Welcome!
Black Moshannon State Park, located in Centre County, Pennsylvania, spans over 3,400 acres of forests, wetlands, and the 250-acre Black Moshannon Lake. The park's diverse ecosystem, including one of the largest bogs in Pennsylvania, provides a unique backdrop for hiking enthusiasts. With over 20 miles of trails, the park offers a variety of experiences, from easy nature walks to challenging backcountry routes.
Trails Overview:
Moss-Hanne Trail (7.7 miles) – This moderate-to-difficult trail winds through wetlands, forests, and meadows, showcasing the park’s rich biodiversity. Boardwalk sections allow hikers to traverse the bog without disturbing the delicate environment.
Bog Trail (0.6 miles) – A short, easy walk featuring a boardwalk that leads through the park’s wetland area, providing stunning views of unique plant life such as carnivorous pitcher plants and rare orchids. It’s a prime spot for birdwatching.
Star Mill Trail (2.1 miles) – A moderate hike following an old logging road, this trail passes remnants of the area’s industrial past while offering views of Black Moshannon Creek.
Indian Trail (1 mile) – Leads travelers through changing scenery of open oak woods, pines, clearings and an unusual grove of hawthorns.
Shingle Mill Trail (4.1 miles) – Following Black Moshannon Creek, this moderately challenging trail showcases waterfalls, rock formations, and lush forest scenery. It’s especially beautiful in autumn.
Allegheny Front Trail (13.1 miles in the park, part of a 40-mile loop) – This long-distance trail offers stunning overlooks of the Allegheny Plateau and runs through sections of the park, appealing to backpackers and experienced hikers.
During winter, many trails are used for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, while the park’s bog area attracts wildlife enthusiasts year-round.
Park History:
The name “Black Moshannon” comes from the Native American word "Moss-Hanne," meaning "moose stream," referring to the dark, tannin-stained waters of the lake and creek. The area was originally home to Native American tribes before European settlers arrived in the 18th century. During the 19th and early 20th centuries, extensive logging took place in the region, depleting much of the forest.
In the 1930s, the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) played a crucial role in restoring the land, constructing roads, trails, and recreational facilities. Black Moshannon State Park was officially established in 1937, and today, it serves as a protected area for wildlife conservation, outdoor recreation, and historical preservation.
Make camping reservations on the DCNR site.
Check out a park-wide events calendar hosted by DCNR.
Check out the Black Moshannon State Park Facebook page for regular updates on conditions and closures.
Black Moshannon State Park is managed by Pennsylvania DCNR - Black Moshannon State Park. Trail and State Park management can be contacted at blackmoshannonsp@pa.gov with questions or concerns.
Park Entrance: 4216 Beaver Road, Philipsburg, PA 16866. The park entrance is along PA Route 504 (Black Moshannon Road), which connects to U.S. Route 322 near Philipsburg.
The park has many entrances and the office has great information that can assist visitors.
