Trough Creek State Park

James Creek, Pennsylvania

Established 1970

541 acres

Trough Creek State Park preserves 541 acres of scenic gorge where Great Trough Creek cuts through Terrace Mountain before flowing into Raystown Lake. The park is famous for natural wonders including Rainbow Falls and Balanced Rock, a massive boulder perched on rocks above the creek. With 12 miles of rugged hiking trails, the park offers challenging terrain through boulder fields, narrow ravines, and along dramatic rock ledges. A suspension bridge crosses Great Trough Creek, providing access to trails and unique photo opportunities. The park's remote setting and wild character attract adventurous hikers and nature enthusiasts.

Entrance Fee

Free

Visiting with Dogs

Leashed dogs welcome; assess fitness for rugged, steep trails and suspension bridge. Creek access—supervise near swift water. Campground permits dogs.

Visitor Tips & Reviews

What Visitors Say

Visitors love Balanced Rock, rugged gorge trails, suspension bridge, seasonal Rainbow Falls, and primitive camping; expect challenging terrain, bring preparation.

Tips from Visitors

Visit Rainbow Falls in early spring for best water flow - it's minimal or dry in summer/fall
Balanced Rock is worth the hike - bring a camera for this unique geological feature
Trails are steep, rocky, and rugged - wear sturdy hiking boots and allow extra time
The suspension bridge offers great photo opportunities crossing Great Trough Creek
A 2.5-mile loop combining multiple trails covers the main attractions
Camping is primitive and rustic - perfect for those seeking a wilderness experience

Amenities

RestroomsParkingPicnic AreasCamping

Nearby Attractions

Explore these attractions near Trough Creek State Park:

Raystown Lake
Pennsylvania's largest lake with 118 miles of shoreline, boating, and water sports
2 miles away
Lincoln Caverns
Underground limestone caverns with guided tours showing formations and fossils
12 miles away
Greenwood Furnace State Park
Historic iron furnace community with museum and lake recreation
25 miles away

Things to Do at Trough Creek State Park

HikingCampingRock ScramblingPhotographyWildlife ViewingFishing

Hiking Trails

Copperas and Balance Rock Loop

Moderate

Most popular route to Balanced Rock, a massive boulder perched dramatically on smaller rocks. Rocky terrain with moderate elevation gain. Can be extended with other trail connections.

1.4 mi

1 hour

344 ft gain

Moderate difficulty

Rainbow Falls Loop

Moderate

Combines Ledges Trail, Abbot Run Trail, and Rhododendron Trail to Rainbow Falls. Crosses suspension bridge. Steep sections and rock ledges. Best in spring for waterfall viewing.

2.5 mi

1.5-2 hours

400 ft gain

Moderate difficulty

Ledges Trail

Strenuous

Follows dramatic rock ledges with vertical cliffs and narrow passages. Steep, technical sections requiring careful footing. Spectacular but challenging.

1.2 mi

1 hour

350 ft gain

Strenuous difficulty

Directions

Trough Creek State Park is located in Huntingdon County off PA Route 994. From Huntingdon, take PA Route 26 south to Entriken, then follow PA Route 994 east along Raystown Lake for approximately 8 miles to the park entrance. From the south, take US Route 522 to Orbisonia, then follow PA Route 994 west for about 10 miles. The park is remote with limited cell service. GPS users should use: R.R. 1, Box 211, James Creek, PA 16657.