The Rough Hill Trail at Loyalsock State Forest near Barbours, Pennsylvania is a moderate-to-difficult 2.1-mile loop (lollipop) hike that features views of the Loyalsock Creek valley and the surrounding mountains, including Smiths Knob.
Hike Description
Rough Hill Trail is one of my favorite short hikes starting at the Sandy Bottom parking lot off route 87. The trail is a lollipop loop starting on the service road and cutting over and across 87 and then ascends up the mountain. There are two great lookouts on this trail, a lower and upper vista, the upper vista has great views looking down the valley towards Smiths Knob.
Parking
Hikers will find a small parking lot along the short road that leads into the Sandy Bottom Recreation Area. From the parking lot, hikers will find the trail.
Pets
Dogs are allowed if leashed and should be cleaned up after.
Camping & Backpacking
While there are no designated or pre-defined campsites along this trail, backcountry / primitive / dispersed camping is allowed within Loyalsock State Forest. Please follow all state forest rules and regulations if planning to camp.
Difficulty
This hike should be considered Moderate to Hard, hence the Hard difficulty for the average hiker. More experienced hikers may find this hike's difficulty to be Moderate at worst.
Warning
Timber Rattlesnake: This area is home to the Timer Rattlesnake which can often be found roaming the forest floors between late April and early October each year. Keep an eye out and if found, please give them plenty of space.
Hike Description
Rough Hill Trail is one of my favorite short hikes starting at the Sandy Bottom parking lot off route 87. The trail is a lollipop loop starting on the service road and cutting over and across 87 and then ascends up the mountain. There are two great lookouts on this trail, a lower and upper vista, the upper vista has great views looking down the valley towards Smiths Knob.
Parking
Hikers will find a small parking lot along the short road that leads into the Sandy Bottom Recreation Area. From the parking lot, hikers will find the trail.
Pets
Dogs are allowed if leashed and should be cleaned up after.
Camping & Backpacking
While there are no designated or pre-defined campsites along this trail, backcountry / primitive / dispersed camping is allowed within Loyalsock State Forest. Please follow all state forest rules and regulations if planning to camp.
Difficulty
This hike should be considered Moderate to Hard, hence the Hard difficulty for the average hiker. More experienced hikers may find this hike's difficulty to be Moderate at worst.
Warning
Timber Rattlesnake: This area is home to the Timer Rattlesnake which can often be found roaming the forest floors between late April and early October each year. Keep an eye out and if found, please give them plenty of space.
PA Wilds Trails
