Black Forest Trail - Slate Run, PA
Black Forest Trail – Dog-Friendly Adventure in Slate Run, Pennsylvania
Discover the scenic beauty and adventure of the Black Forest Trail near Slate Run, Pennsylvania, one of the state’s most celebrated pet-friendly hiking destinations. Known for its lush mountain streams, enchanting forests, breathtaking rock formations, and panoramic vistas of the rolling green mountains, this trail is a hiker and dog owner’s paradise. The Black Forest Trail features a network of trails, making it perfect for energetic dogs and their owners seeking an immersive, challenging experience in the great outdoors.
What sets this destination apart for pet lovers is its abundance of natural water sources, varying elevation changes, and tranquil forest surroundings ideal for adventurous dogs. Ample parking, picnic areas, and miles of well-marked, well-maintained trails provide plenty of opportunities for exploration and relaxation with your four-legged companions. While there are no fenced areas or dedicated off-leash zones, many visitors appreciate the dog-friendly atmosphere, picturesque picnic spots, and easy access to the famous Pine Creek Rail Trail. This is truly an exceptional option for those seeking dog-friendly hiking in Pennsylvania’s wilderness.
Frequently Asked Questions – Black Forest Trail
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, Black Forest Trail offers a vast network of hiking trails perfect for dogs and their owners.
- Is there parking available? Yes, convenient parking is available at several trailheads, making access easy for visitors.
- Are there restrooms available for owners? There are rustic restrooms and pit toilets near some picnic and parking areas.
- Is there shade or shelter available? Yes, the trail and camping areas feature mature trees providing plenty of shade; there are also picnic sites and some pavilions in nearby areas.
- Are there trash bins available? Yes, there are plenty of trash bins distributed throughout the park.
- Is the park open year-round? Yes, the Black Forest Trail is accessible year-round, though conditions may vary with the season.
- Are there water sources available for refilling? Yes, the trail includes several streams and springs for refilling water; however, visitors should bring their own water or filtration, as potable water is not always provided.
- Are there picnics or BBQs allowed? Yes, there are picnic areas with tables, though there may not be facilities for hot coals or grills.
- Are ticks or other pests common in the area? Yes, as with most forested areas in Pennsylvania, ticks and other pests can be present, so proper precautions should be taken.
Reviews
This trail is absolutely beautiful!! It was worth the challenge. The free and frequent campsites along the trail are beautiful. This backpacking loop included mountain streams covered with mossy rocks and fallen logs, waterfalls, rock formations, thick ferns, bright mushrooms, and vistas with breathtaking views of the rolling green mountains. We had some great wildlife sightings, including humming birds, rattle snakes, and black bear. A well marked and well maintained Trail. Defiantly Recommending this one, and hoping to do it again, it was so much fun.
This trail is absolutely beautiful!! It was worth the challenge. The free and frequent campsites along the trail are beautiful. This backpacking loop included mountain streams covered with mossy rocks and fallen logs, waterfalls, rock formations, thick ferns, bright mushrooms, and vistas with breathtaking views of the rolling green mountains. We had some great wildlife sightings, including humming birds, rattle snakes, and black bear. A well marked and well maintained Trail. Defiantly Recommending this one, and hoping to do it again, it was so much fun.
Great hike. Lots of ups and downs. The vistas were worth the elevations. Had to pay attention for the rattlers. Plenty of water.
Great hike. Lots of ups and downs. The vistas were worth the elevations. Had to pay attention for the rattlers. Plenty of water.
This is an amazing trail for backpacking. Parking is very convenient for multiple days out on trail. The trail is well marked, good and reliable water and lots of camping options. I used the GAIA app to map my trips. Cal topo works well, too. If you are going to hike the full loop, 3 nights, 4 days, was very enjoyable. I hiked CCW. I’m looking forward to hiking it again. I met good people on trail, saw lots of wildlife, and had fun navigating all the water crossings on the last day. This place is a true gem.
This is an amazing trail for backpacking. Parking is very convenient for multiple days out on trail. The trail is well marked, good and reliable water and lots of camping options. I used the GAIA app to map my trips. Cal topo works well, too. If you are going to hike the full loop, 3 nights, 4 days, was very enjoyable. I hiked CCW. I’m looking forward to hiking it again. I met good people on trail, saw lots of wildlife, and had fun navigating all the water crossings on the last day. This place is a true gem.
This is a great backpacking trail with demanding inclines and descents but plenty of beauty to keep you motivated. We only did 20 miles but will be back later this year to do the entire loop. We did see a small rattlesnake and 10 or so grouse. Definitely recommend if you are in good shape physically. —Update—: Did the entire loop October 14-16 in 3 days. Could have done it in 2 but we got started late on Friday so we did 7 miles on the first day, 14 on the second, and 23 on the third. Definitely a physically challenging loop. Pack light and be ready for lots of steep, long climbs. But they never fail to reward you.
This is a great backpacking trail with demanding inclines and descents but plenty of beauty to keep you motivated. We only did 20 miles but will be back later this year to do the entire loop. We did see a small rattlesnake and 10 or so grouse. Definitely recommend if you are in good shape physically. —Update—: Did the entire loop October 14-16 in 3 days. Could have done it in 2 but we got started late on Friday so we did 7 miles on the first day, 14 on the second, and 23 on the third. Definitely a physically challenging loop. Pack light and be ready for lots of steep, long climbs. But they never fail to reward you.
Beautiful trail with tons of vistas, streams and springs for refilling water and enchanting forest areas. Lots of elevation changes, including some very steep ascents. Did the 28(?) mile loop and would NOT recommend to beginners. We may have scared our friends off of backpacking again in the future because of the difficulty of this trail. 🤣
Beautiful trail with tons of vistas, streams and springs for refilling water and enchanting forest areas. Lots of elevation changes, including some very steep ascents. Did the 28(?) mile loop and would NOT recommend to beginners. We may have scared our friends off of backpacking again in the future because of the difficulty of this trail. 🤣