The Fred Woods Trail is one of the most scenic and popular trails in the PA Wilds. It is also unique in being a scenic trail that is also fairly easy, making it ideal for younger hikers. The trail features views and impressive rock outcrops and chasms. The hardest part of the hike might be the drive. Mason Hill Road from Driftwood is a bit rugged and a vehicle with some clearance is recommended. Usually, Mason Hill Road is in good condition once on top of the plateau. On our visit, it was under construction and still a bit rugged. It is also possible to drive from the west, but I do not know the road conditions from that direction.
The Fred Woods Trail is about 4.5 miles long and is named after a forestry worker who died in an accident while performing his duties.
From the parking area, follow the yellow blazed trail into hemlocks and across small streams. The trail follows an old forest road. You will then reach the start of the loop. I like to go left, or clockwise. The trail meanders through the woods, which are open with hardwoods and some ferns. The trail makes it way to the edge of the plateau offering great views when there are no leaves on the trees. The terrain below is very steep. The Bennett Branch of the Sinnemahoning Creek is over a thousand feet below.
Reach the first vista, Huckleberry Vista, from a meadow of lowbush blueberries. This looks up the drainage of the Bennett Branch and is a great view, particularly for sunsets. The Fred Wood Trail continues on the plateau, passing some boulders. The terrain is rolling.
Reach an intersection with the Rock Trail and turn left to the beautiful Water Plug Vista with views of the deep gorge below. The trail climbs gradually and begins to enter the rocks. Enjoy the massive sandstone blocks covered with moss, ferns and lichens. Some support entire forests on top. It is a truly beautiful place. Follow the trail into the highlight, a stunning chasm a few hundred feet long and over thirty feet deep. The Rock Trail makes its way towards Water Plug Vista, but I prefer to enjoy exploring the maze of rocks and return on the main loop of the Fred Woods Trail. The hike again features open hardwoods and fern glades. Complete the loop and retrace your steps back to the parking area.
For the map above, black dots are the massive rocks and boulders.
While in the area, a visit to the Bucktail Overlook is a must see. The vast views are stunning from a huge mountaintop meadow. Look over the huge plateaus and deep canyons.
Parking for the Fred Woods Trail is at about 41.362360, -78.183133. Bucktail Overlook is at 41.349790, -78.153461.
Photos:
Hike Pennsylvania with Jeff Mitchell 