Loyalsock Trail landscape

Photo: Photo by Ryan Stone on Unsplash

Loyalsock Trail

~5 days · 56.8 mi · strenuous · Point-to-point

Quick facts

Distance56.8 mi
Days out5
Elevation gain10,200 ft
Gain / mile180 ft
High point2,133 ft

What the Loyalsock Trail is known for

The Loyalsock Trail runs 59.2 miles point-to-point through Loyalsock State Forest in north-central Pennsylvania — from Mead Road near Laporte to PA 87 north of Montoursville as mapped here — threading gorges, waterfalls, and ridgetop views. Maintained by the Alpine Club of Williamsport since the 1930s, it has primitive campsites along the way; most backpackers take four to six days.

Route map & campsites

Route map of the Loyalsock Trail on OpenStreetMap terrain Open in Planner →

Route shape from OpenStreetMap geometry. Start · End · Camp

Elevation profile

Elevation ranges from 2,562 ft to 6,532 ft over 56.8 mi. Measured from OSM geometry (approximate).

  • Uphill 24.5 mi · 44%
  • Downhill 25.5 mi · 46%
  • Flat 5.8 mi · 10%

Ridgefold breaks every route into uphill, downhill, and flat — see the full per-day breakdown in the app.

Frequently asked questions

How many days does the Loyalsock Trail take?

Most backpackers hike the Loyalsock Trail in about 5 days (4 nights out) over its 56.8 miles, though pace varies with fitness and conditions.

How much elevation gain is on the Loyalsock Trail?

The Loyalsock Trail climbs roughly 10,200 ft total — about 180 ft per mile, topping out near 2,133 ft.

Related trails

Sources & attribution

Route geometry and stats derived from OpenStreetMap (© OpenStreetMap contributors, ODbL) — source relation. Stats are approximate and may differ from official surveys; permit rules and conditions change — verify with the managing authority before your trip. Last reviewed July 2026.

Plan the Loyalsock Trail Plan Free →