Iron Horse Trail

Unknown
9.61 Miles
Perry

Trail Description

This is a moderate 9.5 mile circuit beginning at Big Spring State Forest Picnic Area. Located in the Tuscarora State Forest, the main path is composed of old railroad grades. On the east side of PA Rt 274 is the Perry Lumber Railroad. On the west side of the road is the Path Valley Railroad. The grades themselves decrease and increase in elevation quite gradually. At times however, you are forced to surrender the grade to avoid some eroded conditions. Some steep but short climbs are involved to accomplish this. A fair portion of the Perry Lumber RR grade still has the rocky ballast. You cross and parallel several streams and Sherman Creek along this segment of the hike. All stream crossings are bridged. Most of the ballast had been removed from the Path Valley grade after it was closed. Short sections of the trail closely parallel the road on either side. One such section between the Epy's cemetery and the turn around point is overgrown with thorns. There are also two small clear cut areas you have to hike by. Despite these detractions this is still a pretty nice walk in the woods. There is a short 1 mile loop to a failed tunnel should you want to lengthen your trip.

Visit Trail Website