Welcome!
The Black Forest Trail is an orange-blazed, 43-mile loop hike located in Pennsylvania's Tiadaghton State Forest. It's considered by many as the most prized hiking trail of the Pennsylvania Wilds. Old-growth hemlock trees once grew so thick in these woods that the sunlight couldn't reach the forest floor, hence the name "Black Forest Trail". Now, many of these forest giants are gone due to logging activity and forest fires, but over time the forest has rejuvenated and now much of the forest canopy is made up of hardwood trees.
One can expect to see many stunning mountain views, dense forests, expansive wildlife (flora and fauna), awe-inspiring waterfalls, and fun stream crossings along the trail, especially the section which travels along the "Pennsylvania Grand Canyon" formed by the ever-moving Pine Creek at the Gorge's foot. These views won't come without some work, though. Hikers can look forward to 8,550 feet of elevation gain throughout the loop with a peak elevation of 2,145 feet. Users should be prepared to hike for no less than 3-4 days.
The best season to hike the Black Forest Trail would be from late spring to fall. Dangers on the trail include flooding, so be wary if visiting after heavy rain events. Also for this reason, it's suggested to bring quick-drying trail running shoes as compared to hiking boots.
Wildlife: Beware of a large bear population along the trail as well. Bears, in fact, that would love nothing more than to make off with your food. Be sure to hang your food bag properly at night. Rattlesnakes are another frequenter of the area, especially in rocky and sunny areas like south-facing outcroppings. Without too much paranoia, hikers should watch the trail ahead closely in these areas. Stinging nettle also grows in the wet mountain valleys along the trail. It is suggested to wear long pants or keep a distance.
Water: The Black Forest Trail follows many untouched mountain streams, so hikers are almost always within close distance of a fresh water stream. That said, it is important to bring a water filter since giardia and bacteria are a concern.
Campsites must be at least 200' from any stream or other open water source.
All campsites should be out of sight of the trail.
No permits are required to camp as long s you plan to stay only one night at each campsite.
Practice "Leave No Trace" guidelines.
Fun Fact:
Portions of this trail follow foot paths originally constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s
The Black Forest Trail is managed by DCNR - Tiadaghton State Forest. They can be contacted at fd12@pa.gov with questions about the trail and surrounding area.
Keystone Trails Association also works with Tiadaghton State Forest by maintaining and clearing sections of the trail with yearly weekend trail crews. KTA also hosts a Trail Care website. Here, there is a link to report any adverse trail conditions on hiking trails, and KTA will take care of the issue or forward it to the appropriate land manager.
PA Route 44 Trailhead (South Terminus): There is a small parking area along PA Route 44 at Old Refuge Line Trail. Best used for resupplies.
Slate Run: As you turn off Route 414 and onto Slate Run Road, look for a sign that says Slate Run Recreational Parking. You should see it on your right before you cross the bridge over Pine Creek.
Other parking locations are located in the woods. There is a chance of critters like porcupines chewing your brake cables, so it's encouraged to avoid these areas if possible.
