Donut Hole Trail: 90 miles along the West Branch Susquehanna River
- by Guest Contributor
- November 2, 2023
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Republished from The Susquehanna Greenway Partnership
Donut Hole Trail is a 90-mile route that parallels the Susquehanna River and passes through Sproul State Forest, amidst some of the thickest wooded areas in Pennsylvania. It provides an amazing backpacking trip for an overnight experience within PA’s premier wilderness, and also can be divided into some great options for day-hikers.
From point-to-point, the Donut Hole Trail runs between Jericho and Farrandsville, PA, mostly running within Clinton County, except for 5-miles in Jericho, where the trail enters Cameron County.
Photos by Jeff Mitchell
While the entire 90 miles is a fantastic journey for the motivated backpacker, avid hikers can also explore sections of the trail in a series of day-hikes. One popular section begins at Hyner Run State Park, with the hike leading up to the breathtaking Hyner View Overlook. The expansive greenery, running streams, and the views of the Susquehanna River’s West Branch offer a small glimpse into what you will experience on this section of the Donut Hole Trail.
Image: Blazes and signs mark the Donut Hole Trail, occasionally pointing out overlooks such as the one from Hyner View. Photos by Jeff Mitchell.
For the hikers up to an exciting challenge, there are a few portions of the trail that include steep climbs and stream crossings sure to get the blood pumping. One major stream crossing is located at Kettle Creek. Please exercise caution on this part of the trail. When the water is high, do not attempt to cross. Instead take the scenic route, marked by yellow blazes—this path will not take you through Kettle Creek.
As mentioned previously, the Donut Hole Trail runs through Sproul State Park, the largest state forest in Pennsylvania. The Donut Hole Trail connects with the state park at the Susquehannock Trail System. This trail crosses Kettle Creek State Park and ends at Hyner Run State Park. Access to different parts of the trail is available through these state parks, or from either trail end.
For backpackers, camping permits are required if you plan to stay more than one night at a specific spot. A map of the trail and camping permits may be acquired from the Sproul State Forest office in Renovo, (570) 923-6011.
PARKING AND TRAIL ACCESS
To start from Jericho: The starting point from Jericho is near the intersection of PA 120 and PA 872 in Cameron County. Take Jericho’s only street to the end of the road, off PA 120.
To start from Farrandsville: The starting point from Farrandsville is about 7 miles outside of Lock Haven. To get to the trail head from leaving Lock Haven, go over the 664 bridge above the Susquehanna River, and turn left at the end of the bridge. Drive 5 miles along the Susquehanna River to Farrandsville. Continue for an additional .6 mile, where the road will turn abruptly away from the river, where you will pass by a church. The trail head is located at the end of the road in the Game Commission parking lot.
About The Susquehanna Greenway Partnership:
The Susquehanna Greenway is a corridor of connected trails, parks, river access points, and communities, linking people to the natural and cultural treasures of the Susquehanna River within Pennsylvania. The mission of the Susquehanna Greenway Partnership is to continue to grow the Greenway by building connections along the Susquehanna River, inspiring people to engage with the outdoors, and transforming communities into places where people want to live, work, and explore. Visit susquehannagreenway.org to learn more.
