Hickory Run - Walking past History and Into Nature

Join me for a simple walk along the beautiful Hickory Run in Hickory Run State Park. This 1.5 mile out and back route begins on route 534 near the park office and ends at the Saylorsville Dam area. The hike follows a one way park road along the beautiful Hickory Run and passes several historic buildings, man made low falls, natural waterfalls, crumbling ruins, and scenic pockets of large White Pine, Hemlock, and Rhododendron thickets. With 40 miles of trail within the park, this route represents about the easiest type of scenic walk one can do, with countless add ons , extensions, and loops one could make this hike much longer and challenging if one chose. On this particular day I was looking for easypeasy and lots of "bang for the buck" which this route provides. At Saylorsville Dam there is a small pond and impressive falls, its a great place to sit down and revel in the beauty and simplicity of mother nature... #natureadventurediscovery #scenicpennsylvania

[@grillinandchillinwithdeb]

So beautiful, it's funny how some people don't realize how hard it is to truly make an amazing video. We truly enjoy them and all the time and effort you bring with each one. Thank You so much.

[@WALTERZOLNA]

Thanks I really appreciate you saying that. People definitely don't realize everything that goes into one person filming themselves and nature. You become the camera man, host, actor, director, editer, producer, sound guy, script writer, researcher and everything else... But I love doing it and I really appreciate the supportive comments.

[@debbiehills2928]

Thanks!

[@WALTERZOLNA]

😃🤗 So kind of you Debbie, thank you!!!

[@ianrumnock]

Place is amazing ✊🏻✊🏻✊🏻✊🏻

[@WALTERZOLNA]

Yes it is !

[@darlenegood4101]

I love the icicles around that last waterfall. Thank you for filming such beauty.

[@WALTERZOLNA]

This was such a fun and easy video to make. So much to see when you move slowly, deliberately, through the woods...

[@chazzie5418]

One of my favorite parks and trails. That is a nice trail to drive for those who can no longer hike. Thanks for sharing .

[@WALTERZOLNA]

My pleasure thanks for the comments! It would be fun to drive through the fordway. It is a great park....

[@don55s]

BEAUTIFUL PENNSYVANIA!!!! ROCK ON!!!!

[@WALTERZOLNA]

ROCK ON BROTHER!

[@WALTERZOLNA]

Sorry about the glitch at the 0:55 mark, something went goofy with my editing software that I can't figure out - very annoying. I simply don't have the time to redo it. Should be a beautiful early Spring weekend get outside and find your #natureadventurediscovery !!!

[@rbpat52]

Pennsylvania Perfect indeed. I’m continually amazed at the beauty of this wonderful state and so grateful for the amazing showcase you give it. Thank you for sharing your remarkable talent with all of us.

[@WALTERZOLNA]

Robyn, thanks for that wonderful comment! It really is a tremendously diverse landscape, and to think humanity has done so much to alter and damage the natural character of Pennsylvania, yet and still, the beauty is boundless and endless, just amazing!

[@andyhuber1728]

We really appreciate what you do!

[@WALTERZOLNA]

Thanks, that means alot to me hearing that, I really appreciate it.

[@mikelampman6531]

Keep inspiring us! Great video!

[@WALTERZOLNA]

Appreciate that thanks alot, you know I'm going to try!👍👍

[@eleanorbuck715]

Walter, Your videos are beautiful. Thank you for sharing your adventures with us!

[@WALTERZOLNA]

It makes me so happy to be able to share the beauty of Pennsylvania and the places I come across. Thanks for your support!

[@debbiehills2928]

❤wow😮walter. Wish i was there!!! Look at the sky and waterfalls! 🎉❤ be safe buddy.😊 thank you.❤❤❤😊

[@WALTERZOLNA]

Thank you kindly Debbie, Hickory Run is a charming stream. The small falls and bridges developed over the years seem to accentuate the natural scenery...

[@debbiehills2928]

I am excited. I ordered 2 purple lizard maps!!!

[@pennsylvaniaforestadventurer]

Greatly appreciate your love for Pennsylvania. I don't get out to Eastern PA much, so I appreciate your videos of these places 1. Because I don't get there and 2. So I have a reason to try! I also love just enjoying streams and trees. Great Stuff... Thanks!

[@WALTERZOLNA]

Trees and streams ... Happiness. Nature's medicine for the soul... We don't have alot of forest and wild areas here in the eastern part of the state but the areas that have been preserved are usually very nice. Happy hiking my friend, I appreciate you...

[@scotto6314]

Appreciate you sharing another beauty Walter. See ya on the next one . Stay safe

[@WALTERZOLNA]

Absolutely brother, thanks so much.

[@scenicsteps75]

another awesome video..Be safe brother...

[@WALTERZOLNA]

Thanks brother, always gotta be safe first, the best advice one can give... appreciate you

[@gracegarden1]

I love the water too. There was lots to enjoy on this trail! It's been so hard to get out lately between the terrible weather and my schedule. I'm going stir-crazy. Seeing this helps - and doesn't. It makes me need to get out there even more! Thanks for your epic filmwork. Those icy shots were awesome. Thanks for braving the cold even though you like the chilly weather. Peace & Prayers.

[@WALTERZOLNA]

Weather has been strange. Lots and lots of rain. As I type just finishing a little hike. It was beautiful weather then all the sudden, the skies opened up in a hail storm, 3 minutes later it was done.🤷 It's already starting to get too warm for me. Anything over 60, makes hiking difficult in my opinion, or maybe I just need to improve my conditioning. Hope you get out there soon Carol!

[@kathyrankin5108]

This is now my favorite video. You just keep getting better and better. Thank you.

[@WALTERZOLNA]

Wow, thank you. It was certainly a picture perfect day for being outside. It actually started out really cold and grey. I went to another location first that was a total bust. I ended up going with this little route and it turned out really well. Thanks again 🙂

[@GlennaRedcliffe]

Stunning area. Like the map! Hope you have a great weekend. 😎

[@WALTERZOLNA]

Thanks Glenna may you have a blessed weekend as well!

[@scottcoard1486]

That looks like it would be a fun four season trail with different sights in each season.

[@WALTERZOLNA]

It is 100 percent a great year round destination for hiking, and I say destination not for this particular trail but because the park is huge 16000 acres and containers 40 miles of trail!

[@bahamajim1998]

So great of a video ❤

[@WALTERZOLNA]

Thanks brother appreciate that very much, Hickory Run is awesome place.

[@jessicasadeghi4083]

Beautiful spot in the waterfall where you rested.

[@WALTERZOLNA]

The conditions were perfect for a stroll through nature. Cold and crisp, blue skies and sunshine... The water features of Hickory Run are wonderful!

[@richarddouglas1712]

Love that park! It's been many years since I been there! Thanks for the post!!

[@WALTERZOLNA]

It's a great one, hopefully brought up some fond memories for you!

[@dayhikedave]

Better than going to the movies. Really liked the approach to the chapel then the sun glistening on the waterfall. Great hike. Thanks for sharing. Hopefully see you soon 👍🙂🙏 I need to get to hickory run.

[@WALTERZOLNA]

Nature conspired to create the perfect atmosphere for a pleasant walk in the woods. See you soon buddy hopefully, for what may be just a bit more than a simple stroll in the woods 😁

[@hikingoutdoorfamily]

This was beautiful. I've been to Hickory Run many times, but you pointed out new things to me in this video. I agree with you, even if you film you are enjoying nature and getting joy from it. I find since filming, I slow down and take my time more than I used to when I was just hiking.

[@WALTERZOLNA]

Oh I absolutely agree. I go much slower and more deliberately when I'm filming, and I'm constantly looking around for animals, plants, flowers etc ... It took me near 4 hours to walk that mile and a half and then like 25 minutes back lol!

[@kippbachurski4766]

Thanks Walter ! It’s our favorite state park and go several times a year, that’s one trail I don’t think we’ve done and will in a few weeks.

[@WALTERZOLNA]

It's my go to park when I don't have a solid plan In place cause every trail is awesome and the scenery is just so nice in there. It's that real classic Pocono habit. I only went a short distance about a mile and a half but you could certainly extend the hike much much longer if you like, which I'm sure you probably know. It just so happens I spent like 4 hours walking a mile and a half! 😁

[@darcyshikingdiaries]

I can’t wait to check this section of Hickory Run State Park out! I’m glad I made it the place I’m going to for my first over night backpacking trip! You captured so many beautiful spots on this hike!! Thanks for taking us along!

[@WALTERZOLNA]

There are so many great trails and things to see in Hickory Run you will never be able to see it all in one trip. Good luck on your camping trip!

[@davidklippel2442]

Great hike great scenery thanks

[@rubberduckie123]

I just found your channel recently and had to sub. As a resident of PA, I am loving the fact that someone is doing such an in depth tribute to ou beautiful state. I don't think PA gets enough props. We are definitely underrated for sure. Hickory Run holds a very special place in my heart not only because I used to take my kids there exploring...in particular Boulder Field...but mostly because my husband and I got married in that chapel back in October 2019. Fall is my favorite time of year and it was absolutely beautiful there with all the fall colors. We had our reception not too far from there at the Boulder View Tavern in Lake Harmony and then took our honeymoon exploring parts of our state that I have never seen...PA Wilds and other areas. Thank you for sharing all this beauty with the community.

[@WALTERZOLNA]

Thanks for such a wonderful and detailed comments and I truly appreciate it. I agree with everything you said about Pennsylvania, and I am just trying to do my part to show the natural beauty and abundant history of the state. Thanks for subscribing to the channel and welcome to our community!

[@pennsylvaniaadventurers2691]

Ain't nothing faked or staged about you bud. Another outstanding walk. Enjoyed very much. Thanks for sharing

[@WALTERZOLNA]

Appreciate that alot thank you. I do it because I love doing it and want to share with others as best that I can ...

[@riversandcoffee]

What an awesome Park and place to hike... The chapel is beautiful.. and streams like that are what I dream about. Oh man.. and the waterfalls.... Lovely. Taking a camera and the whole KZbin thing has helped me spend more time in the field and on the water... (doing what we love to do). Thanks and Great Work✌️

[@WALTERZOLNA]

Thanks buddy, KZbin has kept me out in the field where I love to be, I agree...

[@naturelover9162]

Beautiful work bro.🙏🏻🙏🏻

[@WALTERZOLNA]

Thank you very much...

[@bwatcher1000]

I thoroughly enjoyed this one. You ARE inspiring. I just got back from a hike I saw on your channel, Shenk's Ferry. I love your videos. Thank you for sharing with us.

[@WALTERZOLNA]

Thanks so much, I really appreciate to hearing that. How was Shenks Ferry I was thinking about heading over there in the next few days. Are the flowers popping?

[@travelingRonman]

I think most people when they go to Hickory Run are either at Hawk Falls, the Shades of Death Trail or the Boulder Field. there is so much more then those areas and this hike is a great example of that. Beautiful, scenic, and easy to navigate where anyone of any skill level can see the great outdoors.

[@WALTERZOLNA]

Well, you basically just wrote the perfectly worded comment so there is not much more I can add to it ! Well said brother!

[@robertyoung1726]

There is a cemetery there by the office from back in the day there was a flood and a dam broke killing the town people. Cool place thanks for the video.

[@WALTERZOLNA]

I know, I missed on the cemetery, that would have been a neat place to observe. I didn't show it in the video but on my return to my car I noticed a stone ruins on the opposite bank of Hickory Run. It's not marked on any maps, was probably a mill, but I did check it out and was really neat. Had to bushwack up stream and you would probably never notice it during foliage season...

[@ervinslens]

Walter, I enjoyed, I enjoyed the scenes but also the special atmosphere that you managed to show here. You gave soul to this video with subtle and gentle transitions, hats off! Your storytelling is nothing less than amazing! 👏👏

[@WALTERZOLNA]

Thanks my friend. Even a very simple walk in the woods has the effect of absolutely lifting my mood and spirits. I just hope a bring a bit of that positive message to those who watch...

[@mountainsintomemories]

First, wow, what an awesome video of an amazing Pennsylvania State Park. You’ve outdone yourself here. Second, in regard to the thing about us KZbinrs. There’s absolutely times where I’m really in the moment. There plenty of times, where filming it puts me even more in the moment. There’s plenty of times where the need for content forces me to find new places and see new things. Obviously, not everything is always perfect. Sometimes it’s stressful, especially if conditions and life get in the way. Then I get “in the moment” in a bad way; which is a shame because I venture into the forest to escape that sort of thing. Anyways, thanks for sharing this place. One day, we’ll make it out to Hickory Run, it’s been on my list forever it seems. Catch you down the trail!

[@WALTERZOLNA]

KZbin has its ups and downs obviously, but by far has been mostly ups for me. I think specifically the meme that I was referring to was really specificly referring to people who film in the style I do with all the walk by shots. It's how I have always done it and I don't intend to change. 5 years ago it was a bit more unique of a look, now it seems almost everybody is doing it to some extent or other which is fine. If it's done right the viewer will be immersed in the experience not think anything about camera set up, placement, etc. If it's done poorly it will look awkward, uncomfortable, and unnatural. But hey like I always say, there are a million channels and something for everyone, so people can find the content they want. But for me, I love nature and hiking so much, I never feel that I am not " in the moment" out there...

[@kevind5396]

Beautiful as always. I’ve never hiked with you in person, but it seems pretty clear that you are enjoying the moment. Keep up the great work and hopefully someday we’ll cross paths on the trail.🥾🎒

[@WALTERZOLNA]

As I have often said, hiking and spending time in nature has a kind of therapeutic value to me that's hard to describe but unmistakable. And if I wasn't making KZbin videos I would still be hiking, I will be going out into the woods as long as I am physically capable... Cya on the trail buddy!

[@LumberjackPa]

We actually filmed a segment in one of our BBQ videos where I did the camera walkby. Somehow, it never made it in the final cut. It's probably because I had a fifteen minute limit with our former editing software. I have to remember to do that this summer. Anyway, as always, a great walk through a Pennsylvania Perfect forest! Thanks for being our host and for taking the time to share this with us!

[@WALTERZOLNA]

Everybody has there own unique style and take on things, and that is something that has always interested and appealed to me about the hiking video genre. To each there own in that regard, I say. Have a good one Lumberjack family....

[@quietjohnoutandabout6578]

Hi. Just before you commented about the Instagram message, I was thinking about the love you have for the Pennsylvania scenery. Now that is real. And yes, some don't see the serene moments on our hikes. Thanks.

[@WALTERZOLNA]

That I can promise, you and anyone else who may read this is real. My love of nature, hiking, and Pennsylvania, and my gratitude for the amazing community of folks both fellow creators, friends, and viewers of the channel. I am very blessed to be able to do what I do , that's something I never lose sight of...

[@fivehorizons5295]

I can’t believe I’ve never been to Hickory Run State Park! I’m definitely going now! I don’t feel just because you film yourself out in nature that you don’t enjoy the moment. It’s definitely good to put the camera away sometimes for sure though. Another great video 👍

[@WALTERZOLNA]

Alright, now I can't believe you haven't been to Hickory Run either!!! 40 miles of trails so you can stitch together a circuit as long as 15 miles or as short and easy as the one I did here. Many beautiful streams, changing forests, natural areas, waterfalls, history, I could go on and on....One of the best things too that makes it great especially for beginners is that there isn't much elevation change. Small hills but nothing crazy. It's very large for a state park too, something like 16,000 acres that's a lot of land to explore!

[@EvaOstrava]

Never actually been to Hickory Run, but it is on my list now 😊

[@WALTERZOLNA]

I can't believe you have never been there. I always thought it was one of the most popular parks especially with it's proximity to the turnpike and route 80. It's a great hiking park for easy to intermediate hikers. Beautiful scenery very little elevation gain...

[@EvaOstrava]

@@WALTERZOLNA I know right 😂 I knew of it, but never actually went, but looks really cool! Enjoy the eclipse today if you’re going to watch 😎

[@WALTERZOLNA]

@@EvaOstrava earthquake, eclipse,... they say things happen in threes 😮!

[@EvaOstrava]

@@WALTERZOLNA we’ll see what happens 😬 we didn’t feel the earthquake, probably won’t see the eclipse because of the clouds either 🤷🏻‍♀️

[@runningintohistory]

Always love your videography. Great job telling the story. We keep planning to check this place out but haven't made it yet.

[@WALTERZOLNA]

I would be interested to see your take on things. There are a few ghost stories that tie back to a great flood in the 1800s where several lost there lives along the stream and are buried at a small cemetery in the park. There are also documents and resources online pertaining to this event and I even found an old fairly extensive stone ruins along the stream that I didn't mention in the video. There is some material to work with there!

[@runningintohistory]

@@WALTERZOLNA interesting.

[@user-dc7qb2mq1l]

Yet another on my bucket list! Beautiful work! Between you, Ryan, Cliff and Dayhike Dave I've found some good spots to go...I'll be doing the Dayhike Dave loop at Trough Creek sometime this week.. I enjoy your work!

[@WALTERZOLNA]

If I could hand pick a crew of adventurous hikers, explorers, and youtubers all those guys would be at the top of the list. I hiked Trough Creek a number of years ago, and loved it - ofcourse that was long before the "YT" era. And I think I can safely say that myself and all of those you mentioned truly do appreciate your taking the time to watch, comment, and engage with our channels, have a good one at Trough Creek!

[@user-dc7qb2mq1l]

@@WALTERZOLNA it was a good one.

[@Digital-fahim]

I just watched your video on Hickory Run, where you walked past history and into nature, and it was a beautiful journey through both time and natural scenery! Hickory Run offers such a unique blend of historical sites and breathtaking landscapes. I'm curious, what inspired you to explore Hickory Run, and were there any specific historical landmarks or natural features that captivated you during your walk? Additionally, do you have any tips for viewers who may want to visit Hickory Run and experience its beauty firsthand?"

[@cathyp4342]

A beautiful hike . What is this about fake You Tube. What do they think you do stand in front of a green screen and smile? PA is so lovely.

[@WALTERZOLNA]

Hahaha, appreciate that. I guess they were trying to insinuate that myself and people like me "set up " shots. Well isn't that simply called photography or film making? Lots of angry hateful people on the Internet, I don't worry about them. I care about the amazing community of nature enthusiasts that are a part of this channel, truly amazing people.🙂