Allegheny National Forest
Following the logging boom of 1890-1930, few tracts of old-growth forest remained in northern Pennsylvania. Today, with Forest Service management, the half-million acre Allegheny is the commonwealth's only national forest.
Hundreds of campsites, dispersed wilderness camping, over 60 miles of hiking trails, 10 miles of mountain bike trails, 38 miles of snowmobile trails, 28 miles of cross-country ski trails, and nearly 75 miles of ATV trails provide a diverse selection of outdoor recreation located within the five counties of Northwest Pennsylvania's Great Outdoors region.
Two nationally wild and scenic rivers, the Clarion and Allegheny, contribute more than 125 miles of pristine waterways to explore by canoe or kayak.
The Allegheny River Islands Wilderness, stretching from West Hickory to Tionesta, provides additional opportunities for canoe-only camping access. Other camping facilities are available north of Kellettville at Minister Creek.
More information and numerous publications are available. Camping reservations 1-877-444-6777.
Ranger station, 222 Liberty St., Warren. (814) 723-5150
Bike/Mountain Bike Trails
Mountain biking has increased in popularity so much throughout the Allegheny National Forest that it's not uncommon to see bikers during all seasons. Most trails including snowmobile trails, general open roads and gated roads are available for use by mountain bikers. A.T.V. trails are best suited for expert or extreme riding; many will find them too rough for riding. The ANF has over 600 miles of trail where bikes are allowed, but in actuality, many segments of ANF trails, even though open for bike use, do not provide a high quality experience for bikers. The snowmobile routes provide a scenic ride, but for the more adventurous, purchase the administrative map at any Ranger District office, and plan your own trail experience.
Biking is allowed in most places in the ANF where a Forest Service travelway exists - for example, trails, gated roads, and open roads. Respect the rights of private landowners of travelways, and obtain permission prior to using these private roads.
ATV Trails
Two areas of the Allegheny National Forest provide more than 100 miles of trails for ATV usage. Marienville and Timberline ATV Trails are open from the Friday before Memorial Day to September 24 and December 20 through April 1. It is recommended to call ahead as wet weather may necessitate closing.
The Allegheny National Forest has more than 100 miles of ATV trails. Contact the ANF Supervisor's Office at (814) 723-5150 for trail information. Effective July 1, 2002, the Allegheny National Forest implemented the Fee Demo Program for ATV and motorized bike trails. An annual $35 permit fee is required, and can be purchased from any Allegheny National Forest office, and some local vendors, or online at www.fs.fed.us/r9/allegheny
Snowmobiling
Hundreds of miles of snowmobile trails are open in the 513,000 acre Allegheny National Forest. Trails are open mid-December through April 1, conditions permitting. Contact the ANF Supervisor's Office at (814) 723-5150 for a recorded message of snow conditions. Current snow/trail conditions can also be found on line at www.fs.fed.us/r9/forests/allegheny/recreation/snowmobile_trails/ Additional trail information is available online at www.fs.fed.us/r9/allegheny
The PA DCNR has available a snowmobile hotline (877-766-6253) with information on snow conditions and grooming that is updated every Tuesday and Friday.
Pennsylvania requires that persons be at least 16 years of age and carry proof of insurance to operate on any joint use road (many ANF trails are joint use roads). Pennsylvania also requires snowmobilers to wear a helmet. For more information, please
Trail Host Program:
There are several trail host locations along the Allegheny Snowmobile Loop. These host houses offer trails information, maps, directions and safety assistance. Trail Hosts are identified by orange vests and pennants. Volunteers maintain these sites, located at the following grid locations on the Allegheny Recreation Map E-6 near FR 160 and SR 59; and B-8 at Hickory Creek Wilderness Ranch. These host locations are marked by a red H on the map. The recreation map also shows the location of recreation areas (including longitude and latitude), hiking trails, ATV trails, cross-country ski trails, and the snowmobile trail system.
Pennsylvania Great Outdoors Visitors Bureau has available the Allegheny National Forest Outdoor Discovery Map which details outdoor recreational opportunities and designates trails and information. Please call 1-800-348-9393 to request a copy.
