Minister Creek Hiking Trail
This 10.8 kilometer (6.6 mile) trail begins at the Minister Creek Campground and forms a loop through the Minister Creek Undeveloped Area north of SR 666.
The trail is marked with gray diamonds. Watch the informational signs...this trail offers challenges to a wide range of skill levels as it climbs to the plateau within the Minister Creek Undeveloped Area. The Minister Creek Trail joins the North Country National Scenic Trail (marked with blue diamonds) along the most northerly segment. The North Country National Scenic Trail then continues and the Minister Creek Trail turns south back towards the campground.
Fishing for small native brook trout can be done in Minister Creek. Enjoy the wildlife viewing as you hike. The vegetation found in the Minister Creek Area supports wildlife typically associated with older trees and decaying vegetation.
Part of the Minister Creek Trail is located on old railroad grades used in early logging efforts. Camp overnight as you enjoy the Minister Creek Trail or make a leisurely day trip through the Minister Creek Undeveloped Area.
Active Alerts
Specific Trail Information
Trail Number
Trail Type
General Information
January - December
Drinking Water available at trailhead
As a visitor to the National Forest, you are asked to follow certain rules designed to protect the Forest, natural resources and to provide for public safety of visitors. These rules are available to you on-line or at any office of the Allegheny National Forest. Please take time to read and understand them. General Topic orders apply across the Forest.
Getting There
Directions
From Sheffield
- Travel southeast on S. Main St.
- Turn right onto Austin Hill Road.
- Travel on Austin Hill Road for 7.1 miles..
- Turn left onto Minister Road.
- Travel 3.6 miles on Minister Road.
- Minister Road turns into State Route 1001.
- Continue on State Route 1001 for .5 miles.
- Turn right onto PA-666 W.
- The site is located on the right.
Alternative Route from Sheffield
- Follow PA-666 for 12.6 miles.
- The site is located on the right.
Additional Information
Operated By
USDA Forest Service
Recreation Opportunities
Day Hikes Info
This trail offers challenges to a wide range of skill levels as it climbs to the plateau within the Minister Creek Undeveloped Area. The Minister Creek Trail joins the North Country National Scenic Trail along the most northerly segment.
The North Country National Scenic Trail then continues east, and the Minister Creek Trail turns south back towards the campground.
Fishing for small native brookies can be done in Minister Creek. Enjoy the wildlife viewing as you hike.
The vegetation found in the Minister Creek Undeveloped Area supports wildlife typically associated with older trees and decaying vegetation.
A well-used dispersed recreation campsite called Triple Forks Camp, is located where the two tributaries of Minister Creek join to become one stream. Part of the Minister Creek Trail is located on old railroad grades used in early logging efforts.
Backpacking Info
This trail offers challenges to a wide range of skill levels as it climbs to the plateau within the Minister Creek Undeveloped Area. The Minister Creek Trail joins the North Country National Scenic Trail along the most northerly segment. The North Country National Scenic Trail then continues east, and the Minister Creek Trail turns south back towards the campground.
Fishing - River/Stream Info
Trail parallels Minister Creek.
For information on fishing regulations and season visit the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission website.