Nestled within the heart of Pennsylvania’s lush Loyalsock Forest are some of the state’s most tranquil and secluded towns.
These hidden gems offer a retreat into nature, away from the hustle and bustle of city life. From charming lakeside villages to forgotten logging towns, each locale provides unique attractions and a serene atmosphere perfect for those seeking peace and solitude.
Whether you’re an avid hiker, history enthusiast, or simply in need of a quiet getaway, exploring these towns will unveil the untouched beauty and rich heritage of the region. Join us as we count down ten of the most secluded towns in and around Loyalsock Forest, each waiting to share its own slice of tranquility.
10. Eagles Mere
Eagles Mere is a quaint resort town with a population of around 120 permanent residents, though it welcomes many more visitors during the summer months.
This charming village is centered around the pristine Eagles Mere Lake, where you can enjoy swimming, sailing, and fishing in crystal-clear waters. The town boasts historic architecture, including well-preserved Victorian homes and the Eagles Mere Inn, providing a glimpse into its storied past. One of the town’s hidden gems is the Eagles Mere Museum, showcasing local history and artifacts.
Tourism is the main industry, with small boutiques, art galleries, and eateries catering to visitors seeking a peaceful retreat. Eagles Mere’s secluded nature is enhanced by its elevation atop the Allegheny Plateau and its surrounding dense forests, offering a serene and quiet atmosphere year-round.
Where is Eagles Mere?
Located in Sullivan County, Eagles Mere sits within the Loyalsock State Forest’s bounds, approximately 50 miles northeast of Williamsport. The town’s remoteness is accentuated by the winding country roads that lead to it, surrounded by thick woodlands and rolling hills.
This seclusion means there are no major highways or bustling cities nearby, allowing for uninterrupted tranquility. To reach Eagles Mere, travelers often take PA Route 42, which offers a scenic drive through the forest, setting the tone for a relaxing visit in this hidden mountain oasis.
9. Trout Run
Trout Run is a peaceful community with an approximate population of 240 residents, making it a perfect spot for those seeking solace amidst nature.
Known for its excellent fishing opportunities, the town is a haven for anglers looking to catch trout in the area’s clear streams and rivers. Outdoor activities abound, including hiking the nearby section of the Loyalsock Trail and exploring the surrounding forests teeming with wildlife.
The primary industries here are small-scale farming and outdoor recreation services supporting hunting and fishing. The town’s seclusion is due to its location at the edge of Loyalsock Forest, enveloped by vast expanses of unspoiled nature that keep it tucked away from the bustle of larger towns.
Where is Trout Run?
Nestled in Lycoming County, Trout Run lies along PA Route 14, about 15 miles north of Williamsport. Its position near the southern fringe of Loyalsock State Forest provides easy access to wilderness areas while maintaining a barrier from urban development.
The town is secluded by the surrounding mountains and dense forests, which also contribute to limited cell service and a slower pace of life. Visitors can reach Trout Run by taking a scenic drive along US Route 15 and exiting onto the rural roads that weave through the countryside, offering glimpses of Pennsylvania’s rustic charm.
8. Proctor
Proctor is a sparsely populated area with less than 100 residents, offering a pristine environment for those looking to immerse themselves in nature.
The community is a gateway to outdoor adventures like hiking, bird watching, and exploring the Loyalsock Creek’s waterways. One of Proctor’s hidden treasures is the nearby Rock Run, celebrated for its clear waters and picturesque swimming holes.
The local economy is modest, with forestry and small-scale agriculture being the primary activities. Proctor’s remote location and low population density contribute to its secluded atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for solitude seekers.
Where is Proctor?
Situated in Lycoming County, Proctor lies along Route 87, nestled between the Loyalsock State Forest and the creek that shares its name. The town’s seclusion is heightened by the surrounding rugged terrain and limited infrastructure, with few roads leading in and out.
Access to Proctor involves navigating winding, tree-lined routes that underscore the feeling of moving away from the hectic pace of modern life. Travelers can reach Proctor by following PA Route 87 north from Montoursville, enjoying the tranquil scenery as they approach this hidden haven.
7. Masten
Masten, once a thriving logging town, is now an abandoned ghost town enveloped by the wilderness of Loyalsock State Forest.
Though uninhabited, it offers a unique glimpse into Pennsylvania’s logging history and a rare opportunity to explore overgrown remnants of the past. Adventurous visitors can hike or bike the Old Loggers Path, a 27-mile loop trail that starts and ends in Masten, showcasing beautiful vistas, streams, and remnants of old railroads and structures.
The absence of residents and industries makes Masten exceptionally secluded, with the sounds of nature replacing the once-bustling activity of the lumber era.
Where is Masten?
Located deep within Loyalsock State Forest in Lycoming County, Masten is off the beaten path and requires some effort to reach. The town is accessed via narrow, unpaved forest roads that can be challenging to navigate, especially in adverse weather conditions.
Its isolation is profound, surrounded by miles of dense forest without nearby towns or major roads. To get to Masten, travelers typically head towards the village of Ralston on PA Route 14, then venture east into the forest, fully immersing themselves in the remote wilderness experience.
6. Estella
Estella is a peaceful area with a small population, offering expansive natural scenery perfect for those looking to reconnect with the great outdoors. The community is known for its proximity to Worlds End State Park, where visitors can enjoy hiking, camping, and breathtaking overlooks like the High Knob Vista.
Estella’s industries are minimal, with a focus on agriculture and small businesses that serve locals and tourists alike. The town’s seclusion is a result of its location amidst sprawling forests and valleys, providing a quiet retreat away from crowded tourist destinations.
Where is Estella?
Found in Sullivan County, Estella is nestled along PA Route 154, south of Forksville and near the Loyalsock Creek. Its secluded nature is enhanced by surrounding state forest lands and limited residential development.
The area is characterized by winding roads that pass through dense woodlands and open fields, contributing to the sense of isolation. Visitors can reach Estella by following PA Route 154 from the south, enjoying scenic views of the countryside as they approach this tranquil spot.
5. Ralston
Ralston is a small town with an approximate population of 100 residents, situated near the edge of Loyalsock Forest. The town is surrounded by mountainous landscapes, making it a prime location for hiking, hunting, and exploring nature trails.
One of the attractions is the proximity to Rock Run, known for its crystal-clear waters and waterfalls. The main industries in Ralston include forestry and support services for outdoor recreation. Its secluded nature comes from being nestled in a valley, with the mountains creating a natural barrier to the outside world.
Where is Ralston?
Located in Lycoming County along PA Route 14, Ralston sits north of Williamsport and is bordered by forested mountains on all sides. The town’s remoteness is due to its position away from major cities and highways, providing a quiet environment free from heavy traffic and noise.
Access to Ralston involves driving through scenic mountain passes, which can be both beautiful and challenging, especially during winter months. Travelers heading to Ralston can take PA Route 14 north from Williamsport, winding through picturesque landscapes on their way to this secluded community.
4. Barbours
Barbours is a hidden community with a small population nestled along the Loyalsock Creek. The area is ideal for fishing, kayaking, and nature walks, offering a peaceful experience amid lush greenery.
A lesser-known spot is the Slabtown Bridge, a charming historical structure near the town. Barbours doesn’t have significant industries, contributing to its quiet and undisturbed atmosphere. The seclusion of Barbours is a product of its location within the forest and the limited number of residences and amenities, making it a perfect escape for solitude.
Where is Barbours?
Barbours is situated in Lycoming County off PA Route 87, northeast of Montoursville. The town is enveloped by Loyalsock State Forest, with the creek running alongside it, enhancing its secluded setting.
The area’s remoteness is emphasized by the winding roads and the canopy of trees that often arch over the pathways. To reach Barbours, visitors travel along PA Route 87, then venture onto local roads that lead deeper into the forest, fully immersing themselves in nature before arriving at this tranquil locale.
3. Shunk
Shunk is a remote village with an estimated population of under 50 residents, making it one of the most secluded spots on our list. Surrounded by rolling hills and dense forests, it’s an ideal destination for nature lovers seeking tranquility and solitude.
Outdoor activities include hiking the Tamarack Trail and exploring the vast stretches of woodland that teem with wildlife. The local economy is minimal, with small farms and family-owned businesses forming the backbone of the community. Shunk’s isolation is due to its location amidst expansive state forest lands and the minimal development in the area.
Where is Shunk?
Located in Sullivan County, Shunk lies along PA Route 154, north of Estella. The town is deeply embedded within Loyalsock State Forest, contributing to its remote and peaceful environment.
Limited infrastructure and the absence of major roads nearby enhance its seclusion. Visitors often enjoy the journey to Shunk as much as the destination, traveling along rural routes that offer stunning views of Pennsylvania’s untouched wilderness. To get there, one can follow PA Route 154 through the forested landscapes that lead directly into this quiet village.
2. Hillsgrove
Hillsgrove is a secluded town with approximately 200 residents, enveloped by the natural beauty of Loyalsock State Forest. The town offers serene landscapes, including access to the Loyalsock Creek for fishing and swimming.
A notable attraction is the historic Hillsgrove Covered Bridge, a picturesque spot perfect for photography enthusiasts. Small-scale forestry and tourism are the primary industries, with local businesses catering to outdoor adventurers. Hillsgrove’s seclusion stems from its dense surrounding forests and minimal development, providing an authentic escape into nature.
Where is Hillsgrove?
Situated in Sullivan County along PA Route 87, Hillsgrove is nestled deep within the Loyalsock State Forest. The town’s remote location is accentuated by the winding roads and forested terrain that shield it from the outside world.
Accessing Hillsgrove typically involves a scenic drive through miles of woodland, often with limited cell service, reinforcing its disconnected charm. Travelers can reach Hillsgrove by following PA Route 87 north from areas like Williamsport, immersing themselves in the scenic beauty leading up to this hidden retreat.
1. Forksville
Forksville is a tiny hamlet with a population of around 145 residents, known for its rustic charm and historic significance.
The town is famous for the Forksville Covered Bridge, a 19th-century wooden structure offering picturesque views and photo opportunities. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy proximity to Worlds End State Park, which provides hiking trails, camping sites, and breathtaking overlooks. The Forksville General Store and Restaurant, a local institution, serves as a hub for the community and visitors alike.
The primary industries are tourism and small businesses that support the local economy. Forksville’s seclusion is enhanced by its location along the Loyalsock Creek and the dense woodlands that surround it, creating a peaceful and idyllic setting.
Where is Forksville?
Located in Sullivan County at the junction of PA Routes 154 and 87, Forksville sits at the heart of Loyalsock State Forest. The town’s secluded nature is a result of the enveloping forests and the relative distance from major urban centers.
The area is characterized by narrow, winding roads that traverse through verdant landscapes and over gentle hills. To reach Forksville, visitors typically travel along PA Route 87 or PA Route 154, enjoying the serene countryside that defines the journey to this charming and secluded destination.
Have you ever felt like Proctor and Masten are just too quiet? They definitely give a peek into the past, but honestly, there are so many other hidden towns nearby that are bursting with life and beautiful scenery. It’s worth exploring beyond those two to find something vibrant!
I get that vibe too. it’s easy to feel like those places might be a bit too peaceful at times, almost like they’re holding their breath. Any tips on exploring safely?
I get that you find those places tranquil, but it’s a bit naive to think they’re just serene. Sometimes, it feels like you’re overlooking the stories hidden in the silence. There’s a richness in the history and nature that deserves more than just a passing thought.
Sometimes, those hidden gems can have such a serene vibe that it’s almost like time stands still. Have you ever tried visiting during the fall? The colors are breathtaking, and it feels like you’re walking through a painting. Isn’t that the kind of magic we all crave?
Have you ever explored the hidden gems of Loyalsock Forest, like Masten and Estella? They’re perfect for outdoor lovers seeking adventure and tranquility! Plus, don’t forget about Hillsgrove and Forksville. The Loyalsock Creek is a must-see for fishing and kayaking. It really adds to the peaceful vibe of the area!
Cabin near Forksville family and friends enjoying spring summer and fall. Hiking hunting animal watching, picnicking, relaxing, getting away place. Sitting around fire pit watching deer, birds, bears, and all of nature. Isolated no traffic, no noice, no visitors.
Eagle Mere is a favorite Destination of Mine beautiful scenic wilderness and a place where you can actually see the stars st night without the light pollution and distraction of populated areas. Unfortunately the lake is privately owned and Only member’s to an exclusive club have access to it. The local townspeople Cannot take advantage of this beautiful area where they live ! It’s Only intended to serve the Rich and exclusive club member’s that own it such a Shame and A Crime that the full time residents cannot enjoy a lake in their own back yards!!