Hiking Collection by Alex
The Susquehannock Trail System — Pennsylvania's most remote loop
7 days
4-8 h/day
132km
3,570m
3,550m
Most hikers begin at the Cross Fork and take 4 to 10 days to complete this loop. You can leave your car at the Susquehannock State Forest headquarters at the Susquehannock Forestry Maintenance Building for a south-end start. I recommend hiking the loop in a clockwise direction, but you can complete it in either direction. While on the trail, you'll gain over 14,000 feet of elevation, with the steepest challenge coming at mile 36, where you'll drop 600 feet in just 0.3 miles through Morgan Hollow; trekking poles are essential here. The terrain is generally smooth and well-marked, but summer hikers will encounter plant overgrowth, ticks, and other biting insects. I recommend long pants and clothes treated with permethrin. Rattlesnakes are not uncommon along the trail as well, so watch your footing!
Fortunately, water sources and stream crossings are plentiful, but bring extra socks for potential wet feet after crossing a stream or an unexpected downpour. For water purification, a filter is the most effective solution. Resupplying is tricky, as there are no towns directly on the trail. Therefore, plan on carrying all your food, or consider hitchhiking into Coudersport halfway through the loop. When carrying your food, be sure to store it properly, as you’re in bear country. Use a bear hang, bear can, or Ursack.
No permits are required to take on this hike, and dispersed camping is allowed throughout the Susquehannock State Forest, as long as you avoid state park boundaries and private land. There are also a handful of shelters scattered along the trail that offer a dry spot in a storm. Spring and fall are ideal times to hike, when the weather is at its best and the trails are less crowded. Winter hikes are possible, but not recommended unless you're experienced with snow navigation and cold-weather backcountry travel.
The Susquehannock Trail System is one of Pennsylvania's most remote and scenic long-distance trails. If you're looking to disappear into solitude for a week, look no further.
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The Susquehannock Trail System loop — Potter County
131km
3,560m
3,560m
Last updated: June 30, 2025
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Activities
1. Stage 1: Cross Fork to Gravel Lick Shelter — Susquehannock Trail System
18.1km
05:19
580m
280m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
7. Stage 7: Spook Hollow Shelter to Cross Fork — Susquehannock Trail System
29.0km
08:30
680m
940m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Collection Stats
Activities
7
Distance
132 km
Duration
38:47 h
Elevation
3,570 m
3,550 m
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