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 Betsy 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 at the west end of the trail before you enter state forest lands. Also note that although it appears the trail continues beyond Bark Road, this is private property and is posted as such.
Difficulty
This is a Pennsylvania “drivable trail," which means it receives little maintenance, and a high-clearance 4x4 vehicle is recommended. This route is primarily a narrow and rocky two-track trail.
History
West Pittman Road likely follows or connects to regions historically managed for forest conservation or tied to land purchased by the Commonwealth between 1904 and the 1930s after the decline of the logging industry. Many such roads in Buchanan State Forest were built or improved by Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) workers during the Great Depression, providing vital access for forest management, recreation, and fire suppression. While specific CCC camp sites are documented near Oregon Creek, Bear Valley, Sweet Root, and Blankley Road, many secondary roads, like West Pittman, were part of the broader CCC infrastructure legacy.
