Susquehannock Trail

Susquehannock Trail is a long-distance hiking route forming the Susquehannock Trail System (STS), a remote 85-mile loop in Pennsylvania’s Potter and Clinton counties. It links together old foot trails, logging roads, and abandoned railroad grades into one marked system.

The route is designed for hard, rugged backpacking days: expect big elevation swing and long, repeatedly steep climbs and descents across forested hills and valleys. The best way to think about the terrain is “Allegheny Plateau style” walking—top-of-plateau grades paired with frequent dips down into hollows and then back up.

Navigation is built around consistent orange blazes (2" x 6" paint), with section trailheads and access points that break the loop into manageable segments. Hikers typically travel the loop in a clockwise direction to match the system’s traditional mileage progression.

Major route character includes remote hardwood forest, isolated stretches through the Hammersley Wild Area, and multiple stream crossings. Water access is generally dependable because the trail follows or crosses creeks and streams, but wet seasons can make crossings and low sections harder underfoot.

Overnight logistics are straightforward for an established long loop: the route contains numerous pre-existing campsites marked by stone fire rings and a network of overnight shelters. Camping is largely within Susquehannock State Forest, while some segments pass through areas where primitive camping restrictions apply.

Regulations and preparedness matter on this route: plan for distance, bring an appropriate water treatment plan, and when rain is expected or conditions are wet, be ready for slick/uneven ground and more challenging stream crossings. Scout for shelter and campsite locations ahead of time so you’re not making late-day decisions in marshy or flooded sections.

More information: Wikipedia, Susquehannock Trail System Backpacking Guide, Hiking in Susquehannock State Forest