Trails at Jakes Rocks

Description

Jakes Rocks is considered by some to be the best network of mountain biking trails in the state, and for good reason. These singletrack routes were built relatively recently (2016 or later) and are designed for smooth and speedy biking, with plenty of drops, jumps, and turns along the way. The network’s stacked looped design–a dense web of trails with many connections–means that visitors can choose from a huge variety of loops to find the route that best suits their ability level. Along the way, bikers–or hikers–will encounter all the wonders of Allegheny National Forest. Lush Mountain Laurel and colorful fungi dot the trailside, and glorious views of the Allegheny Reservoir and the Kinzua Dam greet guests at every turn. Even the drive to get here is beautiful, as visitors take in sights from the Longhouse National Scenic Byway on their way to the trails. It’s easy to see why Jakes Rocks draws in more than 25,000 users every year and was named Pennsylvania’s Trail of the Year in 2024. Some of the network’s longest and most popular trails are described below.

Elijah (moderate, 5.8 miles): The Elijah Trail extends both east and west from Forest Road 263, offering a casual adventure in either direction. To the east, it stretches 3.3 miles to the aforementioned Longhouse Drive, while the western path links users back to Coal Knob Trail and the rest of the Jakes Rocks network. Either way, you’ll get a taste for some rolling hills and rocky terrain without any steep climbs to dampen the fun.

Tuttletown (easy, 2.5 miles): The Tuttletown Trail is one of the best trails for those new to mountain biking, but both beginner and veteran riders can enjoy this mostly flat trail, punctuated with occasional rolling hills and views of the Allegheny Reservoir through the surrounding Mountain Laurel. It loosely parallels Forest Road 160 and connects to the Coal Knob Trail at both ends to form a 4.8-mile loop.

Coal Knob (easy, 2.3 miles): This trail climbs its namesake hill, the Coal Knob, through the midst of Jakes Rocks. Though not overly technical, it does offer a stretch of steep and rocky trail, complete with some optional rock drops along the trailside. Along with Tuttletown, it loosely parallels FR-160 and can be used to form a loop.

Bald Eagle (advanced, 2.2 miles): Bald Eagle is perhaps the best explanation for how Jakes Rocks got its name. An extremely stony surface challenges bikers as they detour from Elijah, climb up to a lovely overlook, and then descend back to the main path.

Ursus (strenuous, 1.2 miles): Ursus is among the most popular trails at Jakes Rocks, and for good reason. This challenging descent is extremely technically difficult, with a diverse terrain of rocks, jumps, and even wooden bridges that will put riders to the test. To get the full effect, begin at Longhouse Trail and make your way down a series of switchbacks.

Blacksnake (advanced, 0.6 mile): Blacksnake is unique as the only single-directional trail at Jakes Rocks. It’s also a gravity trail, meaning that there is absolutely no elevation gain for the entire route–it truly is “all downhill from here.” Despite its short length, Blacksnake features a number of optional drops and jumps, including the 4-foot Epiphany Drop. Those brave enough to attempt this trail will eventually reach its conclusion at the sinisterly named Devil’s Elbow junction, which allows users to connect back into the rest of the Jakes Rocks trails.

Other Information

Water: Be aware that there is no water provided at the Trails at Jakes Rocks. Guests must supply their own hydration.

Amenities: Vault toilets, picnic tables, and grills are available at the main trailhead.

E-Bikes: Only Class 1 (pedal assist, 20mph max) e-bikes are allowed on the trails at Jakes Rocks.

Trail Manager

This trail is managed by the U.S. Forest Service (Allegheny National Forest office). For more information, visit the Allegheny National Forest Website. Contact the U.S. Forest Service at sm.fs.anf@usda.gov.