Bear Creek Loop

Dogs Leashed

Features Fall Colors · River/Creek · Spring

This is a great hike taking you on the famous North-South Trail (South Section). While it's a great hike, it's not too challenging for a beginning hiker.

Beginning at the North-South Trail (South Section), head into the woods. This first section is nicely wooded and fairly well travelled. About 2 miles in, look for the split in the trail and veer left. If you continue on you'll probably not notice for miles, as there is not a whole lot to see besides trees, trees, and more trees. If you made the right choice, you'll enter into a large open field about 3 miles in, then cross FS 230. This field isn't marked, so just generally stay in the middle of it and you'll come out at the right spot.

After you cross FS 230, keep an eye out on the far side of the road and you'll pick up the trail again where there are two markers posted (both small plastic signs). Descending into the forest, you'll see some discarded farm equipment—this is your next marker and the point you look for the blazes to pick up again.

The next junction is Telegraph Trail, keep left (this intersection is not well marked, but there are the plastic signs that at least let you know you have come to a decision point). Continue on Telegraph Trail along the creek, eventually crossing it in two points. This section of the trail is by far the "wildest" of the loop (everything is overgrown), but it is a fantastic section due to the creek crossings, old farmstead, and obnoxiously loud birds. When your legs start warming up from the climb out of the creek bottom, you know you are almost home! Plateau out, cross the field next to the trace, and return to your car!

Maple, oak, and cherry can occasionally be seen here. Enjoy some ferns, plenty of honeysuckle, and the closer you get to the creeks, birds! Evidence of deer, raccoon, squirrels, field mice, and the occasional groundhog make their appearance as well.