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Allegheny National Forest
Length: 9.6 miles
A 9.6 mile system of interconnecting trails offers excellent
opportunities to view wildlife, cross-country ski, mountain bike or go bass
fishing. Fifteen man-made ponds were constructed in the early 1960's in
partnership with the Pennsylvania Game Commission. Buzzard Swamp is within a
special management area that emphasizes wildlife management and recreational
opportunities.
Most of the trails are not marked with diamonds, so watch the
informational signs for directions. The skill level of the trails is easy
and the terrain is relatively flat. Some of the trails are located within
meadows with little protection from the sun and wind. Be prepared.
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Buzzard Swamp offers some of the best wildlife viewing opportunities on
the Forest. The area is an important link in the Atlantic flyway during the
waterfowl migration. During spring migration, 20-25 species of waterfowl can
be seen around the swamp. An observant hiker could see bear, deer, beaver,
coyote, snapping turtles, turkey, osprey, and bald eagles. Don't forget your
binoculars or spotting scope for great views of the native fauna.
All of the ponds have small and large-mouth bass, perch, catfish,
crappie, and bluegill. Boating is permitted on the ponds, but no motors are
allowed. The nearest pond is 1 mile from the trailhead, and since no
motorized vehicles are allowed within the swamp, boats must be carried.
The Songbird Sojourn Interpretive Trail is a 1.5 mile long self-guided
nature trail. The trail starts at the Forest Road 157 trailhead, and is
marked with off-white diamonds. Pamphlets are available at the trailhead and
the Marienville Ranger Station, 2 miles north of Marienville on State Route
66.
Directions:
Two trailheads provide access to the area. The southern trailhead is
located on Forest Road 157, 1 mile south of Marienville on Loleta Road. The
northern trailhead is located on Forest Road 376, 2.5 miles east of
Marienville on Lamonaville Road.
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