[2] The Black Forest Trail has been cited as one of the most scenic and challenging backpacking routes in Pennsylvania, with dozens of expansive vistas,[3] several rugged descents into and out of Pine Creek Gorge,[4] and remote plateau areas with evidence of railroad and logging operations from the late nineteenth century.

[5] The Black Forest Trail is traditionally described in the counter-clockwise direction, starting at the village of Slate Run, near PA Route 414 within Pine Creek Gorge.

[3] Hikers were traditionally forced to cross the wide Slate Run to begin the hike, but a footbridge was opened in 2014.

[11] Now heading south, the Black Forest Trail follows the County Line Branch of Young Womans Creek, crossing it several times over the next several miles.

The trail makes its final steep descent and reaches the side of Slate Run at 40.7 miles, and then joins an easy logging railroad grade.