Back Mountain Trail

The trail primarily follows a former rail line, so it features a generally hard-packed stone-dust and gravel surface. While much of it is gently graded, there's a slight uphill climb when traveling from Luzerne towards Shavertown. You might encounter occasional railroad ties, some washouts, and a section near Carverton Road includes stairs with a bike rail. Some parts also include on-road sections through residential areas. The Judith & David Rimple Loop offers a mix of crushed stone and boardwalks.

Yes, many sections are quite accessible. The flatter northern parts are particularly stroller-friendly. For an easy experience, the Harris Hill Trailhead offers flat, crushed gravel surfaces with no significant elevation changes. The detached Judith & David Rimple Loop is also considered easy with minimal elevation. Benches are regularly placed along the trail for rest stops.

You'll experience diverse and picturesque scenery, including shaded woodlands with hemlock and hardwood forests. Toby Creek meanders alongside much of the trail, providing tranquil views and the sound of water, including a small waterfall prominent in the initial miles from Luzerne. The trail also opens up to meadows with wildflowers and offers far-reaching views above the highway in some sections.

The trail offers beauty year-round. Spring and summer bring wildflowers to the meadows, while fall showcases vibrant foliage in the woodlands. Birdwatching is popular, with sightings of scarlet tanagers, turkeys, and hawks, making any season good for wildlife enthusiasts.

Yes, the trail is dog-friendly, making it a great option for walking with your canine companion. Please ensure your dog is leashed and you clean up after them.

No, there are no permits or entrance fees required to access and enjoy the Back Mountain Trail. It serves as a community greenway, open to the public.

While specific parking locations aren't detailed, the trail is accessible at various points. The Harris Hill Trailhead is mentioned as a good starting point for an easier experience, implying parking availability there. As a community greenway, you'll likely find parking at designated trailheads or access points along its length.

The trail follows a former rail line with a rich history. It was originally built in the 1880s by Albert Lewis to transport ice and later expanded by the Lehigh Valley Railroad for lumber, leather goods, and anthracite coal. This railway heritage is a key part of the trail's character.

Yes, the route also passes through sections of the Back Mountain Rail Trail.

The trail is a great spot for wildlife observation. Birdwatching is popular, with sightings of scarlet tanagers, turkeys, and hawks. Toby Creek, which runs alongside the trail, is also home to trout.

For a particularly accessible and easier experience, consider starting at the Harris Hill Trailhead. This section offers flat, crushed gravel surfaces with no significant elevation changes, making it ideal for walkers, joggers, and families with strollers.