Sproul State Forest was the first Pennsylvania State Forest. Located in northern Centre county and western Clinton county, this state forest encompasses over 300,000 acres of land. The west branch of the Susquehanna River bisects the state forest. There are a number of hiking trails found in Sproul State Forest, including two long distance hiking trails. The Chuck Keiper Trail and Donut Hole Trail are great trails for overnight backpacking. If dayhiking is more your speed, you’ll find plenty of opportunities around Kettle Creek State Park or Hyner Run State Park. To see what Sproul State Forest has to offer in regards to hiking, make sure to participate in “Prowl the Sproul”, hosted every summer by DCNR and the Keystone Trails Association.

Source: Sproul State Forest – PAHikes

The Allegheny National Forest (ANF), Pennsylvania’s only National Forest, is approximately 517,000 acres and includes land in Elk, Forest, McKean and Warren counties in the northwestern corner of the State. About 463,000 acres are forested, 42,000 acres are non-forest, and 11,000 acres are covered by water (primarily the Allegheny Reservoir).$10.95Add to CartAllegheny National Forest Hiking Guideby Allegheny Group Sierra Club The North Country National Scenic Trail and Baker Trail are the two long distance backpacking trail that traverse the ANF. There are shorter trails that can also be used for overnight backpacking as well as trails for dayhikes. Some of these trails include the Minister Creek Trail, Buzzard Swamp Trails, Tracy Ridge, and Hearts Content areas, just to name a few. The ANF allows primitive camping while backpacking and also has many designated campsites that are available for a small fee and allow for dayhikes from a base camp.

Source: Allegheny National Forest – PAHikes