Mahoning Shadow trail
| Jefferson |
| DESCRIPTION: The Mahoning Shadow Trail follows an old railroad grade for 15.5-mile from the village of Fordham to its terminus south of Winslow. The first section of trail near Fordham passes through a wetland where Swamp Sparrow nest. Here, too, are the occasional Green Heron, nesting Black-billed Cuckoo, House Wren, Yellow Warbler, and Rose-breasted Grosbeak. Just before the first gate, check the field on the right for Yellow-breasted Chat. After passing the first gate listen for both Willow and Alder flycatchers on your right. The trail continues past a cow pasture on one side and mature forest on the other with nesting Wood Thrush and Scarlet Tanager. As the trail approaches then passes the next access at Sportsburg, Veery become more numerous and their ethereal songs can be heard on both sides of Mahoning Creek. An added non-avian bonus is a series of coke ovens which are visible along the section of trail between Sportsburg and Punxsutawney. The section of trail east of Sportsburg is excellent for passerines during spring migration. Where the stream is visible, watch for Wood Duck, Mallard, and Common Merganser. The most interesting section of trail, however, is the one from Cloe to Winslow. Just past Cloe where the hemlocks are densest, Winter Wren and Hermit Thrush may often be heard singing. Here, too, are Black-throated Green Warbler and Blue-headed Vireo. Nesting raptors include Sharp-shinned, Broad-winged, and Red-tailed hawks. Louisiana Waterthrush may be found on various sections of Mahoning Creek. Between Bair Road and Winslow Chestnut-sided and Hooded warblers, Ovenbird, Common Yellowthroat, and Indigo Bunting become fairly common. |
DIRECTIONS: To access the western half of the trail from Punxsutawney, take US 119 south to PA 210 and turn right on PA 210 and proceed 1.6 miles to a T intersection. Turn right onto Valier Drive and go 0.8 miles. Turn right onto Fordham Road. The large parking lot for the trail is just ahead on the right. The eastern sections of trail may be accessed by taking PA 36 south and then turning right onto either Bair Road or Winslow Road. |
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| Posted: 2009-10-24 00:00:00 Updated: |
