OVERVIEW 

This place is simply stunning and has become my go-to hike when I need to get out for a quick adventure. Each time I go for a hike here I notice something new when I switch up my route from one loop to the next. This preserve is one that you cannot miss.

Covering a vast 3,565 acres, the Bear Creek Preserve is larger than many state parks and has become a favorite hiking location for many outdoor lovers in NEPA. From the parking area, you have quick access to multiple trails that are well marked and easy to follow - you can download the trail map using the link above. The trails vary in length and difficulty from a quick and easy 1-mile loop to a 6+ mile loop that is a little more difficult - there are over 31 miles of trails here. 

The trails are well maintained but can get pretty muddy after a good rain. Several bridges exist across the creek but some primitive water crossings do exist. I always keep an extra pair of shoes or flip-flops in the car just in case. You will find small benches scattered throughout the preserve that allow you to sit and relax and look for some of the native wildlife, including black bear, coyote, bobcat, fox, Bald Eagle, Osprey, and many species of migratory songbirds. 

The Bear Creek Preserve is part of a larger system of state parks and game lands that spans more than 150,000 acres.
 

PHOTOS FROM THE TRAIL 

TRAIL NOTES 

KNOWN FOR 
Family Friendly | Birding/Wildlife | Waterfalls | River/Creek | Fall Colors | Overlook/Vista | Photography | Hiking | Trail Running

PET FRIENDLY 
Dogs are permitted but must be kept on a leash. 

TRAIL MAP 
Bear Creek Preserve Natural Lands Trail Map (pdf)

MY PICKS 

No matter what trail you take, you cannot go wrong. Below are my favorite routes. 

🟡 Yellow Loop - Easy 1.1 miles

🟢 Green Loop - Moderate 2.1 miles

🔴⚪️ Red to Gray Loop - Difficult 6.1+ miles

GPS, HOURS & PARKING

Bear Creek Preserve is open year-round from sunrise to sunset.
Parking is limited and can be found at 47 Rabbit Run Lane, Bear Creek, PA 18702.
You will be towed if you park on State Route 115.

Remember to stay on designated trails to protect plants and prevent wildlife disturbance. Rattlesnakes, bears, and ticks call this preserve home - always use caution when hiking.  

NEARBY ADVENTURES

• Breaker Brewing Company
• Seven Tubs Natural Area
• Pinchot State Forest - Thornhurst Tract
• Francis E. Walter Dam
• Jack Frost Big Boulder

MORE OF MY TRAIL NOTES
Check out my other blog posts here.

Resources: Natural Lands 

Note: Masks are required indoors and outdoors. When indoors, masks are required anytime you're with people outside of your household, even if you're socially distant. Face masks are required in all federal buildings and on federal lands. Always check local guidelines before traveling.