The Best Trail Running Routes in Pennsylvania

The Path of the Flood Trail is a historic and scenic run in Pennsylvania that follows the route of the devastating Johnstown Flood of 1889, which killed more than 2,200 people and destroyed much of the city....

Located off PA-26 and just a short drive from downtown, this trail run is an excellent introduction to the rugged, relentless rocks of Central Pennsylvania. Beginning across from Jo Hays Vista, the route traverses the Jackson Trail across a ridge, then returns via orange-blazed Mid State Trail....

This is by far one of the best trail runs in Rothrock State Forest. Less than 30 minutes from downtown State College, this is a must-do for locals and travelers alike....

Blue Marsh Lake is an epic and long trail run in a very unsuspecting corner of Pennsylvania. With southern trailheads less than 15 minutes from Reading and northern access points less than 20 minutes from Interstate 78, Blue Marsh is a staple run for locals and an excellent option even if you're traveling through....

This circuit through Black Moshannon SP is one of the top long runs near State College. Just over 12-miles total, the loop is relatively flat as it circles the reconstituted bog the park was built around....

Overlooking State College from the east, Mount Nittany is one of the best places to head for a trail run near town. 6 vistas are packed into this sub-5 mile loop, and there is no better option around to see this much in such a short amount of time....

One of the premier mountain biking destinations in Pennsylvania, Raystown Lake is home to nearly 40-miles of spectacular singletrack that make for a great trail run. Though cyclists from around the country flock to the Allegrippis Trails, all 24 trails were built with hiking, trail running, snowshoeing, and even cross-country skiing in mind - so lace up your shoes, fill your hydration vest, and head out for your new favorite trail run in central Pennsylvania....

Located near Greenwood Furnace State Park, and along the final few miles of the [Standing Stone Trail](https://fatmap.com/guidebooks/237/pennsylvania's-finest-hike-the-standing-stone-trail), visiting the Stone Valley Vista on foot is one of the classic short runs in the area....

The Tussey Mountain Trail is arguably the most iconic and recognized trail in Rothrock State Forest. While there are endless ways to form loops, this is arguably the most popular among trail runners and mountain bikers alike....

Located deep in the Appalachian Mountains lies this incredible, lesser known 80-mile hiking trail. Commonly referred to as the SST, the Standing Stone Trail provides an incredible thru-hike or run with endless options for day runs to rocky vistas and unique rock formations....

The Loyalsock Trail is the ultimate long-run goal for any distance trail runner in Pennsylvania - or the Northeast, for that matter. Blazed with 2x6" yellow markers, the 60ish mile-long trail tours some of the most remote corners of Pennsylvania and includes an endless selection of stunning views overlooking a mountain gorge, and numerous creeks and waterfalls that feed it....

This long run through Rothrock is one of the best ways to explore the Tussey Mountain, Bear Meadows, and part of the Mid-State Trail in one standing. You'll enjoy beautiful views, plenty of wildflowers and fungi, and a large bog with a diverse selection of wildlife....

This 10-miler from Galbraith Gap in Rothrock links the historic Little Flat Fire Tower, the Mid-State Trail, and parts of Shingletown Gap for a challenging 10ish miler near State College. Expect steep, technical, and rocky terrain, and know that the views don't come easily....

Considered one of the quieter corners of Rothrock, Shingletown Gap is a local favorite and a convenient spot to enjoy a rail run near town. Several intersecting trails - some easier, some harder - offer plenty of options to shorten or lengthen your run, though it may take a few visits before you can feel comfortable without a map....

The Allegheny Front Trail is one of the most epic undertakings available to runners in central PA. Nearly 42-miles in length, the AFT circles Black Moshannon State Park along beautiful singletrack and through a diversity of ecosystems....

This run tours the Detweiler Run Natural Area, which is part of the greater Rothrock State Forest. Typical of central PA, you'll enjoy a *hefty* serving of rocks and guaranteed solitude since it is further into the forest than other local classics....

The Rothrock Challenge is a popular trail race near State College that tours some of central PA's most notorious trails. Racers will enjoy running beneath dark hemlock and spruce forests, along mountainsides covered with ferns, beneath blooming mountain laurel - all while enjoying some nice views along the way! This course also utilizes trails that are open to the public year-round, meaning this route is one that can be enjoyed even outside of race day....

The Sproul 10k in Hyner, PA, is a remarkably difficult trail race with stunning views, techy singletrack, and water crossings - all explored during the punishing heat of July. It's often noted as one of the *toughest* 10k's in all of Pennsylvania, and the massive 400-person field hits the trail at 10 a....

First and foremost, the Frozen Snot is not a race for beginners. Those who show up on race day are faced with some of Pennsylvania's toughest terrain - 12.5 miles with over 5,800-feet of climbing - all, during the coldest part of the year....

Located deep in the Appalachian Mountains lies this incredible, lesser known 80-mile hiking trail. Commonly referred to as the SST, the Standing Stone Trail provides an incredible thru-hike or run with endless options for day trips to rocky vistas and unique rock formations....