Forest and Lake Trail Loop

This moderate route begins across PA Route 18 from the park office on Raccoon Park Road in Raccoon Creek State Park. From the trailhead, follow signs for the Lake Trail, staying left just after the bridge to connect with the Forest Trail as the route loops through mixed hardwood forest. Early sections wind through dense trees before reaching several open views of Raccoon Lake. Turn right at the next signed junction to rejoin the Lake Trail and follow it back along the shoreline. The terrain is rolling, with occasional steeper pitches and stream crossings that may be muddy during wet conditions. Along the western portion of the route, look for the remains of a historic springhouse tucked into the woods near the Lake Trail. In spring and early summer, wildflowers are abundant throughout the forest understory. Several informal lake access points appear along the way, offering good spots to rest or filter water. The route finishes back near the starting point, forming a complete circuit through one of the best forest and lakeside day hikes in western Pennsylvania.