The Old Loggers Path in Loyalsock State Forest near Masten, PA is a beautiful 27 mile loop trail. The OLP is pretty mild in terms of elevation gain and loss as a large portion of the OLP utilizes old logging grades . Water is also plentiful along the OLP making it a great trail for beginner backpackers to enjoy their first multi-day trip.
There are two shelters located at Sprout Point Vista and Doe Run. Each shelter is quite large and could easily house 5-6 hikers comfortably. The Doe Run shelter has a water source while the Sprout Point shelter is dry. These shelters are first-come-first-serve. The OLP has several other unnamed but beautiful vistas along its northwestern edge. The crown jewel of the OLP is the section of trail traversing the edge of Rock Run. Rock Run is a spectacular stream that draws a lot of visitors during nice weather. On the decent to Rock Run hiking clockwise, there is also a spectacular waterfall located just off the trail. There is no established side trail to this water fall so the trip down can be a little tricky.
The OLP can typically be completed in 2-3 days. Being a loop, the OLP can be hiked CCW or CW comfortably. There are also several parking areas spread out along the trail but the main trail head is at Masten. We recommend using Ellenton Mountain Rd and Masten Rd to approach the Masten trail head from the north. Many of the other improved dirt roads leading to this trail head are sometimes damaged by flood waters or blocked by fallen trees.
Maps can be obtained from the Loyalsock State Forest office (570-946-4049) and are available on a limited basis at the Masten trail head.