The Shin Hollow Trail at Tioga State Forest in Gaines, Pennsylvania is an easy 3.2-mile out-and-back trail that runs along the top of a ridge high above Pine Creek.
This easy-to-moderate trail begins with a gradual uphill climb that runs for about a half-mile before the trail levels out at the top of the mountain. This ascent is not difficult, hence the "easy" difficulty level for this hike, but some inexperienced hikers may find it more moderate.
Once the trail levels out at the top of the ridge, it'll also open up fairly quickly as hikers make their way through the deforested section of the trail. This deforestation provides some views of the neighboring mountains.
Eventually, the trail will have one last final ascent (no more than 30-feet) to where the trail ends at a point along the mountain ridge. At this part of the trail, there's nothing to see despite more hopes of there being a better lookout point at the end of the trail. The hike back to parking is just as easy since it's mostly all downhill, despite the flat mountain ridge portion of the hike.
Lookout / Vista
This trail has some views from the top, especially during Autumn and the colder months. These views are thanks to the deforestation at the top of the ridge, but the views are not very expansive - you can generally just see mountain ridges neighboring this one.
Hunting
This trail is open to hunters starting in mid-October most years. Wear blaze-orange to protect yourself. Also note that this is a driveable trail, so hunters may drive up and down this trail looking for deer.
Camping
Backpackers can technically camp off of this trail, but there are not designated campsites. Please see the rules and regulations of the state forest before camping.
Parking
Hikers can find parking directly across the street from the trail. The lot is large enough to fit about 5 large vehicles.
Pets
Dogs are allowed if leashed and their waste must be carried out by the hiker.
This easy-to-moderate trail begins with a gradual uphill climb that runs for about a half-mile before the trail levels out at the top of the mountain. This ascent is not difficult, hence the "easy" difficulty level for this hike, but some inexperienced hikers may find it more moderate.
Once the trail levels out at the top of the ridge, it'll also open up fairly quickly as hikers make their way through the deforested section of the trail. This deforestation provides some views of the neighboring mountains.
Eventually, the trail will have one last final ascent (no more than 30-feet) to where the trail ends at a point along the mountain ridge. At this part of the trail, there's nothing to see despite more hopes of there being a better lookout point at the end of the trail. The hike back to parking is just as easy since it's mostly all downhill, despite the flat mountain ridge portion of the hike.
Lookout / Vista
This trail has some views from the top, especially during Autumn and the colder months. These views are thanks to the deforestation at the top of the ridge, but the views are not very expansive - you can generally just see mountain ridges neighboring this one.
Hunting
This trail is open to hunters starting in mid-October most years. Wear blaze-orange to protect yourself. Also note that this is a driveable trail, so hunters may drive up and down this trail looking for deer.
Camping
Backpackers can technically camp off of this trail, but there are not designated campsites. Please see the rules and regulations of the state forest before camping.
Parking
Hikers can find parking directly across the street from the trail. The lot is large enough to fit about 5 large vehicles.
Pets
Dogs are allowed if leashed and their waste must be carried out by the hiker.
PA Wilds Trails
