Clarion-Little Toby Creek Trail

This picturesque trail meanders along the Wild and Scenic Clarion River and Little Toby Creek through Elk and Jefferson counties between the charming small towns of Ridgway and Brockway. Tree cover provides shade in the summer months. As you follow the trail, you are treated to spectacular mountain scenery and river vistas, possible wildlife sightings (deer, wild turkeys, herons, eagles) and signs describing the area's history. You can even cross Little Toby Creek on a swinging bridge.

The trail uses the former Clearfield to Ridgway Rail Company corridor, built in 1886 to transport lumber and coal from mills to markets but which also provided popular passenger service between Ridgway and Falls Creek. After the line ceased operation in the 1960s, Penn Central bought the corridor and ran trains there until 1968. The rail-trail opened in 1992.

Beginning in Brockway, this serene 18-mile trail travels through some true Pennsylvania wilderness and wildlands. The landscape is reminiscent of scenes from a James Fenimore Cooper novel. As the trail travels north, it follows Little Toby Creek through lush forested hills and breathtaking views of the wild creek. A little beyond the halfway point you reach the confluence of the Little Toby Creek and the Clarion River. The trail follows the banks of the Clarion River until it reaches the endpoint in the town of Ridgway.

NOTE:A 1.8-mile section of trail runs adjacent to a live railroad line, so use caution in this spot. The trail is located near the Allegheny National Forest. During hunting season, wear bright clothing—a fluorescent orange vest is best—and remain on the trail at all times.

To reach the Brockway trailhead from I-80, take Route 219 North into Brockway. Turn left onto Main Street then right onto 7th Avenue. The trailhead is just past the community pool.

To reach the Ridgway trailhead from I-80, take State Route 219 North to State Route 948 (Main Street) in Ridgway. Follow 948 through town and turn left on Water Street, just before Love's Canoe and Keystone Hardware. Continue one block to the trailhead.