Susquehannock Trail System

This rolling, long-distance hiker trail swings an impressive oval through Susquehannock State Forest, visiting Ole Bull and Patterson State Parks, Hammersley Wild Area, and Cherry Springs Fire Tower. On this Allegheny Mountain tour, explore a terrain of moderate relief, with long, even-height ridges cut by sparkling runs that host native brook trout. Maple and beech dominate the second-growth hardwood forests, joined by impressive black cherry trees, stands of hemlock, and planted pine or Norway spruce. Oaks so familiar farther east are notably fewer here. This long-distance loop and its associated spurs offer comfortable travel, incorporating existing foot trails, old and new logging roads, and abandoned logging railroad grades. Although road crossings (mainly forest roads) come at regular intervals, minimal road travel is needed to complete the circuit. Allot at least a week to hike the entire loop; travel is mostly on public land. With multiple access points, shorter hikes and loops are possible. Be aware that side trails can vary in quality, and not all have markers. Special attractions: Full forests, a handful of views, Cherry Springs Fire Tower, access to the Donut Hole Trail and Black Forest Trail System, wildlife sightings, flagstone outcrops, mountain laurel, fall foliage.