County Farm Conservation Trail
Overview
This trail can be done as a loop or semi-loop with total distances of 1-1.5 miles. The trail begins with a view down over farm pastures then descends down into a wet forested area paralleling a small creek. The trail then ascends to a forested loop with fields to the sides and an overlook above Loyalsock Creek. To get back to the beginning you can go back the original trail, or follow the edge of the farm field, passing a number of bluebird boxes. There is also a garden area and a purple martin house near the parking lot.
Directions
From the green bridge between Montoursville and Loyalsock (E 3rd St/Broad St), take Warrensville Road north 1.75 miles and turn right onto County Farm Rd. Drive past Valley View Nursing Center, follow the road to the left towards the Lysock Complex. Drive clockwise around the building and park at the front side of the building. The trail begins near the information kiosk.
Species of Note
Purple Martin
A purple martin box houses a colony near the parking area. They did not nest in 2015 but did in previous years.
Blue-gray Gnatcatcher
Blue-gray gnatcatchers are often heard during the breeding season where the trail descends into the wet area.
Woodpeckers
The expected woodpecker species are found in the wooded areas. Red-headed Woodpecker has been recorded once as well.
Eastern Bluebird
The Lycoming Audubon Society maintains and successful bluebird trail along the fields.
