Panther Rocks in Moshannon State Forest of Clearfield County is an easily accessible formation of massive boulders with passages and hideouts to explore.
Panther rocks is a small but impressive boulder city in Moshannon State Forest, Clearfield County. We parked in the lot off of Four Mile Road, at 41.14327, -78.49012. A sign to Panther Rocks marks the easy, level trail. The formation is only a few hundred feet from the trailhead and is visible from the road when the trees are defoliated.
Several massive rectangular boulders adorned with ferns and moss comprise the boulder city. Multiple paths among the rocks forming the “streets” of the city.
The rectangular shape of the rocks creates an otherworldly appearance among the verdant rhododendron. We passed through the gap between the two nearest boulders. Although the side of the boulders facing the direction of the trailhead is sheer, paths on the back side easily wind up an incline to the top of the rocks.
The tops of the formation were relatively level, with some fissures and shallow potholes. Overgrown paths lead through scrub and weeds. From the boulder edge, we could survey the forest below, although there were no scenic vistas on account of the trees. We descended the path from the top of the rocks to one of the city “streets” and discovered a passage partially hidden by a beautiful rhododendron stand.
The narrow crevasse curves through the formation. This is the same gap we hopped over when exploring the top of the boulders.
We traveled the paths behind the boulders and looped back around to the front (the side facing Four Mile Road). On the way, we discovered this semi-cave shelter fashioned from an overhang. The ceiling was nearly high enough for us to stand upright.
The pock-marked giants look as if they were constructed by stacking layers of boulders.
Panther Rocks is impressive in height and form, and small in terms of expansiveness. It has the advantage of being easily accessible, just a minute’s walk from the trailhead. It is only a ten minute drive from Exit 111 of Route 80. Our favorite part was finding the surprise passageway and shelter. Although there are paths on top of the rocks, they are brushy. It was not a problem during our winter visit, but I imagine they are overgrown in the summer. It is a perfect spot to explore with the family.
Be sure to check out our other adventures.
