Ticklish Rock

Ticklish Rock, at ground level

Ticklish Rock, from above

Ticklish Rock is an unusual sandstone rock formation. located in Shrewsbury Township, Sullivan County, Pennsylvania. The brown and green sandstone formation, which stands at the edge of a steep cliff and resembles an upright hammer, consists of a large horizontal block, 3 feet high, 8 feet long, and 6 feet wide (0.9 x 2.4 x 1.8 m), balanced upon a thin, 18 x 30 in (46 x 76 cm) pedestal.

Ticklish Rock is part of Pennsylvania's Catskill Formation, which was formed during the Devonian period. The outcrop itself is the result of more recent uneven weathering, which removed all but the pedestal from under the block.

Getting There

Trail head at Ticklish Rock

From U.S. Route 220, 5 miles north of Picture Rocks at Glen Mawr, up Rock Run 2 miles to Rock Run Church, on the left fork 2.3 miles to a house on the right. Parking is located shortly after the house across the road from the trail head. As of 4-1-2010 the trail sign was no longer there.

There is an immediate fork in the trail, take the right side. Be aware that although this is a 0.25 mile hike in, the grade of the trail is relatively steep. When you get to the top, continue towards the rocks. You will not immediately see Ticklish Rock as it will be below you. There are several paths to get down to the rock. Ranging from an easy grade to a scramble.

Advisory

Wreaths at Ticklish Rock

Be careful on the rocks, due to risk of falling. Some trails to the Ticklish Rock may not be for everyone. Scout an appropriate before heading down. Off the trails there are many prickly bushes.

In the area there are wreaths and flowers indicating that loved ones may have passed at this site. Please use your best judgement.

Remarks

A block of flat-lying, brown and green sandstone (Catskill Formation, Devonian age), 3 by 8 feet in cross section, 6 feet thick, resting on a pedestal that is 18 by 30 inches. The outcrop is on the rim of the Allegheny Ridge; an excellent example of differential weathering.

Reference

Pennsylvania Department of Internal Affairs (1939), Ticklish Rock - One of State's curious formations, Pennsylvania Department of Internal Affairs Monthly Bulletin 7, no. 11, p. 3-4.

http://www.lat-long.com/ShowDetail-43539-Pennsylvania-Ticklish_Rock.html