The Cold Run Trail in Loyalsock State Forest features fun boulder formations to explore, a scenic view, and ephemeral falls
The Cold Run Trail is a fun, invigorating hike on the side of the Loyalsock Gorge in Sullivan County, PA near World’s End State Park. The trail begins at the top of the gorge, off of Cold Run Road, about a mile east of the Loyalsock Canyon Vista. From the parking lot follow the unmarked trail east about a tenth of a mile until you encounter the yellow-blazed trail. The trail will lead down a small rock cliff and swing left to some amazing rock formations including this boulder arch.
Pass through the arch into a corridor of gigantic boulders. The photos don’t do it justice. Be sure to see the video of our adventure at the bottom of the post.
From the boulder formation and cliffs, follow the yellow trail south as it tracks with the contour of the gorge and passes over some ephemeral streams. There are places that look like they should be waterfalls but were only trickles when we visited.
The trail then turns and follows the trickles into the gorge. The most significant “waterfall” on the trail is Cold Run Falls at 41.46180, -76.55472. Cold Run Falls is visible form the main trail and you can go right to it via a short spur.
Although Cold Run Falls is lacking in volume, the most interesting aspect is the shape of the rocks at the top of the falls. Note how the rock slabs are carved out in the center, looking like gigantic bites were taken out of them.
Shortly after cold run falls, the trail reaches the low point (elevation-wise) into the gorge then curves and ascends to the Cold Run Vista. Take a few minutes to relax on the bench and take in the scenery.
From the Cold Run Vista, the trail ascends gradually, then more steeply via switchback. At the top of the gorge, you are rewarded with even more amazing rock formations than at the beginning!
Here is a fun figure we call “Swing Your Hips!” Can you see it?
After exploring the boulder formations to your heart’s content, follow the blue blazed trail back to the yellow trail, forming a loop. Then head back to the parking lot.
Overall the trail was 1.8 miles.
Parking is at 41.46144, -76.56100.
The boulder areas are denoted by the orange fields on the map.
There is no cell service in the area, so we recommend downloading any necessary maps in advance of your trip.
This was a short hike but with enough elevation change partway down into the gorge to get your blood pumping. The gigantic boulder formations near the beginning of the hike, particularly the arch, were great, but the formations at the end were even better! Since they are near the top of the gorge, a short distance from the road, you can visit the boulder formations without the journey into the gorge if that’s what you’re after. The rocks of the waterfalls in the gorge were interesting, but the water itself was just trickles.
While you are in the area, visit the Loyalsock Canyon Vista and Rock Garden a mile up the road.
Looking to stay in the area? We highly recommend World’s End State Park. Check out our Complete World’s End State Park Camping Review.
Also, be sure to check out our other adventures.
