Hidden in the Forest: A Hike to Yost Run Falls

Tucked away in the rugged terrain of Sproul State Forest, Yost Run Falls offers hikers a serene escape into Pennsylvania’s wilderness. This hidden gem, accessible via the Chuck Keiper Trail, provides a moderate hike through dense forests and along a stream. It showcases the natural beauty of one of the state’s most secluded areas. If you’re visiting Happy Valley, then try to make time for this short but lovely hike. The journey to get there is well worth your time as well!

The highlight of the hike is, of course, Yost Run Falls, a picturesque waterfall that cascades gracefully over a series of rock ledges. Surrounded by dense forest, the falls offer a peaceful spot to rest and take in the natural beauty. The trail’s relative seclusion means that hikers often have this tranquil spot to themselves, providing a rare opportunity for solitude in nature. As a bonus, there’s a second waterfalls, just a little further along the trail.

Looking for more outdoor adventure near Happy Valley? Check out Black Moshannon State Park and the Scenic Overlook Driving Tour in Bald Eagle State Forest and Kinzua Bridge State Park.

Two Hikes to Yost Run Falls

There are two hikes to Yost Run Falls: a 7-mile round trip and a 2.5-mile there-and-back hike.

Full disclosure — I’ve only hiked the shorter route to Yost Run Falls. The longer hike to Yost Run Falls begins at the intersection of Route 144 and Yost Run Road, where a parking area marks the trailhead. From here, the trail follows the Chuck Keiper Trail for approximately 3.5 miles, making it a 7-mile round trip for those seeking to visit the falls and return.

The shorter hike carries you from a parking area off of Bloom Draft Trail, a gravel road, off of Rt 144. From the parking area, you follow an old logging road into the forest. Along the way, we walked through a landscape rich with hemlocks, hardwoods and rhododendrons, creating a lush green canopy in the warmer months and a vibrant display of fall colors later in the year. At about the half mile mark, we encountered Camp Bloom and shortly afterward, Camp Brown. The old logging road ends at the second camp. Then the trail significantly narrows and veers to the right, running along Yost Run. From there it was a short walk to the falls themselves.

Even moderate hikes require proper hiking boots and preparedness. Yost Run Falls is no different. The rocky terrain and occasional muddy sections, particularly after rain, means having proper foot wear is a must. I would have found having a walking stick helpful. The trail is not heavily trafficked, so carrying a map or GPS device is advisable for navigation. If it’s stocked, grab a trail map from the info board at the back of the parking area — there were none when we visited, however.

Extend Your Adventure

Of course, we went an extra 300 yards, extending our hike down to another waterfalls just a few hundred yards further down, Kyler Fork Falls. Because of the summer drought, it wasn’t very impressive.

Extend your adventure by exploring the Chuck Keiper Trail, which offers a 53-mile loop through some of the most remote areas of Sproul State Forest. Backcountry camping is permitted, allowing for an immersive wilderness experience. Regardless of how far and where you hike, please always practice Leave No Trace principles to help preserve the environment.

Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or simply looking for a peaceful day trip, Yost Run Falls provides a rewarding journey through the wilds of Pennsylvania, offering both natural beauty and a sense of adventure.

Know Before You Go

As you approach the parking area from either the north or south along Route 144 you’ll see the large Chuck Keiper Trail sign. Rt 144 is a beautiful drive through Sproul State Forest. Take advantage of the scenery by stopping at the various pull-overs and overlooks along your way there! This hike is about 50 minutes away from State College, PA, and about 3.5 hours from Baltimore and Washington DC.