Hickory Run State Forest Boulder Field Loop

The Boulder Field at Hickory Run sits like an ancient alien landing pad—16,000 years of glacial chaos scattered across 16 acres of car-sized rocks. This forest road loop circles the geological wonder via Sand Spring Trail and Beach Lake Road, threading through dense Pocono hardwoods before opening onto the surreal moonscape. Hawk Falls Trail junction marks the halfway point where Hickory Run Creek cuts through hemlock gorges, creating ford challenges after spring snowmelt.

Moderate difficulty demands high-clearance stock 4WD for creek crossings and loose shale sections. Rocky stretches will test your spotter skills and tire placement. May through October offers the best window when creek levels drop and leaf-off provides visibility. No permits required for day runs, but overnight camping needs state park registration. This 18-mile loop delivers Pennsylvania’s most unique geological feature plus solid trail driving without the Moab crowds.