The best running trails in Montage Tract

Montage Tract offers a diverse selection of 15 running routes, catering to various fitness levels. You'll find everything from easy lakeside jogs to more challenging trails with significant elevation gain.

Yes, Montage Tract has options suitable for beginners and those seeking an easier run. The Scranton Road – Lake Scranton loop from Lake Scranton Parking is a popular, moderate 3.8-mile (6.1 km) trail that follows the shoreline of Lake Scranton, offering a relatively flat and scenic path perfect for a steady jog or recovery run. Additionally, Nay Aug Park features shorter, easier trails like the Davis Trail Loop and Watres Falls Trail, which are accessible and family-friendly.

Montage Tract is rich in natural beauty. You can expect dense forests, tranquil creek-side paths, and undulating hills. Many routes offer scenic vistas, deep gorges, and lush hemlock forests. Keep an eye out for captivating natural elements such as cascades, multiple waterfalls, and unique bedrock slides, particularly in areas like Montage Glen and Seven Tubs Recreation Area. Scenic overlooks like Miller Mountain and Pine Hill provide breathtaking views, especially during fall foliage season.

Absolutely! Montage Tract is known for its beautiful water features. The Montage Glen area, for instance, boasts a series of impressive cascades, waterfalls, and bedrock slides along a creek, offering a unique and rugged section for adventurous trail runners. The Seven Tubs Recreation Area also features waterfalls and natural potholes carved by Wheelbarrow Run, with loop trails that can be incorporated into a run for varied scenery.

Yes, there are family-friendly options. Nay Aug Park, located within the broader area, offers shorter, easier trails like the Davis Trail Loop (1.9 miles) and Watres Falls Trail (0.8 miles). These provide accessible and enjoyable options for a quick jog through diverse forests and along scenic creeks, making them ideal for families.

Many of the popular running routes in Montage Tract are loops. For example, the Scranton Road – Lake Scranton loop from Lake Scranton Parking is a well-known circular route. Another favorite is the Top of the World loop from VCA Dunmore Animal Hospital, which offers a challenging circular path through forested areas.

For runners seeking a challenge, Montage Tract offers several routes with significant elevation gain. The Top of the World loop from VCA Dunmore Animal Hospital is a difficult 6.3-mile (10.1 km) trail leading through forested areas with substantial elevation. Another demanding option is the Natural Wetland loop from Taylor, a difficult 22.5 km route.

Yes, parking is generally available at trailheads and popular access points. For instance, the popular Lake Scranton loop starts from the Lake Scranton Parking area, making it convenient for runners to access the trail.

While specific public transport access directly to all trailheads within the expansive Montage Tract might be limited, the area is located near Scranton, which has public transport options. You may need to combine public transport with a short taxi ride or walk to reach some of the more secluded trail starting points.

Montage Tract offers enjoyable running conditions throughout much of the year. Spring and fall are particularly beautiful, with pleasant temperatures and stunning foliage in autumn. Summer can be warm, so early morning or late afternoon runs are recommended. Winter running is possible, but conditions can vary, with snow and ice potentially affecting trail accessibility and requiring appropriate gear.

Montage Tract is located near Scranton, which offers a variety of cafes, restaurants, and other amenities. While there might not be facilities directly on every trail, you'll find options for refreshments and dining in the nearby towns and urban areas surrounding the Pinchot State Forest.

The running community highly rates the trails in Montage Tract, often praising the diverse landscapes and varied terrain. Runners particularly enjoy the scenic vistas, tranquil creek-side paths, and the dynamic environment created by the dense forests and undulating hills. The presence of natural features like waterfalls and cascades also adds to the unique appeal.