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Hiking in Buchanan State Forest

Buchanan State Forest boasts an extensive 157 mile shared-use trail system. The state forest also contains networks of local trails through many types of forest and ranging from easily hiked paths to steep and rocky trails originally built as fire breaks.

State Forest Hiking Trails

There are State Forest Hiking Trails within Buchanan State Forest designated for foot travel only:

  • Mid State Trail
  • Tuscarora Trail

Mid State Trail

The Mid State Trail enters the Martin Hill Wild Area west of Hewitt, Bedford County. The trail initially follows the summit of Tussey Mountain passing through the former site of the Martin Hill fire tower at 2,752 feet. It descends into the Sweet Root Natural Area, crosses PA Route 326, and climbs back up to the crest of Tussey Mountain.

There the trail exits the state forest and continues onto State Game Land 97. In all, 15.5 miles of the Mid-State Trail are located on the Buchanan State Forest.

Tuscarora Trail

The Tuscarora Trail enters state forest land from the south along the summit of Tuscarora Mountain east of McConnellsburg, Fulton County. Panoramic views of Path Valley and Kittatinny Mountain can be enjoyed, along with a vista overlooking the greatest geographical relief in Pennsylvania.

Tuscarora Trail East Map (PDF)

Tuscarora Trail West Map (PDF)

The trail traverses Cowan’s Gap State Park in Allen’s Valley where it meets the historic old Forbes Road. The trail re-enters state forest going north and climbs to and follows the summit of Tuscarora Mountain again, crossing over the PA Turnpike. Fifteen miles of the Tuscarora Trail is located on state forest land.