GENERAL INFORMATION:
The Summit Trails Revitalization Project will be continuing for the next several years. Be patient as we work to improve these trails and check back here for updates. For this upcoming winter season, you will find two newly-constructed roofed picnic table shelters, funded through a PA Wilds Grant. Please record your visit in the log book, eat a snack or lunch while there, and rehydrate as you are enjoying the snowy outdoors. The picnic table and fire ring at each shelter were supplied by the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR). Feel free to build a fire, but make sure it’s put out with water or snow before moving further along the trail. Pick up a XC ski map at the DCNR’s Susquehannock State Forest Office, 3150 East Second Street, Coudersport, PA 16915.
They are typically open weekdays 8 AM - 4 PM, and they will happily answer questions you may have before setting out to explore the Summit Trails.
Also, cross country skis and boots are available to borrow at this location. Call 814-274-3600 for more information.
TRAIL USAGE:
The Summit Trails may be new to you, but they have been in existence for many years. There are a variety of trail route options–loops, point-to-point, cut-throughs, connectors, and out & back–initially designed primarily for XC skiing enthusiasts. Over time, logging roads were added and the trail system expanded with some additional connecting trails to offer 25+ miles of exploration. Now, these trails are accessible during all four seasons and are open to outdoor enthusiasts for summer and winter activities, including:
Hiking
Mountain Biking (NOT on the Susquehannock Trail System (STS/Orange Blazes)
Bird Watching
Star Gazing
Cross Country Skiing (XC)
Snowshoeing
Horseback Riding (NOT on the Susquehannock Trail System (STS/Orange Blazes)
Hunting
TRAIL ROUTE TERMS:
Loop: Start and end at the same location and follow a single trail to form a loop. To Note: The Summit Trails suggested loops are non-traditional in this sense as they will involve more than one trail name. Maps will be forthcoming to address navigating the trails and loops.
Point-to-Point: Trails are generally longer in distance; start and end at a different location; requires two cars or a shuttle.
Cut-throughs: a short trail that allows you to move quickly and easily from one named trail to another named trail.
Connectors: Begins and ends in connection with another trail or trails but doesn’t terminate at a trailhead.
Out-and-Back: Start and end at a trailhead and follow a single trail to an endpoint or specific point of interest, then return along the same route.
FUTURE TRAIL GOALS:
Better Signage
Named Trails
Named Shelters—To Note: A county-wide “Name-the-Shelter”contest was held among Potter County Sixth Graders. Winners will be announced in November 2026 and signage for the newly-named shelters will be created and hung in 2027. All current and future shelters’ names are/will be based on historical facts, weather events, famous people, or geographical features in Potter County. Each shelter’s log-in book will contain the local history behind the shelter’s creative name. We encourage you to read about Potter County’s history as you enjoy the outdoor environment and take a break at the shelters.
Additional Shelters–There are now two shelters. Our Denton Hill Nordic Ski Patrol has plans to build up to seven shelters along these trails. We would encourage you to plan a family hike or winter trek to include stopping at one of these shelters to take-a-break and rehydrate or to simply enjoy nature’s environment and all it has to offer.
Updated Maps
Suggested Loops / Routes primarily for for XC Skiing, Hiking, & Mountain Biking
TRAIL NAVIGATION:
At this time, there are limited signs to help you navigate these trails. Take a compass with you or use a GPS App if you are new to these trails. We will be posting latitude and longitude readings on this site for each shelter, the DCNR Parking Lot, and several other key points on the various loops and trails.
LAT/LONG LOCATIONS: - Coming Soon
DCNR Parking Lot (Top of Denton Hill Summit)
Shelter #1 (Northside of Rt. 6)
Shelter #2 (Southside of Rt. 6)
Top of the Ski Area
Lyman Run Road–Duck Pond Area Access
Thompson Road Access
Denton Go/Denton Hill State Park Access
911 EMERGENCY INFO:
In the event you have a trail emergency, stay calm and Dial / Text 911 with your location. Please use the LAT / LONG numbers provided above or direct EMS personnel to your location based on your last known position. If the Denton Hill Ski Patrol is available, then they will respond to your location until EMS and/or DCNR Rangers can get to you.
You may/may not have cell service on these trails, so be aware of recognizable landmarks to help EMS Responders locate you.
Additional Emergency Contact Information:
UPMC Charles Cole Memorial Hospital
814-274-9300
1001 East Second Street Coudersport, PA 16915
PA State Police
Denton Hill Barracks (Rt. 6 / Denton Hill Summit)
814-274-8690
3084 East Second Street Coudersport, PA 16915
THE 10 ESSENTIALS:
The "Ten Essentials" are the standard safety and survival items every outdoor enthusiast should carry. Mishaps and “emergencies” occur when we least expect them, sometimes only a mile or two from the parking lot. The list, originally established in the 1930s, was created because adventurers should always be prepared for an emergency situation.
Navigation: Topographical map, standard compass, GPS device, or a smartphone with offline maps and a power bank (keep analog backups handy).
Headlamp / Illumination: A hands-free headlamp or flashlight plus extra batteries or a charging cord. We don’t plan on getting lost or injured during a day hike, but this way you’re prepared if it happens to you.
Sun & Insect Protection: Sunglasses with UV protection, broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30+), and sun-protective clothing or a hat. Also, spray your clothing and gear ahead of time with Permethrin to discourage ticks and consider additional repellent that’s safe for your skin to ward off mosquitoes and other pests.
First-Aid Kit: A compact, waterproof kit with blister care (moleskin, tape), antiseptic wipes, adhesive bandages, gauze, and any personal medications.
Knife & Repair Kit: A multi-tool, pocket knife, duct tape, cordage (like paracord), and zip ties for gear fixes.
Fire: Waterproof matches, a lighter, and a reliable fire starter or tinder to signal for help or stay warm. Consider carrying a compact handsaw as well.
Shelter: An emergency space blanket, Mylar bivy, ultralight tarp, sleeping bag, heavy-duty trash bag or tent is important for an unplanned night or survival situation. Be able to protect yourself from changing weather conditions and exposure to the elements in an emergency situation.
Extra Food: High-calorie, non-perishable snacks (like nuts, energy bars, or dried fruit) enough to last an extra day in case of unexpected delays.
Extra Water: Adequate hydration plus water treatment tools (such as a filter, purifier, or iodine tablets). Also, consider packing packets of electrolyte powder to add to your water when your activity results in prolonged sweating. Dehydration may lead to a medical emergency. Be prepared!
Extra Clothing: Moisture-wicking layers, an extra pair of socks, warm hat/gloves, and a waterproof or windproof rain shell (avoid cotton). These items will keep you prepared for changing weather conditions or an unplanned night in the woods.