Observation Tower Loop

Dogs Leashed

Features Birding · Fall Colors · Views · Wildflowers

For visitors short on time or looking for a quick but rewarding hike, this loop has easy access from the parking area and heads north along the ridge to the Observation Tower before looping back along Trail 2. Because the trails Clarence Schock Park can be traveled in either direction, this loop can be done in reverse

From the Visitor's Center parking area off Pinch Road, head north on a couple of connector sections to join the Fire Road. Follow the Fire Road as it heads up the ridge toward the intersection with Trail 4 and Trail 1. Continue straight onto Trail 1 toward the clearing where the cylindrical tower will become visible.

At the south side of the clearing, Trail 1 ends at Trail 8, which provides a small loop around the tower. After heading to the tower, continue north to find Trail 2, which bends to the left (west) to return south along the contours just below the ridge. Finally, retrace your steps along the Fire Road to the starting point and Visitor's Center parking area.