Wild Asaph Outfitters

71 Main Street
Wellsboro, PA 16901
ph: 570.724.5155
wildasaphoutfitters@yahoo.com

FAQs & Links

If your visiting Tioga County for the first time you probably have questions about where to go and what to do to see the best of the PA Wilds in our region. Below is a list of questions and answers that help out most visitors. If if have a question that is not answered on this site please contact us at dothemountain@yahoo.com. If we don't know the answer we'll put you in contact with someone who does.

Is the PA Grand Canyon open year round to visitors and hikers?: Yes. The PA Grand Canyon is open to visitors at all times of the year. There are two state parks, Leonard Harrison and Colton Point, that offer parking and overlooks within a short walking distance. During the summer and fall months the visitor's center at Leonard Harrison is usually swarming with visitors and park rangers. Here you can find printed and visual information about the canyon itself as well as information about the eagles.
Where can I go to see the Bald Eagles?: The best place to spot the eagles is from the overlooks at Leonard Harrison and Colton Point state parks or from the rail trail that runs along the bottom of the canyon. They are often seen around the Lambs Creek area off of the route 15 visitors center just north of Mansfield as well.
We're only visiting the area for the weekend, should we spend time on the Rail Trail and if so what section?: If you are an avid rail trail biker or hiker you definately won't want to miss this one! The northern end of the trail offers a closer look at Pine Creek and the the steepest sections of the canyon. Here you can walk, bike, horseback ride or take a wagon ride along Pine Creek at the base of the canyon. The grade is fairly level and suitable for all ages and physical abilities to use. At Wild Asaph Outfitters we recommend the section from Blackwell to Slate Run. Here the rail trail is not as frequented at all times of the year. This section of the trail is lined with young sycamores and wildflowers in the late spring and early summer. There is easy access parking at Blackwell and ice cream in Slate Run or a full meal at the Manor.
Do I need a camping permit if I'm camping or backpacking on state forest land?: Yes, you need a permit if you intend to spend a night in any of the state forest. This includes backpacking trips on the West Rim Trail and Old Loggers Path. The permit is free and if you are on Tioga County land you can obtain the permit from the local forestry office at Nessmuck Lake located on RT 287 just south of Wellsboro. If you are in another county (i.e. the Old Loggers Path is in Lycoming County) you need to obtain a permit from that county's forestry office. Here is a link to DCNR's website. You can get a permit by mail from their site.
Should we be worried about bears and rattlesnakes?: Black bears, rattlsnakes and other creatures do live in abundance in Tioga County. There is a very good chance you will see at least one of them if you spend some time in the canyon area or on any of the other hiking trails in North-Central PA. Remember this, if you leave them alone, they will leave you alone. Snakes are often present on the rail trail when the sun is out during the summer months. Try not to run over them with your bike or horse. We like our snakes and live in harmony with them. Watch for snakes on trails. They are easily mistaken for roots. If you hear a sharp rattling sound stop and try to locate where it is coming from; then move away from that area and go back to enjoying your hike.