Ticklish Rock is a peculiarly precarious rock formation in Sullivan County, PA that looks like it could topple at any moment.
Ticklish rock is a most unusual rock formation and hidden gem on the edge of a mountain in Sullivan County, PA, overlooking the Muncy Valley. I’ll frontload by telling you that this oddity is certainly worth the visit if you are in the area. Ticklish rock is accessed via a gravel road with a trailhead at 41.35317, -76.64820. There is a small parking area across the road from the trailhead. The first thing you will notice when pulling up to the trailhead is the sportsman’s club house. Ticklish Rock is on private property, but the Ticklish Rock Hunting Club graciously allows public access, so please be respectful of the property. There is a sign at the trailhead indicating when access is allowed; see the video at the end of this post.
It is a short 0.2 mile walk to Ticklish Rock. The trail climbs about 100 feet in elevation up a fern-carpeted hillock then plateaus through a grassy open area. Follow the trail to the rock ledge at 41.35009, -76.64786. Look down and there it is: Ticklish Rock!
Although Ticklish Rock is the star of the show, the cliffs above are noteworthy as well. Take time to explore the intricacies of the rock. For example, note the natural pillar in the cliff below.
There is a trail down the cliff to the base of Ticklish Rock where you can better appreciate its uncanny splendor. The cliff ledges form something of natural steps, but they take some care and maneuvering to navigate.
How does it stand? Note the twisting pedestal and the thin stacked plates that look like a disheveled pile of cards. Amazing.
As a bonus, we found a black rat snake happily sun-bathing in a crevice.
Overall, the adventure was approximately 0.4 miles out and back.
Parking and the trailhead is at 41.35317, -76.64820.
Ticklish Rock is at 41.35009, -76.64786.
There is no track marked on the map, but the trail is obvious when you are there.
A few items to note before you go:
- As this is private property, please be respectful and abide by the property owner’s rules.
- Check for ticks; we got one walking through the short grass to Ticklish Rock.
- As this is a south-facing rock cliff, be on the lookout for cool snakes.
The photos and videos are great, but as always they don’t do it justice. Ticklish Rock is a truly amazing oddity of a rock formation and is well worthy of your bucket list. This is a short adventure, and if you are coming from a distance, it can be bundled with the numerous other exciting outdoor destinations in the area including World’s End State Park, Rickett’s Glenn State Park, Loyalsock State Forest, and State Game Lands 13.
Also, be sure to check out our other adventures.
