Fourth Run, Stage and Park Road Loop

Hickory Run State Park is one of Pennsylvania's beautiful woodland parks. The Fourth Run Trail, Stage Trail and Park Road Loop hike offers an opportunity for adventurers to wander through scenic forest and see some of the park's special features.From the park's main road, Route 534, park in the lot across the street from the chapel. Cross the road and walk over the bridge toward the chapel. Here, hikers will see a picturesque scene with a waterfall flowing in front of the quaint historic chapel. Once a part of the long gone town of Hickory Run, the chapel remains as a testament to the park's namesake town.Walk beyond the chapel along the small park road and watch for the Fourth Run Trail sign leading adventurers into the woods and then along the power line. This section offers little shade. Enjoy the variety of plants and flowers that love the abundant sunshine.Fourth Run eventually leads back into the forest and intersects with Stage Trail. This trail was once a stagecoach road between Allentown and Wilkes-Barre. Today, the trail leads through woodlands and past abundant Mountain-laurel. Visit mid-late June to see this Pennsylvania state flower in bloom. Follow the trail through the woods and past a clearing to see a man-made waterfall. Next to the waterfall, hikers will find a bench to sit, relax and enjoy the peaceful scene.From the waterfall, walk downhill on the shaded park road. Normally, there are only a few cars on the road;but use caution. The road is one-way, so listen for cars approaching from behind. This area is full of rhododendron bushes lining the road. The bushes bloom profusely in the summertime, typically early to mid-July.Another interesting feature is that the road has a section designed to have cars drive through shallow flowing water. A well-constructed stone and wooden pedestrian bridge is available for hikers to walk over the water. The road then leads back to the chapel to complete a beautiful and interesting hike.