I’ve seen some pretty incredible rock formations in Pennsylvania, but few, if any, are as amazing as Ticklish Rock in Sullivan County, PA.
Ticklish Rock is located deep in the woods of Northeastern PA on a largely unmarked trail a short drive from Eagles Mere. This is the sort of spot you’d never find without directions or someone who knows where they are going, but fortunately for you, I was able to suss out how to get there.
It’s worth noting upfront that Ticklish Rock is not located on public land. Instead, it’s on land owned by the Ticklish Rock Hunting Club. Access to the rock is allowed for the majority of the year at the time of writing (October 2024). Please help keep it that way by being respectful when you visit.
Note that during prime hunting season (September 15 to January 15 of each year), public access is only allowed on Sundays.
Keep reading for all the information you need to find this fun and unique spot.
Parking for Ticklish Rock
The trail to Ticklish Rock starts along the aptly named Ticklish Rock Road (also known as T300). The majority of the trip here is on paved roads, though the last mile and a half or so is a well-maintained dirt road.
During my approach from Route 42 and my exit to Route 220, I had no difficulty accessing this area in a standard car. Just keep in mind that once there is snow and ice on the roads, the last bit here is likely not maintained in the winter.
There is no parking lot here, but there is room to park on the side of the road at the following coordinates: 41.353382, -76.648165. You can also use the address for the hunting club, which is next to the parking area: 1106 Ticklish Rock Rd, Muncy Valley, PA 17758.
When you park, do not park at the hunting club or block their driveway or the road in anyway. Remember that you are a guest on their property.
[Click here for information on how to use coordinates to find your destination.]
Hiking to Ticklish Rock
The hiking trail to Ticklish Rock starts across the road from the Ticklish Rock Hunting Club. There are several small signs here that indicate when you can hike and a sign noting ATVs aren’t allowed. This trail is obvious, but don’t expect a large sign saying you are at Ticklish Rock.
The trail to the rock is less than a half-mile round trip and isn’t marked. However, it’s quite easy to follow, so you shouldn’t have to worry about getting lost. Just make sure that you follow the regular trail and not the road past the gate at the bottom of the hill, and you should be fine.
The hike starts out with a bit of a steep uphill section, but this is short and shouldn’t pose any issues for those that can handle uneven terrain.
Soon, the trail reaches the hilltop and levels out as it passes through a beautiful field. This area can be a bit overgrown in the summer, but the trail is still obvious through the grass.
Shortly after the field, you’ll see a rock outcropping and a cliff. During the summer the views here aren’t great, but I imagine they would be quite nice with no leaves on the trees.
Ticklish Rock sits just below these cliffs, so you won’t see it unless you walk to the edge and peer over. For those who like to hike with coordinates, Ticklish Rock can be found here: 41.350109, -76.647833.
While the hike here is easy, viewing Ticklish Rock is a bit tricky since it sits below the cliffs.
The easiest way is to see it from above by peering over the ledge. Obviously be careful if you do this as a fall would be quite nasty.
The best views of Ticklish Rock, however, can be found at the bottom of the cliffs. This area is accessed by climbing down a small opening between the upper rocks. If you opt to climb down, make sure to use caution as this is a bit tricky.
It’s from the bottom where you can really see the unique shape of Ticklish Rock. This is truly an impressive formation and has weathered into a pretty amazing hammer-like shape. It almost looks like you could just push it over without any trouble.
This structure of Ticklish Rock is made of sandstone and is about 8 feet long. All told, the entire formation is about fifteen feet in height.
Once you’ve finished enjoying this spot, simply retrace your steps for the short hike back to your vehicle.
Overall, Ticklish Rock is a really fun spot to visit. While it is a bit challenging to see because of its location below the cliffs, the uniqueness of the spot and the ease of the hike make this a really fun spot to visit when exploring Northeastern PA.
Reminder: From September 15 through January 15 of each year, hiking to Ticklish Rock is only allowed on Sundays.
Looking for more places to visit nearby? Check out Worlds End State Park, the covered bridges of Sullivan County, and the Eagles Mere Air Museum.
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