2026 Walks

Meet the Giants

DAY: Sunday October 4, 2026

TIME: 2pm to 3pm

WALK ADDRESS and/or GPS COORDINATES OF WHERE THE WALK WILL START: 247 Raccoon Creek Road, Monaca, PA 15061

BRIEF DESCRIPTION (terrain level and estimated mileage):

Terrain: Moderate | Estimated mileage: 1 miles

Join Independence Conservancy for a “Walk in Penn’s Woods” to “Meet the Giants,” the towering trees of Rocky Bend. Doug France, Independence Conservancy’s Land Steward, will lead this year’s walk through the forested floodplain at Rocky Bend, highlighting its giant sycamores, oaks, sassafras and hemlocks.

Assemble in the gravel parking lot of Rocky Bend Nature Preserve, 247 Raccoon Creek Road, Potter Township, Monaca, PA 15061.

ACCESSIBILITY OF WALK: This guided walk is about one mile over mowed grass with a few short, moderate climbs. A restroom is available. Dress for the weather and wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes or boots. No rain date. Event is free; donations are appreciated. Terrain is not suitable for wheelchairs or strollers. People-friendly leashed pets are welcome; owners must clean up after their pets.

PETS ALLOWED: All pets on public property must comply with PA Leash laws.

CONTACT FOR MORE QUESTIONS: Doug France - info@independenceconservancy.org 412-279-6768

Learning from Deer Exclosures: A Walk in Plummer's Hollow

DAY: Sunday October 4, 2026

TIME: 9am to 1pm

WALK ADDRESS and/or GPS COORDINATES OF WHERE THE WALK WILL START: Entrance to Plummer's Hollow: 40°39'54.9"N 78°13'47.2"W

BRIEF DESCRIPTION (terrain level and estimated mileage):

Terrain: Moderate | Estimated mileage: 2 miles

This walk should be of particular interest to other landowners and land managers, but anyone who enjoys exploring the natural world should come away with a better understanding of how deer browsing affects nearly everything we see in Penn's Woods. We will examine four different deer exclosures of varying ages and sizes, and discuss other strategies for protecting native trees, shrubs and forbs from white-tailed deer, as well, including some lessons from our hunting program. And we'll point out numerous native species that have benefited from reduced browse pressure.

On US Rt. 453 half a mile east of Tyrone, look for a narrow, one-lane bridge across the Little Juniata River—the beginning of Plummers Hollow Road. Follow it up and across the railroad tracks to our gate, which will be open, and into a small parking area where we will hopefully leave a few cars before proceeding up the hollow. The gate will be closed again at 9:15, so don't be late! The walk will begin a mile and a half up from the entrance.

ACCESSIBILITY OF WALK: Uneven terrain and a bit of a climb will make this challenging to anyone in a wheelchair or using a stroller. That said, one of the two hike leaders, Marcia Bonta, is 86. Any reasonably fit person should be able to do this.

CONTACT FOR MORE QUESTIONS: Dave Bonta - bontasaurus@yahoo.com 814-660-9638

Walk in Penn's Woods at Glade Run Lake

DAY: Sunday October 4, 2026

TIME: 2pm to 4pm

WALK ADDRESS and/or GPS COORDINATES OF WHERE THE WALK WILL START: Glade Run Lake Trailhead; Lake Road, Valencia, PA 16059

BRIEF DESCRIPTION (terrain level and estimated mileage):

Terrain: Moderate | Estimated mileage: 2 miles

Join a DCNR forester for a walk along the trail at Glade Run Lake in Butler County! This 2-mile out and back walk will highlight the trees and forest types at Glade Run Lake and their unique importance for wildlife. Bring your questions!

Meet at the Glade Run Lake Trailhead located at the northeast corner of the parking area.

ACCESSIBILITY OF WALK: This walk includes slopes and uneven terrain.

PETS ALLOWED: All pets on public property must comply with PA Leash laws.

CONTACT FOR MORE QUESTIONS: Jessica Pierce - jespierce@pa.gov 814-221-8241

Lick Island Loop

DAY: Sunday October 4, 2026

TIME: 9am to 1pm

WALK ADDRESS and/or GPS COORDINATES OF WHERE THE WALK WILL START: Upper Lick Island, Lick Island Trail (41.4046, -78.0993)

BRIEF DESCRIPTION (terrain level and estimated mileage):

Terrain: Moderate | Estimated mileage: 4 miles miles

Walk will traverse through a number of different forest habitats and ecosystems, focusing on tree and herbaceous plant identification. Walk will be a loop, utilizing parts of Lick Island Trail and Bucktail Path.

Lick Island Trail kiosk and parking area. Turn off Ridge Road on to Upper Lick Island Road. Follow Upper Lick Island Road for approximately one mile until you encounter fork in the road. Take the lower road to arrive at meeting location.

ACCESSIBILITY OF WALK: Walk will lose and gain several hundred feet of elevation. It is all on established hiking trails, but footpath will be narrow, rocky, and uneven at times.

CONTACT FOR MORE QUESTIONS: samujohnso@pa.gov

Gravel Point Tree Farm

DAY: Sunday October 4, 2026

TIME: 12pm to 1pm

WALK ADDRESS and/or GPS COORDINATES OF WHERE THE WALK WILL START: 748 Gravel Point Road, Howard PA 16841

BRIEF DESCRIPTION (terrain level and estimated mileage):

Terrain: Easy | Estimated mileage: .9 miles

The guided walk will advance up the road along which participants will see over 30 forestry related points of interest.
Also available will be a property map and unguided participants are welcome to explore the 210 acre tree farm and see the forestry work that has been done. Steep areas and woodland terrain. Be prepared with proper footwear and hydration. The trails are mowed, easily followed and cover most of the property.

Meet at the Tree Farm sign at the entrance to the property. Host will meet participants there. You won’t miss him!

ACCESSIBILITY OF WALK: The guided walk is up a slight grade on a dirt and gravel road. It is not a long walk and will be paced by stopping at 30+ sites to see. The walk back is slightly down grade and returns to the start. Dogs welcome on leash or under control. There are two resident dogs who do well with visiting dogs.
The unguided walk, depending on where one goes, can be steep in places, and level in other spots and along the ridge roads. Terrain can have loose rock and sticks on the road. Ticks are not a problem on the roads however be vigilant and properly protected if you venture off trail, which you are welcome to do.

PETS ALLOWED: All pets on public property must comply with PA Leash laws.

CONTACT FOR MORE QUESTIONS: Mark Ott - meocec@aol.com 814-470-0777

Guided Outing: Barrens to Bald Eagle Wildlife Corridor

DAY: Sunday October 4, 2026

TIME: 1pm to 2pm

WALK ADDRESS and/or GPS COORDINATES OF WHERE THE WALK WILL START: Barrens to Bald Eagle Wildlife Corridor 264 Harness Downs Road Port Matilda, PA 16870

BRIEF DESCRIPTION (terrain level and estimated mileage):

Terrain: Easy | Estimated mileage: 1 miles

Barrens to Bald Eagle Wildlife Corridor was conserved by ClearWater Conservancy and numerous partners in 2010 to create safe passage for wildlife species between Bald Eagle Mountain and the Scotia Barrens. ClearWater Conservancy now owns 39 of the 103 acres that make up the corridor, and that portion is open to the public and protected by a conservation easement held by Halfmoon Township. The remaining 64 acres are owned privately and enrolled in the Halfmoon Township Open Space Protection Program. Wildlife corridors are home to many species of wildlife and act as an important passageway for safe migration, especially in areas where urban sprawl can prevent animals from roaming and moving freely between habitats throughout the year. Join us to hike along the rolling grassy trails and look for the many signs of life.

Parking available on the gravel lot at the end of Harness Downs Road. Please avoid parking on residential streets.

ACCESSIBILITY OF WALK: We will explore approximately 1 mile of rolling, grassy footpaths.
Participants should wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes and bring a filled water bottle (at least 32 oz per adult). Sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, insect repellent, long sleeves, and long pants are recommended for sun and insect protection.

While the path is not stroller or wheelchair accessible; well behaved pets that comply with PA leash laws are permitted.

PETS ALLOWED: All pets on public property must comply with PA Leash laws.

CONTACT FOR MORE QUESTIONS: Dave Gantz - dave@clearwaterconservancy.org 8142370400

Friends of Cook Forest

DAY: Saturday October 3, 2026

TIME: 10am to 12pm

WALK ADDRESS and/or GPS COORDINATES OF WHERE THE WALK WILL START: Nuthole Pavilion (entrance to Ridge Camp)

BRIEF DESCRIPTION (terrain level and estimated mileage):

Terrain: Moderate | Estimated mileage: 3 miles

Join Friends of Cook Forest for a Walk in Penn's Woods hike. We'll celebrate the beauty of Pennsylvania's forests by walking a loop on the Deer Park and Mohawk Trails, discussing old growth forest characteristics and some local history. Friendly leashed pets are welcome.

Entrance to Cook Forest's Ridge Camp on route 36. There is some parking at the pavilion and some available across the road.

ACCESSIBILITY OF WALK: There will be a short off-trail section, and some rocky terrain covered on the Deer Park Trail. The entire walk will be on trails with some exposed roots.

PETS ALLOWED: All pets on public property must comply with PA Leash laws.

CONTACT FOR MORE QUESTIONS: Carl Harting - friendsofcookforest@gmail.com

A Walk in Penn's Woods - Moshannon State Forest

DAY: Sunday October 4, 2026

TIME: 10am to 11am

WALK ADDRESS and/or GPS COORDINATES OF WHERE THE WALK WILL START: 1921 Bilgers Rocks Rd Grampian, PA 16838, Coordinates: 40.99328, -78.593

BRIEF DESCRIPTION (terrain level and estimated mileage):

Terrain: Moderate | Estimated mileage: 1 miles

Join a Moshannon State Forest Forester for an immersive, 1-mile educational walk along a scenic woodland trail. Discover the rich variety of tree species native to Pennsylvania and master the fundamentals of field identification using leaves, bark, and other tree characteristics. Learn about forest ecology, history, and plant species that are native to the Pennsylvania woods. For more information please contact the Moshannon District Office at 814-765-0821.

Meet at Bilgers Rocks, Moshannon State Forest Parking Lot

ACCESSIBILITY OF WALK: Gravel Trail

CONTACT FOR MORE QUESTIONS: Andrew Dubbs - Adubbs@pa.gov 814-765-0821

Walk in Penn’s Woods at Pine Grove Furnace

DAY: Sunday October 4, 2026

TIME: 2pm to 4pm

WALK ADDRESS and/or GPS COORDINATES OF WHERE THE WALK WILL START: 20 Quarry Rd., Gardners PA 17324

BRIEF DESCRIPTION (terrain level and estimated mileage):

Terrain: Moderate | Estimated mileage: 4 miles

Join the Friends of Pine Grove Furnace on several State Park roads and trails for an annual “Walk in Penn’s Woods.” This statewide event is promoted by the PA Forestry Association to help the public appreciate woodland health, wildlife habitats, history, and sustainable land management. The hike will include sections of the Hiker-Biker-A.T., Koppenhaver Trail, Brickyard Trail and Creek Trail. Bring water and wear sturdy shoes. https://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/walk-in-penns-woods-at-pine-grove-furnace-state-park-9095

Meet at the old stone furnace stack in Pine Grove Furnace State Park, located at 20 Quarry Road just downhill from the State Park Office and the Appalachian Trail Museum, GPS: 40.03184, -77.30649

ACCESSIBILITY OF WALK: Total distance will be around 4 miles with several options to drop out early if desired. The route includes some uneven terrain and trip hazards. No baby strollers please. Leashed dogs are welcome.

PETS ALLOWED: All pets on public property must comply with PA Leash laws.

CONTACT FOR MORE QUESTIONS: Andre Weltman, chairman, Friends of PGFSP - PineGroveFriends@gmail.com 717-486-7174

Rocky Ridge Natural Area Loop Hike

DAY: Saturday October 3, 2026

TIME: 11am to 2pm

WALK ADDRESS and/or GPS COORDINATES OF WHERE THE WALK WILL START: Rothrock State Forest, Rocky Ridge Parking area. Coordinates: 40.559331, -77.852384

BRIEF DESCRIPTION (terrain level and estimated mileage):

Terrain: Moderate | Estimated mileage: 3.02 miles

This is a moderate hike with some elevation involved in the first .5 miles. It comes out onto a beautiful rock vista known as the Three Sisters. From there, we'll follow the Standing Stone Trail until it meets up with Dogwood Trail and make our way back along Dogwood Trail. (If anyone is tired they can just follow Frew Rd back to the parking area.) Participants will need sturdy shoes, bottled water, and possibly a light jacket. Pets are permitted on a leash. Wear something orange as hunting season will be in effect. Remember to have your fur child also wear somethihg orange.

We will meet in the New Rocky Ridge Parking area off Frew Rd, approximately .5 miles from the intersection of Fred Rd and Martin's Gap Rd. Parking Lot Coordinates are: 40.559331, -77.852384

ACCESSIBILITY OF WALK: This trail has rocky terrain and is also a great rock-climbing area. The trail is a natural surface with some rocky spots.

PETS ALLOWED: All pets on public property must comply with PA Leash laws.

REGISTRATION: Please check our Rothrock Facebook page for updated details and email thoallison@pa.gov to register for this walk

CONTACT FOR MORE QUESTIONS: Thomas Allison - thoallison@pa.gov 8146432340

Little Buffalo Creek Trail

DAY: Sunday October 4, 2026

TIME: 4pm to 6pm

WALK ADDRESS and/or GPS COORDINATES OF WHERE THE WALK WILL START: Pavilion 1 & 2 Parking Lot - Creek Trail Trailhead

BRIEF DESCRIPTION (terrain level and estimated mileage):

Terrain: Moderate | Estimated mileage: 1.75 miles

We will be hiking our Creek Trail, which is about 1.5 miles of nature trail along Little Buffalo Creek. This is a moderate trail with some areas of grass and mud, so wear appropriate footwear for trail hiking. Some areas of the trail can be wet year-round. This is an excellent nature-watching trail with an abundance of birds and creek wildlife to be seen. Expect to hike for between 1.5 and 2 hours on this trail. Binoculars or cameras are encouraged, as are water bottles and snacks if needed. Friendly pets are welcome as well.

Meet at the pavilion 1 and 2 parking area, located on Swimming Pool Road in the Pool Day Use Area of the park.

ACCESSIBILITY OF WALK: This is not a rocky trail, but there can be rough and wet areas of the trail. There are no major inclines, but it is not wheel-chair or stroller accessible.

CONTACT FOR MORE QUESTIONS: Mindy Wilt - mewilt@pa.gov 7175679255

Fall Hikes in Pike / Forest Management walk

DAY: Saturday October 3, 2026

TIME: 10am to 12pm

WALK ADDRESS and/or GPS COORDINATES OF WHERE THE WALK WILL START: Delaware State Forest Kleinhans Parking Lot (41.34372259749526, -75.21283009070375)

BRIEF DESCRIPTION (terrain level and estimated mileage):

Terrain: Moderate | Estimated mileage: 1.5 miles

Get ready to explore some awesome trails and soak up the fall vibes on this chill Pike hiking day! Join the District and DCNR as we explore Kleinhans Trail and get the inside scoop on forest management!
Pike County Conservation District staff will be leading a guided hike to highlight the natural resources of Pike County and explore the forested Kleinhans Trail. Leaf your worries behind and join us and our partners at the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) as we explore the ins and outs of timber sales, discover small streams along the path, and enjoy the crisp Fall air! Leashed pets are welcome to join in on the fun. Bring water, comfortable shoes, and a passion for conservation!
This is the 3rd hike in our 2026 series of 4 seasonal “Hikes in Pike.” Anyone who completes all 4 hikes will receive one FREE “Hikes in Pike” Stoni patch! Anyone wishing to receive a patch at the end of the “Hikes in Pike” series MUST check in with District staff at each of the four hikes to track their attendance in order to be eligible to receive a patch at the end of the year. Patches will be handed out at the last hike in the winter. If you are interested in learning about the other hikes in the series, be sure to sign up for our monthly newsletter!
*Participants will be notified if hike is postponed to the rain date of October 4, 2026.
Please be aware that hunting is allowed on State Forest land. Pets must remain leashed and wearing orange is advised.

Meet at the Delaware State Forest Kleinhans Trail parking lot. This parking lot is off of PA-390 just north of Promised Land State Park. The sign at the entrance reads "Delaware State Forest snowmobile trailhead parking area Kleinhans"

ACCESSIBILITY OF WALK: The trail will follow both new and old logging roads. The newer roads will have fresh stone that may make walking a little difficult. Overall, the trail is flat with a gentle slope. These trails are not wheelchair or stroller accessible. Well behaved pets that comply with PA leash law are permitted.

PETS ALLOWED: All pets on public property must comply with PA Leash laws.

REGISTRATION: Registration will be run through the Pike County Conservation District. Please register using the registration link provided. A program waiver through the conservation district is required. If you have questions about registering, please reach out to the Pike County Conservation District or DCNR Service Forester Austin NogueraRegister here

CONTACT FOR MORE QUESTIONS: Austin Noguera - anoguera@pa.gov 570-895-4000

Food Forest Build

DAY: Sunday October 4, 2026

TIME: 3pm to 5pm

WALK ADDRESS and/or GPS COORDINATES OF WHERE THE WALK WILL START: 254 Red Church Road, Auburn PA 17922

BRIEF DESCRIPTION (terrain level and estimated mileage):

Terrain: Moderate | Estimated mileage: .5 miles

Join us for a walk through the forested mountain that we are transforming into a self sustaining food forest. We are in our second year of tackling invasive plants and will be implementing our first planting of native fruit trees and bushes later this fall. Chickens and goats will be hanging out.

Location is the old stone farmhouse at 254 Red Church Road. Park in the grass along the road or driveway. Over flow may be available by neighbors barn. Myself or a friend will helping to direct parking.

ACCESSIBILITY OF WALK: Moderate descents and ascents. Uneven ground (atv trail), trip hazards. Kids that are of capable age are welcome.

REGISTRATION: If you are interested and believe you will be joining, please email or text attendee headcount and car count to the provided contact info.

CONTACT FOR MORE QUESTIONS: George Maroukis - theredhollow1856@gmail.com 5706918865

Bog Path Trail Habitat Walk and Talk

DAY: Saturday September 12, 2026

TIME: 12pm to 2pm

WALK ADDRESS and/or GPS COORDINATES OF WHERE THE WALK WILL START: Bog Path Trailhead 40.214840, -78.727436

BRIEF DESCRIPTION (terrain level and estimated mileage):

Terrain: Moderate | Estimated mileage: 2.2 miles

Join three natural resource professionals and complete the Bog Path Trail loop. While walking, there will be discussion about the lifeforms that call the bog area home. The walk with discussions along the way may take 2 hours.

There are two gravel parking lots near the trailhead on the west side of Shade Road just south of the Shade Road, Route 56 intersection.

ACCESSIBILITY OF WALK: This walk has a mild amount of elevation change. There will likely be wet/muddy areas along the trail with wooden walkways over the worst parts. Not accessible to wheelchairs or strollers.

REGISTRATION: Please register with an email or call to Jeff Osborne by September 10th.

CONTACT FOR MORE QUESTIONS: Jeff Osborne - jeffosborn@pa.gov (814)540-6162

Kimberly Run Natural Area forest and grassland walk

DAY: Sunday October 4, 2026

TIME: 1pm to 4pm

WALK ADDRESS and/or GPS COORDINATES OF WHERE THE WALK WILL START: Kimberly Run Natural Area Trail Head on East Menser Road (39.98038, -79.02259)

BRIEF DESCRIPTION (terrain level and estimated mileage):

Terrain: Moderate | Estimated mileage: 1 - 3.5 miles miles

Join us for a walk exploring Kimberly Run's grasslands/meadows and forests! Kimberly Run is owned and managed by Somerset County Conservancy and has multiple trails going around grassland fields, through forests, and near wetlands and streams.
First we plan to do about a 1 mile loop (Overlook Loop) around a 30 acre grassland/meadow restoration project. This meadow was seeded with native grasses and wildflowers in December 2025. This summer we have seen several wildflowers blooming such as coreopsis, vervain, blackeyed susan, and partridge pea. This field is a reclaimed strip mine that was heavily encroached with autumn olive and black locust. We will discuss the work that has been done here to convert it into a native grass and wildflower plantng.
Next we will do about a 2 mile loop (White Loop) in a forested area. Along this loop we will cross two bridges that go over a stream and will go near a wetland area. Somerset County Conservancy is planning on doing forest management work with the USDA NRCS and we will discuss some of the planned work to improve the forest health.
There are many other shorter or longer loops that we can recommend if attendees want a shorter or longer walk.

We will meet at the Kimberly Run Natural Area Trail Head on East Menser Road. This is a gravel parking lot. A porta potty is at this parking lot and there are no other porta potties along the hiking path/trails.

ACCESSIBILITY OF WALK: East Menser road is a paved road and the parking lot at the meeting location is gravel. All trails are mowed grass paths. Trails are not stroller or wheelchair accessible. Most of the hike is flat, but there will be short uphill sections, two bridge crossings, and maybe some wet grass patches depening on amount of recent rain.
We recommend that people wear tick preventive clothing (long pants tucked into long socks, good walking/hiking shoes, long sleeves, bug spray), sun protection (sunscreen and or hat), and bring plenty of water and maybe light snacks if desired.

PETS ALLOWED: All pets on public property must comply with PA Leash laws.

CONTACT FOR MORE QUESTIONS: Emma Keele - gsncc@iup.edu 402-469-1063

A Walk in Penns Woods at the Mokoma Conservancy

DAY: Sunday October 4, 2026

TIME: 11am to 2pm

WALK ADDRESS and/or GPS COORDINATES OF WHERE THE WALK WILL START: 6 Gate Road, LaPorte, Pa 18626

BRIEF DESCRIPTION (terrain level and estimated mileage):

Terrain: Moderate | Estimated mileage: 3 miles

During the hike, participants will hear from Mokoma Conservancy staff, updating them about what programs Mokoma offers.

This event will start at 11 a.m. at Mokoma Conservancy in Sullivan County, just outside of
LaPorte. The mileage for this hike will be approximately 3 miles. Please meet at 6 Gate
Road, LaPorte, Pa 18626 on or before 11 a.m.

ACCESSIBILITY OF WALK: The terrain for this event will be somewhat rocky, with about 322 feet of elevation gain. Hikers should wear appropriate clothing and footwear (hiking shoes or boots) and have a sufficient supply of water with them. This hike will be during archery hunting season, and we ask that you please bring an orange vest or shirt with you.

CONTACT FOR MORE QUESTIONS: Rachel Flad - rflad@emheritage.org 570-439-6214

The Mystery of the Woodchuck Farm

DAY: Saturday October 3, 2026

TIME: 10am to 12pm

WALK ADDRESS and/or GPS COORDINATES OF WHERE THE WALK WILL START: Hatch Run Conservation Demonstration Area (approx. 1.25 miles from the intersection of SR62 and Hatch Run Rd. )

BRIEF DESCRIPTION (terrain level and estimated mileage):

Terrain: Moderate | Estimated mileage: approximately 1 mile with options for a longer walk on your own miles

Join the Warren County Conservation District staff and Taylor Chamberlin, Service Forester for DCNR to take a walk through history and help uncover the mystery at Hatch Run Conservation Demonstration Area. Come join this guided hike that navigates through the history of the fabled Woodchuck Farm (formerly owned and operated by Warren State Hospital) and the many remnant artifacts that played a role in shaping the landscape into what it is today.

Hatch Run Conservation Demonstration Area (parking lot) (approx. 1.25 miles from the intersection of SR62 and Hatch Run Rd. )

ACCESSIBILITY OF WALK: This walk has limited wheelchair or stroller access. People-friendly leashed pets are allowed; owner must clean up after their pets. Maintained hiking trail.

PETS ALLOWED: All pets on public property must comply with PA Leash laws.

CONTACT FOR MORE QUESTIONS: Sherry Moore - smoore@wcconservation.net 814-726-1441