Trail Overview
Absolutely one of my favorite trails through Moshannon State Forest! Traversing upland bogs and plateaus, Wilson Switch Road reaches one of the highest points along the forest's trails and roads. The area features unique wetlands altered by historical logging and beaver activity, providing habitat for birdwatchers. This is mostly a gravel road, though at the eastern end it is more dirt and at times mud. These sections can be a bit slippery and rutted depending on recent rains. It's very scenic as it winds through this interesting part of Moshannon State Forest and passes several hunting camps and cabins. Towards the east end, it also passes by some sort of electrical substation at the power line cut, which is unusual to see in a state forest.
Difficulty
The west end is primarily gravel and well-maintained. The east end can have some muddy and rutted areas. In general, this should be passable by any street-legal vehicle, but at times the east end may require a bit more than 2WD. A stock 4x4 and most AWD vehicles should not have an issue except after significant snow.
History
Along with Big Medix Grade Road, this road runs along historic logging routes and railroad grades. Specifically, this trail was cleared in 1893 by the Medix Run Lumber Co. for a railroad to haul lumber from the forest. The connecting roads were also part of this extensive railroad that had 70 miles of track and operated five 90-ton, gear-driven Shay locomotives. All the grades were abandoned in 1912.
