Bear Valley Natural Area (Bear Valley)
| Franklin |
| DESCRIPTION: Located in Buchanan State Forest, this is a heavily wooded mixed forest of Oak, Ash, Poplar, Maple, Hemlock, Tamarack, and more. The road through the valley is long and active. You finally arrive at the Bear Valley Picnic Area 11 miles later. You'll find a shaded, tall conifer hollow with a fast flowing creek running through. Very isolated, but charming. After going past the tree line on Bear Valley Road you can stop along the way and spot Ovenbird, Scarlet Tanager, Red-eyed Vireo, Pileated and Red-headed woodpecker, Wild Turkey, and Ruffed Grouse. When you get to the picnic area you will find Black-throated Green and Black-throated Blue warblers, Blue-headed Vireo, Broad-winged Hawk, Barred Owl, Louisiana and Northern waterthrush, Hooded Warbler, occasional Canada Warbler, Blackburnian Warbler, Baltimore Oriole, Eastern Phoebe, Eastern Wood-Pewee, Acadian, Willow, Least, and Great-crested flycatchers, and so many more birds. There are many trails along the way there and at the picnic area. Go out and enjoy. Watch out for bear and porcupine! |
DIRECTIONS: From Chambersburg follow US 30 west to Fort Loudon. As you approach Fort Loudon (about 11 miles), there is a sign for Main Street which bears off to the right. Bear right on Main Street and go 0.7 mile and turn right on Bear Valley Road. Go about 10 miles and you will come to a fork with Green Spring Road (on the right). Continue straight for 1 mile and the picnic area will be on the right. There are grills and bathrooms. Usually no people. Secluded. |
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| Posted: 2010-04-26 00:00:00 Updated: |
