• SPOT Gen4 – Similar functionality, with a simpler interface for non-tech users.
• Whistle and Signal Mirror – Essential for attracting attention if you’re injured and immobile.
• Emergency Blanket and First Aid Kit – Include trauma dressing, antiseptic wipes, tweezers (for tick removal), and pain relievers.

Real Examples

Example 1: The Big Run Loop – Beginner-Friendly Day Hike

Emma, a 28-year-old graphic designer from Philadelphia, had never hiked outside a state park before. She chose the Big Run Loop after reading about its accessibility and scenic waterfall. She arrived at 7:30 a.m. on a Saturday, parked in the designated lot, and followed the blue-blazed trail.

Using her Gaia GPS app with the DCNR map loaded, she tracked her progress. She packed 3 liters of water, a peanut butter sandwich, and a lightweight rain jacket. She encountered two other hikers and a family with a dog. She stayed on the trail, avoided shortcuts, and took photos only at designated viewpoints.

At the falls, she sat quietly for 20 minutes, listening to the water. She returned to her car by 2 p.m., feeling energized and connected. She later posted her experience on Reddit, helping others understand how accessible Susquehannock can be with proper preparation.

Example 2: The Wanich Trail – Advanced Solo Expedition

Mark, a 45-year-old retired firefighter and seasoned backpacker, embarked on a 3-day solo trek from Wanich Trailhead to the West Branch River. He carried a PLB, a full pack with 4 liters of water, dehydrated meals, and a tarp shelter.

On day two, heavy rain turned the trail to mud. He lost the faint path near a ridge and used his compass to reorient using a known stone chimney landmark. He found a dry spot under a rock overhang, built a small fire using dry birch bark, and cooked dinner.

He didn’t encounter another person for 48 hours. On day three, he followed the river downstream and emerged near a forest service road. He reported a fallen tree blocking a section of the trail to DCNR. His detailed report helped expedite repairs.

Example 3: The Forgotten Homestead – Historical Discovery

A group of four college students from Penn State, studying environmental history, used historical land records to locate an abandoned 19th-century homestead near the eastern edge of the forest. They found the stone foundation, a rusted iron kettle, and a rusted hinge from a door.

They documented the site with photos and GPS coordinates, then reported it to the DCNR’s cultural resources division. The site was later added to the state’s heritage inventory. Their project became a model for student-led conservation research.

FAQs

Is Susquehannock State Forest safe to hike alone?

Yes, but only if you’re experienced, well-prepared, and have communicated your plans. The forest is remote, with no cell service and few other hikers. Solo hikers should carry a satellite messenger, know how to use a map and compass, and avoid hiking in winter or during storms.

Are dogs allowed on the trails?

Yes, dogs are permitted but must be leashed at all times. This protects both your pet and local wildlife, including deer, foxes, and ground-nesting birds. Clean up after your dog and avoid letting them chase animals.

Can I fish in the streams?

Yes, fishing is allowed in the West Branch Susquehanna River and its tributaries with a valid Pennsylvania fishing license. Trout are abundant, and fly fishing is popular. Be sure to check seasonal regulations and catch limits.

Are there any waterfalls or swimming holes?

Big Run Falls is the most accessible waterfall. While the pool below is tempting, swimming is discouraged due to slippery rocks and cold water temperatures. Other smaller cascades exist but are harder to reach and often on private land adjacent to the forest.

When is the best time to hike Susquehannock?

Mid-May to early June and late September to mid-October offer the best conditions: mild temperatures, low bug activity, and vibrant foliage. Summer can be humid and buggy. Winter hiking is possible but requires snowshoes, avalanche awareness, and extreme cold-weather gear.

Are there bears in the forest?

Yes, black bears are common. They are generally shy and avoid humans. Never feed them, store food properly, and make noise while hiking to avoid surprising them. Bear spray is not required but recommended for solo hikers.

What should I do if I get lost?

Stop immediately. Do not keep walking. Use your map and compass to reorient. If you can’t determine your location, stay put. Use your whistle (three blasts) or signal mirror to attract attention. If you have a satellite messenger, activate the SOS function. Most search and rescue teams can locate you within hours if you remain stationary.

Can I bike or use an e-bike on the trails?

Mountain bikes are allowed only on designated forest roads, not hiking trails. E-bikes are classified as motorized vehicles and are prohibited on all footpaths. Always check signage at trailheads.

Is there cell service anywhere in the forest?

Very limited. You may get a signal near PA Route 44 or at the Big Run parking area, but nowhere deeper in the forest. Assume you are completely disconnected. Plan accordingly.

How do I report trail damage or illegal activity?

Contact the DCNR Susquehannock Ranger District at (814) 274-7707 or submit a report via their online form at dcnr.pa.gov. Include photos, GPS coordinates, and a detailed description.

Conclusion

Hiking Susquehannock State Forest is not merely a physical activity—it’s a pilgrimage into one of Pennsylvania’s last wild places. It demands respect, preparation, and humility. Unlike curated trails with handrails and interpretive signs, Susquehannock offers something rarer: the chance to wander without knowing exactly where you’ll end up. It rewards those who listen, observe, and move gently through the land.

This guide has provided you with the tools, knowledge, and real-world examples to navigate its trails safely and meaningfully. But the true essence of Susquehannock cannot be taught—it must be felt. It’s in the quiet rustle of a hemlock branch, the distant echo of a wood thrush, the cool dampness of moss on ancient stone. It’s in the solitude that clears your mind and the challenge that strengthens your spirit.

As you prepare for your journey, remember: you are not conquering the forest. You are visiting it. Leave no trace. Take only memories. And when you return, carry its wildness with you—not as a trophy, but as a reminder of what still exists beyond the noise of the world.