EMPORIUM – Although the wet summer months have made it difficult to create and improve trails, staff members at the Elk State Forest have made significant improvements.
Since restricting cross-country equine riding to designated trail riding this year, the Thunder Mountain Equine Trail length has more than doubled. The trail has expanded from 26 miles to 63 miles in length, with several loops.
Continued trail improvements will occur, like stoning soft areas and pruning tree limbs. However, work will not take place during the busy riding season, which is during the elk viewing season.
Cooperation with the Pennsylvania Game Commission has expanded the riding opportunities and created access for riders to both the Thunder Mountain Equine Trail and the PGC’s designated trails.
“Our hope is to have a sustainable trail system that provides a superior recreation opportunity for visitors while retaining the wild character of the state forest,” said Jeanne Wambaugh, district forester.
Trail maps are available at the District Office. For more information, please call the District Office at 814-486-3353. Or you can visit the bureau online at www.dcnr.state.pa.us or on Facebook.