An overcrowding alert has been issued for several state parks and state forests by the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources.
“A number of state parks and forest recreation areas are seeing significant crowding during the weekends and when the weather is warm,” noted the notice posted on DCNR’s website.
“The extraordinary number of people is causing these places to turn away visitors. Overflow parking also may be closed to help ensure proper social distancing.
“Visitors planning to go to these areas are encouraged to find other less crowded locations for recreation.”
In search of relief from restrictions resulting from the coronavirus pandemic people have been drawn Pennsylvania state parks and state forests in unprecedented numbers.
State parks reaching capacity, experiencing unsafe overcrowding and/or turning away visitors include Beltzville, Codorus, Keystone. Marsh Creek, Ohiopyle, Presque Isle, Ricketts Glen, Tyler and Washington Crossing
The following state forest areas are reaching capacity and turning away visitors.
Seven Tubs Recreation Area in Pinchot State Forest. Visitors should consider the following alternatives:
- Pinchot Trail – From the primary Pinchot Trailhead along Bear Lake Road, a 4-mile loop or 1-mile out-out-and-back hike can be made to the Pine Hill Observation Deck overlooking the Pocono Plateau.
- Black Diamond Trail – The long-distance rail trail can be accessed on Route 437 and provides an opportunity for a leisurely walk or scenic bike ride. Visitors will pass several wetlands and scrub oak habitats.
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Rock Run in Loyalsock State Forest. Visitors should consider the following alternatives:
- Cherry Ridge Trail – Located a few miles from the Rock Run Valley, the 5.7-mile blue-blazed trail provides an easy walk over rolling terrain. Visitors will see typical northern hardwood forests and cross several small streams. The trail can also connect to the Old Loggers Path and other unmarked trails for the adventurous hiker to explore. The trailhead is located at the intersection of Krimm Road and Ellenton Ridge Road.
- Hawkeye Ski Trail – The 7.2-mile shared-use trail covers a variety of terrain and even brings forest visitors into the headwaters of Rock Run. A short jaunt from the intersection with Sharp Shinned Trail will allow hikers an opportunity to wade in its ever-cool waters. The trailhead is along the paved Ellenton Mountain Road near the “Devil’s Elbow.”
- Old Loggers Path – A multitude of short hikes and loops can be made throughout the 27-mile Old Loggers Path circuit. A small parking area along Yellow Dog Road provides access to a quick out-and-back hike to a vista overlooking the Rock Run Valley. A longer loop can be made using the historic Ellenton Grade.
Those looking for other alternatives should visit the Pennsylvania state park or the Pennsylvania state forest websites.
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Contact Marcus Schneck at mschneck@pennlive.com.