Fern Rock Nature Trail

This easy hiking route begins on the west side of Hwy. 3009 (Worlds End Road), just southwest of Worlds End State Park, atop a forested mountain in Loyalsock State Forest. The trail forms a gentle circuit through northern hardwoods, where birch, maple, and hemlock shade a lush understory dominated by ferns. Yellow blazes marked with blue “FR” guide hikers along the well-defined path, which winds over rugged terrain and past scattered sandstone outcrops formed from ancient marine sediment. Interpretive signs along the route describe the ecology of this moist, acidic forest, making it a good choice for educational day hikes in northeastern Pennsylvania. While the route is rated easy, expect uneven footing with slick or muddy patches, especially after rain. Dogs are welcome on leash, but there are no reliable water sources, and camping is not allowed on the trail itself. Hikers can extend the route via nearby trails—most notably the Loyalsock Trail just to the north. The rewarding highlights of this short route are the dense fern carpets, fascinating rock features, and peaceful forest surroundings.