Trail Overview
This route features one of the more beautiful and nicely landscaped vistas in all of the Pennsylvania state forests. It's a nice scenic drive that runs along the southern part of Sideling Hill. It's the primary a north/south unpaved route through this forest tract south of US 30. It's an easy and enjoyable way to spend a bit more than an hour, longer if you stop at the very nice picnic area, with restrooms, at the north end. South of the picnic area, you pass the aforementioned vista and several homes with amazing views to the east. Be respectful of the private property in this area. South of there, you cross back into the state forest, and you'll find the rest of the way to be quiet amongst the trees with the views to the east and west peeking through them occasionally.
Difficulty
This trail is a typical Pennsylvania Forest Service route, consisting primarily of well-maintained gravel. It is smooth and easy to drive, with minimal obstacles or technical challenges.
History
The road originated in the era when the state acquired cut-over lands left by logging companies and began efforts to restore the forests through public land purchases and conservation. During the Great Depression, CCC camps throughout Buchanan worked on constructing and upgrading forest roads, including Bark Road, which provided needed access for forest management, fire suppression, and recreation.
