Hickory Creek Wilderness Trail

Hickory Creek Wilderness Trail is a long hike in Allegheny National Forest (Pennsylvania) centered on Hickory Creek. It’s a remote, densely forested loop that many people do as a long day hike or as an overnight backpacking trip.

Route length is typically about 12–13.6 miles (loop), with an estimated 5.5–7 hours of hiking time. The elevation gain is around 1,302 ft, which is where the “moderate” work comes from.

Navigation is part of the challenge: trail standards are primitive, blazes can be sparse/infrequent, and you should plan on using an offline map and compass rather than expecting constant signage.

Foot travel is the intended use. The trail goes through wilderness where cell service is extremely limited or absent once you’re deep in the area.

Water and camping are tied to stream crossings. Reliable water is available near Jack’s Run and Coon’s Run, and there are established primitive campsites relatively close to those areas for overnight trips.

For planning, assume minimal infrastructure and self-sufficiency. Bring a reliable water filter, and be ready for primitive conditions rather than maintained trail infrastructure.

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