Trail Overview
Marks Run Road is a 4-mile out-and-back ungraded dirt and grass trail. It follows the power line and is a moderate ride in the summer months; however, there is no maintenance at all on this trail. During rain, snow, and ice, the trail can become heavily rutted and extremely difficult to travel on. There may be downed trees or large branches that will have to be cleared to continue on. The road crosses Marks Run, and that area is wet. muddy, swampy section. Marks Run Road is within Moshannon State Forest. This area of Moshannon is part of the Quehanna Wild Area. There are numerous spots to stop along this road and enjoy the foliage and possible wildlife. There are a few campsites in this part of Moshannon State Forest to choose from. This region of Pennsylvania is a great place to explore during the fall when the leaves are changing color, and the full beauty of the State Forest is on display.
Difficulty
Marks Run Road is primarily an ungraded dirt and grass trail. It is a rutted and muddy ride in the summer months; however, there is no maintenance, which means you may need a chainsaw. During times of rain, snow, and ice, the road will become heavily rutted and extremely hard to travel on. There are areas of deep rutting, heavy mud, and standing water up to 18". Where the road crosses Marks Run, there is a large, swampy, muddy, wet area that is hard to cross.
History
The Quehanna Wild Area is a massive 50,000-acre protected wilderness in north-central Pennsylvania, spanning Cameron, Clearfield, and Elk counties. Managed within the Elk and Moshannon State Forests, it is the largest State Forest Wild Area in the state and is heavily renowned for its native elk herd, rugged backcountry trails, and unique nuclear history.
