Michael Sauers

August 23, 2024

Jakey Hollow is a 59 acre natural area snuggled in Columbia County just outside Bloomsburg. It is part of the Weiser State Forest under the auspices of the PA Department of Conservation and Natural Resources. It is also part of the Old-Growth Forest Network. It is easy to find via Google. It contains a small area of virgin hemlock as well as an excellent area of second growth eastern hemlock, old eastern white pine and some other hardwoods.

Not many people go there. I’m not sure why. It is truly enchanting. Quiet. Peaceful. Renewing. There are hundreds of these hollows scattered about everywhere. While logging did occur in these places, including Jakey Hollow, it was difficult because of the terrain. So, thankfully, Jakey Hollow was not clear cut.

The hike in Jakey Hollow is approximately 1-2 miles with a little bit of ingenuity and some back tracking. The trail is fairly obvious and runs on both sides of the small creek. It is worth the effort. Take a lunch. There are plenty of places to sit and enjoy.

Birdsong is abundant. Owls, vireo, warblers, tanagers, woodpeckers and others are here. Many other animals live here or use it as a run including porcupines, raccoons, opossums, fox, coyotes, toads, frogs and snakes. If you are lucky and quiet you will spot something. There is amble evidence of their presence; scat, footprints, hair, nest sites, etc.

What I like best about Jakey Hollow is the air. It is clean and crisp and sweet. I like to fill my lungs with it.

Try it. Enjoy!