Length: 3 miles, one way
Blazes: None, but the trail is well established and easy to follow
Parking: Pull off parking is at 41.318569, -77.413760
Highlights: Waterfall, cascades, hemlock forests, streamside hiking
Issues: Several stream crossings
Level of challenge: Easy
Description: The Pine Creek Gorge is a hiking wonderland with a vast array of trails. It is also a trail running destination. The hike along Ott Fork is beautiful as it follows a creek with its cascades and hemlock forests. This trail is also along the Eastern States 100, one of the premier trail races in the country.
From the parking area, just follow the old grade as it enters the gorge of Ott Fork. You will soon see some waterfalls and cascades, no more than ten feet tall, but still very scenic. These are the tallest falls on the trail. Continue upstream with some stream crossings and an old bridge abutment. Cascades dot Ott Fork. Mountain laurel and some rhododendron adorn the forest.
As you hike, hemlocks become more common with moss. Some of the trees are somewhat large. Ott Fork babbles off to the right. Pass a juncture with the Pine Hollow Trail. Continue along Ott Fork until the trail ends at a dirt road. Retrace your steps.
This is an easy and enjoyable hike that feels isolated. Ott Fork is a gem worth visiting. While in the area, visit Mountain Top Provisions for a meal.
Hike Pennsylvania with Jeff Mitchell 