Hazards
Black bears, bobcats, and rattlesnakes can present a danger but only if you are foolish or very unlucky. When bears and people cross paths in the wild, usually the bear just wishes to leave the area. Very rarely will a bear act hostile towards people. Bobcats are only dangerous if cornered, startled or threatened.
The common rattlesnake of Pennsylvania, the Timber Rattler Crotalus horridus horridus, has venom of a medium potency. The venom can cause painful injuries but is rarely lethal. Many times when Timber rattlers strike for protection, they will not inject venom. Administering proper first aid, keeping calm and quickly receiving medical attention is the best response to a bite.
Read more about this topic: Mid State Trail (Pennsylvania)