Pennsylvania · Hiking

Elk Loop Hiking

2.0 mi
loop
48 ft
climb
1,750 ft
high point
Loop
route
Jul–Sep
best months

Is Elk Loop Hiking open right now?

Closure in the area

There's a closure order in Allegheny National Forest. It doesn't name Elk Loop Hiking, so check the source for the area it covers (3 listed).

As of · Source: USFS · Allegheny National Forest. Agencies don't list every closure — check before you go.

Elk Loop Hiking is an easy 2.04-mile loop trail in the Marienville Ranger District of Allegheny National Forest in Pennsylvania, managed by the Forest Service. The trail is not accessible, and bikes and horses are not allowed. The loop rises from about 1,695 feet to about 1,750 feet, with a total gain of 48 feet and a total loss of 152 feet. The steepest stretch comes at about 0.57 miles in, with a grade of about 5%. Summer and early fall are the most comfortable times to go. Typical averages from a nearby weather station in Ridgway show July highs around 81°F and September highs around 74°F, while winter brings highs in the mid-30s and regular snow days. Laurel Mill Hiking is just 0.1 mile away, and Perseverance Loop and Scout Loop are within half a mile. Red Mill Campground, about 5.7 miles off, is the closest place to camp.

  • Best time to go · Jul–Sep

    Best time to visit Elk Loop Hiking

    Best months: July–September. Best months have typical highs of 55–85 °F, lows of 30 °F or warmer (32 °F where the station doesn't record snow), at most one snowy day and no more than 12 wet days.

    1. Jan

      34° / 16°

      17 wet · 9 snow

    2. Feb

      37° / 16°

      14 wet · 8 snow

    3. Mar

      45° / 23°

      14 wet · 5 snow

    4. Apr

      59° / 33°

      14 wet · 1 snow

    5. May

      70° / 43°

      15 wet

    6. Jun

      77° / 52°

      13 wet

    7. Jul

      81° / 57°

      12 wet

    8. Aug

      80° / 55°

      11 wet

    9. Sep

      74° / 49°

      11 wet

    10. Oct

      62° / 38°

      14 wet

    11. Nov

      49° / 30°

      14 wet · 2 snow

    12. Dec

      38° / 23°

      17 wet · 6 snow

    Typical high / low (°F) and days with rain or snow, 1991–2020. Measured at Ridgway, PA, 2.2 mi away at 1,360 ft. Source: NOAA NCEI U.S. Climate Normals 1991–2020.