Nestled in the heart of northwestern Pennsylvania lies a hidden gem for outdoor enthusiasts —the Clarion-Little Toby Creek Trail. Stretching over 18 miles, this scenic pathway offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
The trail is well-maintained, with benches and markers guiding the way. Along the journey, I encountered a variety of life from wildflowers to woodland creatures including a snake along the path during the return trip. It’s a paradise for nature lovers and photographers with endless opportunities to capture the essence of Pennsylvania’s wilderness.
The trail is perfect for cyclists of all skill levels as the majority of the path is level and fairly hard packed. The swinging bridge is not part of the trail so you won’t have to bike across it. The bridge is located near a railroad track and hosts several picnic areas which makes a great place to hang out before starting your trip back. Even when the trains went past the lay of the terrain helped to block the sound from overwhelming the peaceful area.
When we went to the bridge, we walked the trail. While I was walking around under the bridge for pictures I slipped in a sneaky mud puddle and took a fall that bruised my ankle and my ego. Definitely wear close toed shoes and bring bug spray. Obviously don’t forget to pack water and watch out for ticks. We were the only ones at the bridge for almost 20 minutes and we were able to take a lot of pictures and explore undisturbed. Most of this trail is on Game Commission land which comes with some rules, so make sure you look into those before using the trail. This is a location I would put on a list for picnicking and fall leaf peeping.
Whether you’re seeking adventure or simply looking to escape the stresses of everyday life, this hidden gem in Pennsylvania’s wilderness is sure to leave a lasting impression. So pack your bags, lace up your hiking boots, and embark on a journey of discovery along the Clarion-Little Toby Creek Trail. You never know what wonders await just around the bend.
