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Terrace Mountain Trail provides hiking experiences spanning the length of
Raystown Lake from North to South in some of the area's most remote and
challenging terrain. The trail is used primarily by hikers, but many parts
are suitable for mountain bikes, horses, and overnight trips. Because of its
rugged terrain, remoteness, and length, the trail is open to everyone, but
intended for the more serious outdoor enthusiasts including but not limited
to bird watchers, geologists, historians, and photographers.
SOUTHERN SECTION
Length: 7.0 miles (Weaver Bridge north to PA Route 994).
Condition: The 5.5 miles of the Terrace Mountain
Trail, between Weaver's Bridge and Lake Raystown Resort follows the old
Tressler logging road. After leaving the Tressler road the trail meanders
through the woods, oftentimes becoming very rocky, but never too steep and
still a pleasant walk.
Trail Description and Interpretive Facts: (beginning at Weaver's
Falls and traveling North, downstream)
0.0 Mile
To locate the trail head, follow the signs for Weaver Falls Access Area.
Travel east on Route 913 and take the first turnoff to the left at the
eastern outskirts of Saxton. About a mile further on Route 913, there is
another road that leads to Weaver Falls. Both roads are marked with a sign
directing you to the Weaver Falls Access Area. The trail head is located at
the east side of the metal gate. If leaving a vehicle at the trail head,
please park at Weaver Falls Access Area.
.01 Mile
In April, 1993 a high water event occurred which caused Raystown Lake to
rise approximately 17 feet from its level that you see today of 786 feet
above sea level. To give some idea of how high that is, the driving level of
Weaver's Bridge that crosses the lake in front of you was submerged by 3
feet. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers officials provided a ferry across the
lake here for people that live on the other side.
.02 Mile
The hillside to the east of the gate was burned by a major forest fire in
1980. Accept this as a warning to use caution and care with fire.
.50 Mile
The trail follows the lakeshore allowing open views of the southern end of
Raystown Lake. After the first half mile, the trail climbs onto the wooded
slopes of Terrace Mountain.
.75 Mile
This open field has several old logging roads leading off the trail. Most of
the land surrounding the lake was privately owned before being purchased by
the federal government. These lands were once farms, hunting camps or
private woodlots. As you hike, you will see other signs of man's use or
misuse of our natural resources.
The steep shale slopes common around Raystown Lake create a situation unique
to the Ridge and Valley province of the Appalachians: the Shale Barrens. The
shale barrens provide a dry, almost desert-like habitat which supports some
very rare and unusual plant life. Some of these plants are found nowhere
else in the world, while others are normally found much farther west. Plants
such as a Hairy Lip Fern, Rock Selaginella, Barrens Bind-weed, and Barrens
Evening Primrose are found on the Raystown area barrens. Shale outcrops
along the first half mile of the trail comprise the Weaver Barrens, named in
honor of Jacob Weaver, an early settler in the area. Please stay on the
trail if you decide to look for some of the barrens flora; the environment
is very fragile and easily disturbed.
1.4 Mile
The moist soil and north exposure of the slope combine here to provide the
needed habitat for Rhododendron. The attractive white or pink blooms of
Rhododendron are produced in late June or early July. Its relatives, azalea
and Mountain Laurel, bloom earlier in the year.
2.25 Mile
Steep grade for one mile. Elevation change of 500 feet, reaching an
elevation of 1,360 feet above sea level at mile 3.25.
2.8 Mile
Putt's Camp intersection. Once operated by the Corps of Engineers as a
boat-to-shore campground, this area is now leased to the Boy Scouts for
exclusive use as a scout camping facility. Water and restroom facilities are
available to users of the trail; however, public camping is prohibited.
Follow the road toward the lake to access this Boy Scout camping area.
3.25 Mile
Top of hill. Steep grade to mile 4.5, at elevation of 900 feet.
A northern deciduous hardwood forest covers most of Terrace Mountain. A
forest of this type is dominated by several species of hickory, oak and
maple along with birches and Tulip Poplar. Smaller understory trees like
Dogwood, Redbud and American Hop Hornbeam grow in the shade of the larger
trees. The deciduous hardwood forest is also characterized by a spectacular
show of spring wildflowers. Early in spring, before the hardwoods have
produced leaves, plants like Trillium, Bloodroot, Hepatica and Trailing
Arbutus quickly take advantage of the sunlight by rapidly growing and
flowering. For the remainder of the summer, under the dense shade of the
hardwoods, few flowers bloom.
While hiking, observe the changes in the forest. Usually a moist, sheltered
area hidden from direct sunlight, supports the growth of White Pine, Eastern
Hemlock and Rhododendron. Conversely, while walking over dry and rocky
slopes, trees like Chestnut Oak and Pitch Pine will keep you company.
However, the Terrace Mountain forest is composed primarily of the Tulip
Poplar, maples, hickories and oaks.
In late May or early June, the mountain forests of
Pennsylvania abound with the pinkish to white blossoms of MOUNTAIN LAUREL
(Kalmia latifolia), the state flower. The shrub grows profusely on dry,
rocky ridges beneath the pines and oaks with its leathery 2 to 4 inch leaves
evident year-round. The blossoms are made up of a corolla of five fused
petals and are usually about ½ inch wide.
4.4 Mile
Around 1945 a lumberman named Mr. Tressler operated a lumber mill near this
area. Mr. Tressler graded and constructed the logging road that is now
designated as Terrace Mountain Trail.
5.4 Mile
Junction with service road to Lake Raystown Resort campground. Follow the
blue blazes to continue on the Terrace Mountain Trail.
5.6 Mile
Trail crosses a gravel service roadway. The drinking water reservoir for
Lake Raystown Resort is located at the top of the roadway.
6.6 Mile
Watch for a deer lick on the west (or lake) side of the trail. Certain
minerals are difficult to find in the wild. The soil at this spot must
supply a necessary dietary nutrient for the deer, and they frequently come
here to "lick" the soil and swallow some of the needed nutrient.
6.9 Mile
Before crossing Route 994 the trail crosses a cleared swath of land, under
which lies the Buckeye Pipeline, one of many pipelines to cross Raystown
Lake. One of the oldest in the area, the Buckeye Pipeline was constructed
around 1910. In the construction of this petroleum pipeline, trenches were
dynamited and hand dug, and mules were used to haul pipes.
7.0 Mile
Junction with Route 994. Trail continues directly across road.
SOUTH-CENTRAL SECTION
Length: 5.0 miles (PA Route 994 to Great Trough Creek).
Condition: The first 2.0 miles of this section follow a graded trail hand
cut into the mountainside. Occasionally the trail is very rocky and steep.
The last 3.0 miles follow an old logging road grade.
TATMAN RUN ACCESS AREA: Parking, potable water, comfort station, refuse
container, boat launch, beach swimming area, and a grassy picnic area and
shelter are provided here. Camping is prohibited in this area.
TRAIL DESCRIPTION (beginning at PA994 and traveling North,
downstream)
7.0 Mile
Terrace Mountain is an unbroken ridge, except in two places where steep
valleys were cut through the mountain by erosion from the waters of Tatman
Run and Great Trough Creek. Many millions of years were required for this to
occur. Additionally, the valley provides shady and moist conditions
resulting in the cool habitat required for the growth of rhododendron and
hemlock. Do you see either of these plants growing near-by?
7.1 Mile
As you stand on the bridge crossing Tatman Run imagine seeing water on all
sides of you. That is what happens nearly every spring as the snow melts and
the streams swell out of their banks. Tatman Run, a usually calm and serene
stream, has a very wide flood plain, as you can see, because Tatman Run
regularly fills this small valley with rushing water.
7.3 Mile
Junction with road to Tatman Run Access Area. Follow road to the west
(toward lake) for 1/4 mile to use facilities.
7.6 Mile
The Texas-Eastern pipeline, which crosses Terrace Mountain, lies underground
along this cleared path. This pipeline was constructed in the 1950's. The
four 36 inch diameter pipes transport natural gas from the Gulf of Mexico to
Manhattan. This is the largest of six pipelines that cross under Raystown
Lake.
8.0 Mile
While hiking, observe the changing character of the forest. The steep slopes
of shale support only sparse forest growth, primarily scrubby chestnut oaks.
In contrast, cool, shaded drainage basins will support lush maple forests.
8.1 Mile
While most of the Terrace Mountain Trail passes through the forests of the
Raystown Lake Project, several miles of the trail crosses lands of the
Rothrock State Forest. The state owned forest which the trail now enters has
been designated as a Wild Area, an area protected from future development.
Three parcels of land totaling 1,757 acres have been set aside for
recreational activities such as hiking, hunting and fishing. Timber
harvesting, road construction and motorized vehicles are prohibited to
protect the wild nature of this area.
8.5 Mile
Enjoy an open view of the lake from the rock overlook. The cliff is an
outcrop of sandstone.
9.5 Mile
This area abounds with artifacts left from lumber operations. Today the
lumber industry is important in Pennsylvania, but not nearly as crucial as
in years past. Years ago, charcoal fired iron furnaces and a booming
construction industry kept lumber operations quite busy. Nearly all of
Pennsylvania's forests have been timbered at one time or another, leaving
few virgin stands of timber. A virgin forest would be characterized by huge
old trees. Most forests now are made up of younger, "second growth" trees.
10.5 Mile
Looking across the lake you can see
Nancy's Camp. This campground is accessible only to those who come by
boat or foot.
10.8 Mile
Enjoy the view of both the lake and of the Great Trough Creek Bay before
descending to follow the Old Forge Road into
Trough Creek State Park.
11.0 Mile
Junction with Old Forge Road.
11.8 Mile
Cross the wooden foot bridge over Great Trough Creek. Much of the famed
"Juniata Iron" was produced at the numerous iron furnaces scattered
throughout the local region. The virgin forests in the area provided the
needed wood for charcoal, while mines along the eastern base of Tussey
Mountain provided necessary ore. The third ingredient, limestone, was
readily available in the adjacent limestone valleys. The remains of the
Paradise Furnace are here in Trough Creek State Park near the park
headquarters. The furnace was built by Reuben Trexler in 1827, and is
believed to have operated until 1866.
NORTH-CENTRAL SECTION
Length: 5.0 miles (Great Trough Creek to Paradise-John Bum Road)
Condition: The trail follows old logging roads interconnected with several
sections of hand dug trail. Condition is generally good.
Facilities: Trough Creek State Park at mile 11.9.
TROUGH CREEK STATE PARK: A small
park with a variety of attractions, including camping (with water and
toilet), hiking trails, museum, and phone.
TRAIL DESCRIPTION (beginning at Trough Creek State Park and traveling North,
downstream)
11.9 Mile
After crossing the wooden foot bridge, the trail follows Trough Creek Drive
down toward the lake again. Follow the road east (away from the lake) to the
State Park Campground or west (toward the lake) to continue on Terrace
Mountain Trail.
On a hot summer day, find relief from the heat by visiting
the Ice Mine where ice is usually present until August. Even after the ice
has melted, walking into the mine on a hot day is like entering a
refrigerator. Cold winter temperatures cool the rock mass of the hillside
above the mine causing cold air from these rocks to flow down into the mine
well into summer. In spring, melting snow water enters the mine opening and
freezes as it meets the flow of cold air. The warmer air of spring and
summer condenses when it meets the cold air of the mine and the resulting
condensation freezes to form more ice.
12.0 Mile
Rock outcroppings are primarily sandstone of the Pocono formation. This
geological formation is approximately 340 million years old, forming in an
age when much of the earth was covered with lush vegetation. Most of our
nation's coal formed in the same era. Thin layers of coal are present in the
cliffs of Trough Creek Valley. Close examination may reveal some of these
layers.
12.7 Mile
For a period of six years, beginning in 1913, the fifteen mile Juniata and
Southern Railroad operated between the villages of Aitch and Jacobs. The
line was first used as a logging railroad to carry timber out of the Trough
Creek Valley but later the J&S carried some of the coal from the mine at
Jacobs. The J&S was a standard gauge railroad connecting with the Huntingdon
& Broad Top Railroad. In Huntingdon most of the timber, pulpwood and bark
was transferred to the Pennsylvania Railroad and finally carried on to Lock
Haven. During this period, excursion trains carrying picnickers left
Huntingdon for the "Paradise Furnace". Today, the villages of Aitch and
Jacobs are no longer in existence. Jacobs was abandoned in the 1920's, when
the coal seam disappeared. A portion of the town of Aitch is now under water
near the present Aitch Access Area. A part of the Juniata and Southern line
survives now as the Trough Creek Drive. Between the Ice Mine and this
turnoff, the Terrace Mountain Trail retraces a section of the old railroad
line.
13.4 Mile
The stone wall is proof that a farm once existed here. At every spring
planting, farmers would remove numerous rocks which their plow would turn
up. These rocks would be hauled to the edge of the field and pieced together
to form a wall. Over the years the walls would become quite substantial. The
story goes that a high, well built stone wall was a sure sign of a
prosperous farm.
14.2 Mile
The low cliffs of sandstone are part of a geological formation approximately
360 million years old called the Hampshire formation. This formation of
shale and sandstone is noted for its red color.
15.5 Mile
Near the trail is an old saw dust pile well worth seeing. The erosive action
of wind and rain have formed the sawdust into numerous spires. The abundant
signs of deer around the pile also suggests that deer may use the pile as a
"lick".
16.4 Mile
Once across the wooden foot-bridges, the trail splits. If you go up the
hill, the trail shortcuts from one logging road, along the ridge to join
with another logging road. If you go down the hill, the trail follows an old
logging road all the way to the lake shore, then circles along the lake and
climbs back up to the trail. At the split, look along the downhill edge of
the road for rocks with grapefruit sized holes pitting their surface. The
rocks have a "Swiss cheese" appearance. Over the ages weathering has eaten
away at the soft rock which filled these holes, leaving NOTE: This is the
current end of the Terrace Mountain Trail. The trail will dead end
approximately one mile from this point at the lake shore.
John Bum Intersection
To return to Trough Creek State Park Campground go to your right as you exit
the trail. From there you will follow the Paradise - John Bum Road and then
branch off, again to the right, onto the Terrace Mountain Road. Trough Creek
State Park is approximately 5 miles from here by the road.
NORTHERN SECTION
Length: INCOMPLETE 10.0 Miles (Paradise - John Bum
Intersection past Raystown Dam area to Corbin's Bridge)
Condition: The trail follows the old Fink's Road to the
road's end in the Raystown Lake. From that point northward, the trail will
traverse the hillsides and follow old roads when possible, but the area is
under construction and may not be marked or even cleared. Sections may be
steep and rocky.
Facilities: There are NO improved facilities along this
section of trail.
TRAIL DESCRIPTION (beginning at John Bum Intersection and
traveling North, downstream)
17.5 Mile
As the trail descends along Fink's Road, it crosses four more pipelines. The
first two are a combination of pipelines running together. The Allegheny
pipeline was constructed and placed in 1943 and carries liquefied natural
gas. The Laurel pipeline, lying just beside the Allegheny, carries petroleum
products and was built in 1958.
If you are standing in their open pathway looking across the lake, you can
see the Seven Points recreation area including the beach, marina, and Laurel
and Allegheny picnic areas, among other things. These two picnic areas were
named for the pipelines that run directly underground beneath them.
18.0 Mile
The next pipeline that the trail crosses is the Sun pipeline, carrying
petroleum products and built in 1936.
18.1 Mile
The Mobil Company owns the northernmost pipeline to cross Raystown Lake.
Also carrying petroleum products, it was built in 1946.
18.1 Mile
This point is where the Terrace Mountain Trail stops as of the most recent
printing of this guide. As mentioned earlier, the trail is being planned and
constructed northward along the Terrace Mountain and will provide hiking
along the entire eastern lake shore upon its completion.
18.2 - 30.0 Mile
UNDER CONSTRUCTION
19.0 Mile
Directly across the lake from where you stand is
Susquehannock Campground. The area is a primitive campground with 67
campsites, owned and operated by the Corps of Engineers through the summer
season.
20.5 Mile
If you follow this road to the top of the mountain you will find yourself in
an area that permits vehicle access. By traveling PA 829 and turning onto
TR428 at the southern bottom of the hill, then turning onto the first left
(SR3051) and following it straight, you will dead end at a metal gate where
you can park and access the trail.
This road was originally built during construction of the dam and other lake
related facilities. It provided access to a rock quarry and to the lake
shore from the eastern side of the lake in an area that was previously
inaccessible by vehicle.
22.0 Mile
The trail is no longer paralleling the lake as the dam and impounding
structures are now upstream. If you can look through the trees you will see
the Raystown Branch of the Juniata River flowing below. Through the warm
summer months this stream is excellent for warm water fishing, swimming,
tubing, and many other water activities. As always, be safe around the
water.
27.0 Mile
Corbin's Bridge.
Directions:
Trough Creek State Park can be reached by traveling 16 miles south from
Huntingdon along PA 26, then five miles east along PA 994 near the village
of Entriken.
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