Bennett Branch Forest
Bennett Branch Forest is a 1,500-acre remote forested wilderness open to the public for hiking, mountain biking, wildlife viewing, fishing and much more! Located in Elk and Clearfield counties, this property has steep ravines and trails where nature and outdoor enthusiasts can explore and enjoy the natural beauty of this forest situated within the headwaters of the Susquehanna River. The property protects wildlife habitat and water quality of many small streams including Cherry Run, a tributary of the Bennett Branch Sinnemahoning Creek.
WPC continues to improve Bennett Branch Forest with projects to improve water quality and restore the land. Sustainable forestry practices are used to manage the forest. Areas formerly mined for coal have been planted with a mix of hardwood trees, including a strain of potentially blight-resistant American chestnut. Recently, a system of ponds were constructed to treat abandoned mine drainage (AMD). large areas of mine spoils are being removed and a highwall from an abandoned strip mine will be reclaimed.
Location
- Jay Township, Elk County
- Huston Township, Clearfield County
Dates Acquired
2008 - 2012
Size
Approximately 1,465 acres
Notable features
Oak/northern hardwood forest, hemlock groves, Cherry Run (a tributary of Bennett Branch Sinnemahoning Creek)
Parking
Parking Available
Recreational Activities
- Birding
- Camping
- Fishing
- Hiking (Designated Trail)
- Hiking (Off-Trail)
- Hunting
- Mountain Biking
- Paddling
- Wildlife Watching
Recreational Activities
Management Activities
Sustainable timber harvest, forest restoration (including the introduction of experimental American chestnut) on reclaimed strip mine, and construction of a system to treat abandoned mine drainage (AMD).
Hiking and Biking
Visitors can hike this remote property on a newly designed 3.6-mile round-trip trail. From the parking area off 5-Points Rd. (Hollywood Rd.), a hiking and biking trail leads into the forest. The first half mile of the trail is extremely steep. Sturdy footwear is recommended.
Trail Blazes
The painted trail blazes follow a standard protocol for marking hiking trails in North America. Learn what each trail blaze means.
Observing Plants and Wildlife
The property hosts a mixed northern hardwood forest that provides extensive wildlife habitat. In addition to forest-dwelling species, elk are sometimes seen roaming the property.
Camping
Backcountry camping is permitted throughout the forest, though campfires are not allowed.
Hunting
Hunting is permitted during hunting season, except on Sundays. Trapping is prohibited. All visitors should exercise caution and wear blaze orange during hunting season.
Fishing and Paddling
Near the village of Force, a public access site is available for fishing and paddling in the Bennett Branch of Sinnemahoning Creek. This site was installed as part of WPC’s Canoe Access Development Fund.
Plan Your Visit
Directions
From I-80 in DuBois, exit at Rt. 255N. Travel north to the village of Hollywood. Turn left onto 5-Points Rd. (Hollywood Rd.), and travel to the first gated road on the right.
Visitor Tips
With nearly 1,500 acres of forest and 3.6 miles of trail to explore, Bennett Branch Forest promises to offer trail-goers and nature lovers an adventure! The trail is purposely managed to have minimal impact on the surrounding landscape. Please be advised that the first half mile of the trail is extremely steep and could be challenging for young children and those with limited mobility.
This forest is free to the public for all to enjoy. Prepare for your outdoor adventure by familiarizing yourself with the preserve, bringing along a map or GPS unit, wearing sturdy boots or shoes and having plenty of water. We also recommend downloading the following files to your device prior to visiting, as cell phone reception is not always available in this area.
Visitor Guidelines
When visiting Bennett Branch Forest, please remember:
- Motorized vehicles are prohibited.
- Bicycles are permitted on designated trails only.
- Trapping is prohibited.
- All hunting is prohibited on Sundays.
- Dumping/littering is prohibited.
- Dogs must be on a leash.
- Collecting (animals, plants, rocks, etc.) without permission is prohibited.
- Certain areas may be off-limits during timber harvest activities
- Review the Guidelines for Public Use of WPC Properties document prior to your visit.
Please exercise caution and avoid those areas under reclamation as part of an abandoned mine remediation project occurring on the eastern side of the property. Also, be aware that logging trucks may occasionally use the trail off 5-Points Rd. during sustainable timber harvest operations. Contact us at 412-288-2777 or info@paconserve.org for information on current conditions prior to your visit.