This 36 mile long hike offers the traveler a close-up look at the early oil industry in Pennsylvania. Camping is permitted along this interesting trek.

The Gerard Hiking Trail is over 36 miles long and encompasses the entire park. The main trail is marked with yellow paint blazes. For shorter day hikes, use the five connecting loops blazed in white. Parking areas are available at several access points. Scenic vistas, waterfalls and historic sites are prevalent along the trail. Two overnight hike-in shelter areas (Cow Run and Wolfkill Run) are located along the trail. Each area contains four tent sites, six adirondack-type shelters with fireplaces, restrooms and water supply. A fee and reservations are mandatory for use of these areas and overnight usage is limited to one night per shelter site. Fires are only permitted in camp stoves, fireplaces or designated locations and must be extinguished when unattended. Standing timber and shrubs must not be defaced. Camping is permitted in shelter areas only. Other special regulations pertain to these areas. Contact the park office for further information.

Directions: From Oil City, PA, Travel northeast on SR 1001 approximately 3 miles. Turn left on SR 1004 to reach the park office. There are several access locations in the park.

Elevation: 250 feet

Elevation Gain: Minimal

Distance: 36 miles

Difficulty: Moderate

Visitor Information

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