Black Willow Water Trail

The start of the Black Willow Water Trail is located in the Bush Recreation Area of Saltsburg, Pennsylvania. The water trail runs along the Loyalhanna Lake's headwaters, which is popular for its scenery and plethora of activities for water lovers, like canoeing and fishing. The Black Willow Water Trail is 1.80 miles in length and allows outdoor enthusiasts a chance to get close-up views of the beauty the area has to offer while enjoying the gentle rush of the lake on a small boat, kayak, or canoe. 

To take a self-guided tour on the trail, you can grab an audio recording and educational brochure at the trail's access point that tells you all about some of the wildlife and geological features you might see on your way, as bird-watching and viewing the landscape are some of the most popular activities for those enjoying the lake. You'll learn more about marked stations along the trail that pinpoint interesting features and sights along the lake.

The Bush Recreation Area sits at the northern end of Loyalhanna Lake and has 45 campsites for tents and RVs. The area offers access to the lake for visitors to enjoy fishing and boating, and campers can participate in year-round bass fishing tournaments. Those using the Black Willow Water Trail are welcome to use the park's restrooms, picnic areas, and other nearby facilities. 

Boaters should use caution when navigating the trail near canoers and kayakers, and all should be careful of the shallow waters at the boat launch. Also, since this is a water trail, getting caught in a storm could be very dangerous. If you see a storm approach, you can move your boat to shore relatively easily and remain on shore until it passes. 

The Black Willow Water Trail offers an excellent mix of water recreation and sporting, education, and sightseeing, making it a perfect way to venture into the waters of Loyalhanna Lake.