NRT Database

Location: Loyalhanna Lake, Bush Recreation Area
State(s): Pennsylvania
Counties: Westmoreland
Longitude: -79.43691
Latitude: 40.43842

Driving Directions

SR 22 to SR 981 to Bush Recreation Area.

Description

The Black Willow's older trail features have changed over the past few years due to the cycling of various natural resources, and also the sedimentation shifting of the Loyalhanna Lake, a typical life cycle process experienced by all flood control projects.

In December of 2003, the US Army Corps of Engineers formed a unique choice for trail and water enthusiasts. The trail is designed to accommodate smaller boats, canoes, and kayaks as it journeys into the undisturbed Loyalhanna Lake headwaters. A brochure and an audio cassette track (under development) highlight the journey and provide information on designated site attractions of the water trail. New attractions include observing the lives of different bird species such as the red tail hawk, wood ducks, and observing the majestic, "king of the Black Willow" the Osprey. Other unique features on the two-mile interpretive trail consist of remarkable natural, geological, and cultural resources.

Visitors will be captivated by the scenery and landscape of the Loyalhanna headwaters. The journey starts at the Black Willow Water Trail bulletin board, where a brochure can be obtained, along with the audio cassette track on loan from the Ranger Station. A boat launch, camping area, day use facility, parking, restrooms, and playground are within the immediate vicinity of the trail at the Bush Recreation Area. The Black Willow Water Trail, revitalized in 2004 due to the Corps of Engineers partnership with Saltsburg River & Trail will provide excellent water adventures for years to come.

Additional Details

Primary Surface: Puncheon
Secondary Surface: Water, moving

Elevation Low Point: Not Available
Elevation High Point: Not Available
Elevation Gain (cumulative): Not Available

Year Designated: 1985

Supporting Webpages and Documents

Contact Information

For more information and current conditions, contact the trail manager (listed below). For questions, suggestions, and corrections to information listed on the website, contact American Trails.

Trail Management:
Dave Bishop
Resource Manager
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
Loyalhanna Lake
440 Loyalhanna Dam Rd.
Saltsburg, PA 15681 -2206
(724) 639-9013
[email protected]

Information Contact:
Dave Bishop
Resource Manager
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
Loyalhanna Lake
440 Loyalhanna Dam Rd.
Saltsburg, PA 15681 -2206
(724) 639-9013
[email protected]