Popular with hikers and bicycle riders, the Pine Creek Rail Trail is a 62 mile converted railroad bed that travels along Pine Creek Gorge at the floor of the canyon. An article in USA Today named the Pine Creek Rail Trail one of "10 great places to take a bike tour" in the world. Local outfitters are available for equipment rentals and excursion information. Pine Creek, the largest tributary of the West Branch of the Susquehanna River, itself is famous for fly fishing.
The rail trail runs from Jersey Shore to Stokesdale which is a length of approximately 62 miles. The hard packed stone makes for a fairly easy ride or hike, and the trail has a small grade, around 2%. The Pine Creek Rail Trail is a fun family day hike or bike ride, and good exercise for all ages.
Camp
Trail Camping
Go on a Pine Creek Rail Trail camping adventure! Scroll down for maps. All camping along Pine Creek requires a camping permit. Tiadaghton State Forest: Primitive camping near the rail trail is permitted at Black Walnut Bottom Camping Area (2 miles south of Slate Run). Black Walnut Bottom offers picnic tables, fire rings and restrooms. Canoeists with permits may also camp at a limited number of sites at Naval Run, Callahan Run and at Bonnell Flat Camping Area. Tioga State Forest: Primitive camping near the rail trail is permitted along Pine Creek at designated locations. Tiadaghton and Hoffman campgrounds offer picnic tables, fire rings, potable water and restrooms. (Photo by: Jeff Krause)
Pine Creek Valley
Fishing and Boating
Great fishing for both cold water and warm water species is available in the Pine Creek Valley. Pine Creek and its tributaries support a great variety of fish eventually flowing into the West Branch of the Susquehanna River. Mountain streams, too numerous to mention, offer challenging native brook trout fishing. Contact the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission for details and licensing information. Canoeing Pine Creek is a spring tradition for many, and a once in a lifetime thrill for others. Whether you’re interested in a three-day excursion or a two-hour easy paddle, any time spent on Pine Creek will be unforgettable. The water is best for canoeing in March, April, and May, but heavy rains may permit passage at other times of the year. Most of the creek is considered Class 1, and is easily navigated by experienced paddlers, however, there are more challenging Class 2 and 3 rapids in some areas. Several local outfitters work the area and provide rentals and guiding options. (Pine Creek photo: Jeff Krause)
Bike or Hike
Enjoy the Scenic Landscape
Near Slate Rate, the a railroad bridge has been converted for pedestrian traffic on the Pine Creek Rail Trail.
Camping Along Pine Creek
All camping along Pine Creek requires a camping permit! All camping must take place at least 100 feet from waterways. Camping on the right-of-way or in trail parking areas is not permitted. Groups of 10 or more people must obtain a Letter of Authorization from the district forester in addition to a camping permit. Permits are available at district offices, and can be issued in person, via US mail, or by fax:
