Trail Overview
A fun "drivable trail" for high clearance 4x4 vehicles in the southern part of the Sideling Hill Tract of Buchanan State Forest. Not technical unless weather is a factor, but loose rock and about 750 feet of elevation change make for an enjoyable diversion. Best enjoyed along with West Pittman Road and some of the recreation opportunities, like camping, hunting, picnicking, etc, along Bark Road when exploring the part of this tract that is south of US 30. Although rocky and sometimes rutted, this is a fairly scenic trail as well, but there are no vistas along the way. Be respectful of the private property along much of the west end of the trail before you cross back into state forest lands. Also note that although it appears the trail continues beyond Bark Road, this is private property.
Difficulty
This is a Pennsylvania “drivable trail," which means it receives little maintenance, and a high-clearance 4x4 vehicle is recommended. The route is rocky with occasional wet, muddy sections that generally have a firm base.
History
Betsy Road, similar to West Pittman Road to the north, is associated with the period of resettlement lands—properties acquired from marginal farms or at tax sales, then deeded to the Commonwealth and incorporated into the state forest system. These roads provided access to remote tracts, old cemeteries, and pre-Civil War historical sites as part of ongoing development in the forest. Both roads reflect the transformation from cut-over, eroded lands to thriving forests, supporting recreation and conservation while serving as connectors to historic and scenic sites.
