Rachel Skonecki hiked this trail in 2021
The Old Loggers Path is a moderate 27-mile loop hike in northern Pennsylvania. The loop traverses a primarily wooded area, passing waterfalls and vistas along rolling hills, and can be hiked in 2-3 days.
Region: Mid-Atlantic (Loyalsock State Forest, Pennsylvania)
Length: 27 Miles (2-3 Days)
Physical Difficulty: Moderate
- Some moderate inclines and declines
- Pleasant Stream might pose a challenge to cross depending on recent rainfall and weather
- Plenty of reliable water sources (some seasonal streams may not be available year-round)
Logistical Difficulty: Easy
- Loop hike with parking at trailhead
- Well-maintained trail with orange blazes
- Dispersed camping allowed throughout with two lean-tos available on a first-come, first-served basis
- Spotty cell phone reception (including from the forest entry to the trailhead parking)
- No permits required
Season: Spring, Summer, Fall
Total Elevation Gain: 3,727 feet
Hiking the Old Loggers Path
Permits: Not required
The Old Loggers Path is a lovely 27-mile loop hike that can be completed in either a clockwise or counterclockwise direction over 2-3 days. Our group of 5 hikers (a mix of beginner and moderate skill levels) enjoyed the wooded path, beautiful vistas, creek crossings, and inclines and descents along the way. The trail is very well-maintained and blazed in orange with signage at key intervals, especially when crossing logging roads.
Our first day took us about 10 miles from the trailhead at Masten Road and Pleasant Stream Road to the creek crossing at Pleasant Stream. There were two notable climbs to Sprout Point Vista (just off trail) and Sharp Top Vista. There is a lean-to near Sprout Point Vista, available on a first-come basis for camping, but no convenient water source. Sharp Top Vista offers impressive views and an excellent opportunity for a snack break. The trail continues downhill from Sharp Top to Pleasant Stream. There are established sites with spots for several tents available on both sides of Pleasant Stream. Depending on the amount of recent rain the stream crossing should be fairly easily, with crossing options both up and down stream. During our crossing, the water was about knee-deep in some spots (for this 5-foot, 4-inch hiker), but not very rapid. Farther up and down stream there were additional crossing options.
Day two took our group another 10ish miles from Pleasant Stream, up a climb to Sullivan Mountain, then back down (steep at times) to follow Rock Run Stream. The Sullivan Mountain lookout offered another stunning view of the valley, although be sure to follow the trail closely back into the woods as the turn off the road can be easily overlooked. There are many dispersed sites along the trail as you follow Rock Run, in addition to the first-come, first-served Doe Run Shelter (about mile 17). Our group chose a site with waterfall views where Hawk Run meets Rock Run. This site was a bit of a squeeze for three tents, but doable.
Day three was the final seven miles back to the trailhead. The majority of the day was uphill until the final two-mile descent back to the parking lot. Neither of these were especially steep.
Overall, the Old Loggers Path is an excellent loop hike with moderate terrain and convenient logistics that make for a wonderful (long) weekend trip. Be sure to sign the logbooks along the way to help track trail utilization.
Getting to the Old Loggers Path
Nearest City: Williamsport, Pennsylvania (34 miles south of the trailhead)
Trailhead: Near the Masten Camping Area at the intersection of Masten Road and Pleasant Stream Road. The trailhead is well-marked and there is ample parking space. Masten Camping Area provides some picnic tables and fireplace. Map it here.
When to Hike the Old Loggers Path
Old Loggers Path is best hiked from spring to fall, but can be hiked in winter too. As long as the state forest roads are passable, the trail is accessible. Our group hiked it April 30 to May 2, 2021, and experienced a range of temperatures (sleeting/hail and 30 degrees at night, to sunny and 60 during the day). Bugs will be bothersome in the spring, especially after rainfall, and in the summer be especially aware of rattlesnakes.
One-Day Itinerary: With an early start and a light pack, this loop can be completed in one day. At least one trail runner passed us doing just this.
Two-Day Itinerary: Start in either direction and camp at a dry site at Sullivan Mountain (13-14 miles per day).
Three-Day Itinerary: Start clockwise from trailhead at Masten Campground to Pleasant Stream (10 miles). Pleasant Stream to Rock Run Stream (10-11 miles). Rock Run Stream to Masten Campground trailhead (6-7 miles).
Old Loggers Path Terrain
Old Loggers Path traverses the Loyalsock State Forest and is mostly wooded. There are several vistas overlooking the surrounding rolling hills and valleys in addition to beautiful streams and waterfalls. The trail is very well-maintained with orange blazes.
Old Loggers Path Logistics: Resupply, Water, Land Management
Logistics are fairly straightforward for this trip. You will need a car to get to the trailhead, but will return to it at the trailhead upon completion of the loop. Expect minimal cell phone coverage once you enter the state forest.
Resupply Strategy: None needed. There are no convenient access points into any town, nor are they necessary due to the mileage and loop nature of the trail. Plan to carry what you will need for your entire journey.
Land Type: The Old Loggers Path is entirely contained in the Loyalsock State Forest. There are no fees associated to access the land or trailhead, and camping is readily available. It is on the native land of the Susquehannock people.
Water Sources: There is year-round reliable water at Pleasant Stream (mile 0, trailhead), Pleasant Stream (mile 10), all along Rock Run (~20) and numerous seasonal streams throughout the trail. Water is typically plentiful with no long carries.
Know Before You Go
Note that fires are prohibited (with a “soft ban”) in Pennsylvania state forests from March 1 to May 25 due to fire danger. You may receive verbal permission to have a fire during this time frame if weather conditions permit by calling the state forest office at 570-946-4049 prior to your trip.
Resources:
Rachel began as a weekend warrior backpacker and has since evolved into a 2020 PCT NOGOer and a successful 2021 Colorado Trail thru-hiker. Currently she works full time in Corporate America, eagerly awaiting her next outdoor adventure.
