I have a ten-year-old son who is my pride and joy. I refer to him on this page quite often. Jensen is a great looking kid who plays several sports. He loves the outdoors and is gearing up for the fifth grade. Jensen is so dang spoiled and has thousands of toys. J Bird is at a fun age and the stuff he says or does — you just can’t make it up. My lovely bride is also grand, and we make one heck of a team. But she doesn’t like the spotlight, so I always try to refrain from using her name.

North Central Pennsylvania is home to many treasures. We are extremely blessed to live in an area with such natural beauty. My family and I take full advantage as we do our best to “commune” as often as we can. I love to fish, and Jensen has tagged along many times this summer. Hiking is another passion, and one of his favorite places to go is a beautiful spot in neighboring Sullivan County.

Worlds End is a 780-acre Pennsylvania state park in the Loyalsock Creek valley on PA Route 154. The park is a few minutes southeast of Forksville and about an hour north of Williamsport. Completely surrounded by the Loyalsock State Forest, Worlds End offers many recreational opportunities within its borders. The rugged natural slopes of this pristine mountain landscape provide great camping, hiking, fishing, and photographic possibilities. The entire family will love it.

The name Worlds End has been used since the late 1800s, but its origins are still very uncertain. Some folks called it Whirl’s Glenn and a combination of the two — Whirl’s End was the actual name of the park from 1936 to 1943. The name officially changed back to Worlds End in 1943 according to my records.

The park features several hiking trails for all types of walkers looking to enjoy Worlds End’s beauty. The well-maintained paths cover a variety of rocky terrains carved through the surrounding mountains. These trails provide hikers with incredible views of the entire Loyalsock Valley. Some treks are more difficult than others but yield a bigger reward. Regardless- the whole area is an ideal habitat to all kinds of wildlife and over 200 species of birds. The canopy of trees and the rock formations created by the waters below are second to none. Worlds End State Park can be enjoyed at any time of the year.

The Loyalsock Trail passes through the park and serves as a home base for many of the Worlds End day hikes. Brochures and maps will explain more. But before selecting a trail — I strongly suggest you stop by the park office and ask for some help. The High Rock Trail is one of my personal favorites. This 1-mile loop takes you on a short rocky journey to High Rock Vista and High Rock Falls. The Butternut Trail is a 2.5-mile loop that ascends along the creek for another impressive view. The Canyon Vista Trail is a challenging 4-mile loop that dissects the eastern portion of the park. You eventually climb to 1750 feet at Canyon Vista.

Jensen and I headed up to Worlds End on a warm afternoon in June. The Park Office was our very first stop, and we agreed to try a new hike that was suggested. The LT Link Trail started right at the station. It took us along the banks of Loyalsock Creek. The water that day was crystal clear and flowing heavy.

We came to the Double Run trailhead after a quick mile. The reward of this 1.2-mile swing was an up-close encounter with Cottonwood Falls. The backwoods setting and natural rhythms were so peaceful. It was another great day out.

I am not an outdoor expert by any means, but you should always dress accordingly and wear the proper footwear while on the trails. I always recommend that you use extreme caution too. There are many slippery slopes and difficult terrains. Give a hoot. Don’t pollute. Pack out what you pack in. Get the next generation of kin involved with the great outdoors and keep things fun and interesting when you do.

Our friends at Worlds End State Park cordially invite you to a full-day celebration on Saturday, July 27th. These events are geared towards the entire family with free admission. Worlds End Day 2019 will feature several presentations by many local organizations and state agencies. Come see Bald and Golden Eagles and learn all about these fascinating PA raptors. The Lycoming College Clean Water Institute will present an educational and entertaining “Science on the Sock” program. Environmental educator Jane Swift will coordinate fun activities for the kids. It is guaranteed to be a festive day. Hopefully, you can make it. Worlds End State Park is another treasure in the backyard. Cheers.