Just south of Tunkhannock lies Miller Mountain, a sprawling standalone peak that rises more than 2,000 feet above town. The mountain’s history is almost as impressive as its sheer size. It has been farmed, logged, and even considered for a ski resort, a plan that ultimately failed in the 1980s.
Now, the mountain is beginning a new chapter as public land. In fall 2023, the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) announced that Miller Mountain would become part of the Pinchot State Forest. The state partnered with The Conservation Fund and Williams to purchase the 2,500-acre property.
District Forester Nicholas Lylo described Miller Mountain as the gateway to the Endless Mountains. “As you come up Route 29 and enter into the river valley of Tunkhannock and Eaton Township, it’s the first real landmark that greets you,” he explained.
A year earlier, Wyoming County welcomed its first state park at Vosburg Neck. The new state forestland at Miller Mountain marks another key milestone for outdoor recreation in the Endless Mountains.
“As I was walking down the main street of Tunkhannock, I could see that Miller Mountain forms the backdrop of the town,” recalled Kyle Shenk, Northeast Regional Director of The Conservation Fund. “In my mind, that’s an important piece of the character of the town and the sense of place that you get while you’re there.”
The property is currently open for passive recreation such as walking, hiking, biking, birdwatching, hunting, and fishing. All state forest rules and regulations apply. Visitors should make sure to respect private property, which borders the mountain on all sides.
The Bureau of Forestry is still in the early stages of establishing boundary lines and assessing the mountain’s resources. As of winter 2024, trail maps, designated parking lots, and other amenities are not yet available. However, there are existing, unblazed logging paths that lead to breathtaking vistas.
“It’s really a ‘choose your own adventure’ kind of place right now, which I think is exciting for some people and might be a little bit out of the comfort zone for others,” said Shenk. “But there are places right on the edge that have beautiful views. You don’t have to go deep into the woods to enjoy the property.”
As access expands over the next few years, Miller Mountain has the potential to become a premier outdoor destination. For updates on the property, please visit DCNR’s website.
All photos provided by Williams Energy Company. Watch their stunning video to learn more about the acquisition of Miller Mountain.