Jeff Mitchell's Blog, page 19
December 30, 2019
Red Brook and Stony Brook Wilderness Loop-SGL 57
This is a challenging and beautiful loop that explores the wilderness of SGL 57. Only experienced hikers should attempt it, and a navigation device is strongly recommended. This hike uses a series of old logging roads and grades, and off trail hiking. No trails are blazed or have signs. The old grades are in variable condition, from being easy to follow, to overgrown. The grades are often washed out when crossing streams. This hike also requires several stream crossings without bridges. We did this loop over two hikes.
Why hike this? The diversity is amazing. You will see waterfalls, cascades, gorges, amazing spruce and hemlock forests, impressive rock outcrops and features, wetlands and streams. The rocks here are very scenic, with caves, chasms, mazes, and giant boulders.
The parking has space for about four cars. Walk up the road, away from Stony Brook, and turn right onto an old forest road and hike above Stony Brook. Reach a hemlock grove and a massive boulder below on the right, here, jog up to a narrow grade on the left. This grade is narrow and clings to the side of the slope, but can be hiked. This grade joins a large one, continue straight. Enter a hardwood forest with some large trees. The grade is wet and washed out in places. Look for the place where the grade continues straight, and begins to go downhill, and where another joins from the left. Turn left. Then turn right onto another grade, which will take you above Red Brook.
Red Brook is a highlight of the hike with its rugged gorge, boulders, waterfalls, spruce and cascades. The first falls (Lower Red Brook Falls) is below the grade, so you will have to descend to see it. It is about 25 feet tall over two drops and is very scenic with deep pools in the bedrock. Continue up the grade into the gorge, which disappears as it crosses Red Brook. Cross the brook and go upstream, off trail, passing a small runoff stream to the right (this will be the next leg of the hike). Continue up Red Brook a short distance to the second falls (Upper Red Brook Falls), which is a long slide in a remarkable grotto of cliffs and large hemlocks.
Retrace your steps to the runoff creek and hike up it, off trail. Just follow the small stream. Enter a beautiful forest of hemlock and spruce. The trail levels off and you will be greeted with ledges. Turn right/east along the ledges and explore the outcrops, chasms, and mazes in the beautiful forests. Many are covered in moss and lichens. It is worth exploring the top, and bottom, of the rocks. Reach the impressive Boulder Caves, which are mansion sized boulders, angled and ajar, creating caves, chasms, and passageways. Nearby, on the plateau, are some amazing moss covered chasms about 12 feet deep. Continue along the edge of the plateau to enjoy the rocks, which recede in size. Pass a unique, seven foot tall boulder standing on its end. Enter a stunning spruce forest which is quite thick. Reach more rocks and chasms, and a five foot falls. There is another chasm in the spruce. From there, we began to descend to Stony Brook.
Cross Stony Brook and hike upstream along an old grade. We left the grade, heading north, crossing a meadow, and rejoining Stony Brook to some wetlands surrounded by hemlock and spruce. The isolation was incredible. We headed northeast to some rock outcrops and a cove with a unique rock maze, and then we followed the perimeter of the rocks, crossed some fern meadows, and reached another old road/grade that we take to Catlin Brook and Meadows. We turned right onto this grade as it explored the top of the plateau with fern meadows, and a climb above ledges to where the spruce returned. At the next intersection we turned right and then descended with a couple of stream crossings. At the next intersection, we turned right, with a six foot falls nearby. We walked down a glen of fractured rock and continued down Stony Fork. This grade is washed out along Stony Brook, we picked our away along the creek. We then passed an old gate and followed the old road to another washed out stream crossing, but a path guided the way. We then followed the road back down to Mehoopany Creek and the cars.
We parked at about 41.466900, -76.161440. The loop is about 12 miles long.
For the map above: Red is off trail. Yellow are old grades/forest roads. Black dots are rock features, such as ledges, caves, chasms, or boulders.
View this post on InstagramA post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Dec 8, 2019 at 2:45pm PST
View this post on InstagramUpper Red Brook Falls, located in a grotto of cliffs. SGL 57.
A post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Dec 8, 2019 at 3:04pm PST
View this post on InstagramExploring the incredible Boulder Caves. SGL 57.
A post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Dec 8, 2019 at 3:18pm PST
View this post on InstagramThe spruce forests on these high plateaus were amazing today. SGL 57.
A post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Dec 8, 2019 at 5:04pm PST
View this post on InstagramExploring mossy chasms. SGL 57.
A post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Dec 8, 2019 at 5:11pm PST
View this post on InstagramDeep in the Boulder Caves, SGL 57.
A post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Dec 9, 2019 at 1:06pm PST
View this post on InstagramImpressive roots in the chasm. Looked like roots from Angkor Wat. SGL 57.
A post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Dec 9, 2019 at 2:51pm PST
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View this post on InstagramDeep dark spruce waters of Lower Red Brook Falls. All the drops total 30ish feet. SGL 57.
A post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Dec 9, 2019 at 4:59pm PST
View this post on InstagramRoots of ice. SGL 57. A 5 foot falls was nearby.
A post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Dec 9, 2019 at 5:04pm PST
View this post on InstagramA post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Dec 9, 2019 at 5:39pm PST
View this post on InstagramCave/maze passageway, SGL 57. Explored a new area of rocks and cliffs.
A post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Dec 10, 2019 at 1:03pm PST
View this post on InstagramMore new rock areas we explored in SGL 57, including a seven foot tall boulder standing on its end.
A post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Dec 10, 2019 at 1:07pm PST
View this post on InstagramA post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Dec 10, 2019 at 1:10pm PST
View this post on InstagramLarge boulders and deep pools at the Crystal Cascade on Stony Brook, SGL 57.
A post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Dec 10, 2019 at 1:14pm PST
View this post on InstagramWithin a temple of spruce. SGL 57.
A post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Dec 10, 2019 at 3:30pm PST
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View this post on InstagramA post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Dec 16, 2019 at 3:57pm PST
View this post on InstagramBack in the spruce. Explored the headwaters of Stony Brook. Wild country up there. SGL 57.
A post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Dec 21, 2019 at 3:27pm PST
View this post on InstagramHeadwaters heaven. Near the source of Stony Brook. SGL 57.
A post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Dec 21, 2019 at 3:29pm PST
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View this post on InstagramA window in church. Stony Brook headwaters, SGL 57.
A post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Dec 21, 2019 at 3:35pm PST
View this post on InstagramBoreal wetlands, these places are very biodiverse. SGL 57.
A post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Dec 21, 2019 at 3:38pm PST
View this post on InstagramExploring a new rock maze. SGL 57.
A post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Dec 21, 2019 at 3:42pm PST
View this post on InstagramMehoopany Creek twilight. An awesome day in the wilderness. SGL 57.
A post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Dec 21, 2019 at 3:44pm PST
December 18, 2019
Mountain Springs and Cherry Run Loop-Ricketts Glen State Park
With the Falls Trail closed every winter to hikers (unless they have the required gear), hiking may seem limited at Ricketts Glen during the colder months. It isn’t. With the new trail to Valley View, and this loop, there is still a lot to explore. I really enjoy this loop with its isolation, deep hemlock forests, beautiful streams, cascades and waterfalls. The highlight is the sublime Little Cherry Run Trail as it explores a gorge with cascades, rapids and small waterfalls. Large rocks, ledges, moss, ferns, and hemlocks complete the beauty of this gorge. Besides the Falls Trail, you simply cannot miss the Little Cherry Run Trail while hiking at Ricketts Glen.
We began at the parking area and hiked a trail alongside the cabin area. Where the Falls Trail turned right, we went left to the breached Lake Leigh Dam. I wish I knew the history of this unique dam. We then turned right onto the trail to Mountain Springs, blazed red. A waterfall is below the trail. We hiked among the hemlocks and meandering streams. In places, the trail was quite wet. Moss covered the ground. The forests at Ricketts Glen are so beautiful. We veered left at the next intersection, continuing on the red Mountain Springs Trail. We descended along an old forest road, enjoying the hemlocks and Bowmans Creek when it came into view. We could hear some cascades off into the woods, and further down the trail a sizeable falls and slide through a unique chasm in the bedrock, just off the trail.
We then turned left onto the yellow Little Cherry Run Trail. This beautiful trail is a pleasure to hike as we passed grottos with cascades, rapids and pools in a rugged gorge. There are two footbridges. As we left the creek, an obvious but unmarked trail was to the right. This is the unofficial Hall of Hemlocks trail; an excellent hike with corridors of deep hemlocks at the tops of ledges with partial views. This trail takes hikers out to The Meadows along Mountain Springs Road.
We continued on the Little Cherry Run Trail as it explored the top of the plateau with more hemlocks and meandering streams. Some sections of this trail were very wet. We reached the red Cherry Run Trail and turned left. This trail took us back to the Lack Leigh dam, where we retraced our steps.
This hike is 5-6 miles long, and we parked at 41.338772, -76.279693.
View this post on InstagramA post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Dec 15, 2019 at 1:14pm PST
View this post on InstagramA post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Dec 15, 2019 at 1:29pm PST
View this post on InstagramA trail of Autumn in a world of Winter.
A post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Dec 15, 2019 at 1:34pm PST
View this post on InstagramA unique chasm waterfall on Bowmans Creek just off the Mountain Springs Trail.
A post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Dec 15, 2019 at 1:45pm PST
View this post on InstagramA post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Dec 15, 2019 at 1:52pm PST
View this post on InstagramAlong the Little Cherry Run Trail.
A post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Dec 15, 2019 at 6:20pm PST
View this post on InstagramA post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Dec 15, 2019 at 6:22pm PST
View this post on InstagramHiking back on a snow dusted Cherry Run Trail.
A post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Dec 15, 2019 at 6:26pm PST
View this post on InstagramFrozen vernal pool off the Cherry Run Trail.
A post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Dec 15, 2019 at 6:28pm PST
View this post on InstagramThe breached dam of the former Lake Leigh dusted with snow.
A post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Nov 24, 2019 at 11:58am PST
December 17, 2019
Hike to Mokoma Falls-SGL 13
This hike leads to a little known falls in SGL 13. I called it Mokoma Falls due to its proximity to Lake Mokoma, and access is through land owned by the Mokoma Conservancy. However, the falls is on Elklick Run. As this run already has an Elklick Falls, located further downstream on private land, I had to use another name. Mokoma Falls is not very tall, twelve feet at most, but it is located in a primeval, isolated setting. The falls are framed by giant hemlocks and is located in a glen with cascades and more hemlocks, some of which are old growth. It is a very beautiful place.
To begin the hike, use the Mokoma Conservancy trails to reach the pipeline swath. At the swath you have two choices, follow the swath south or use game commission roads to the east, which is longer but offers easier hiking. I took the swath south.
I reached a private property line and had to go into the woods to stay on the game lands. There might be a discernable trail along the property line. I descended to and crossed Conklin Run and begin an uphill climb. I returned to the pipeline swath where it crossed back into the gamelands. I then followed the swath downhill to Elklick Run. At the run, I turned left off the swath and into the woods, off trail. The creek was scenic, as were the hemlock forests. I stayed on the north side of the creek, the woods weren’t very thick. I hiked in a beautiful hemlock forest and circled around a wetland, offering some nice scenery. I crossed Elklick Run and picked up an old grade in a beautiful hemlock shaded glen. I enjoyed a six foot falls and just downstream in a grotto was Mokoma Falls. I enjoyed the beauty of this gorge, amazed by the towering hemlocks.
I hiked further downstream, and to the gorge to the east, but it is not worth it. The gorge to the east has some cascades and pools, but there is extensive flood damage. It is best to retrace your steps from Mokoma Falls.
I parked at 41.420483, -76.480950. The hike is about 4-5 miles one way. For the map above, brown are the trails on the Mokoma Conservancy, red is off trail, yellow is an old grade. No trails on the pipeline swath or SGL 13 are blazed or have signs.
View this post on InstagramMokoma Falls in it's grotto of ancient hemlocks. SGL 13.
A post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Dec 7, 2019 at 3:14pm PST
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View this post on InstagramSmaller falls above Mokoma Falls. SGL 13. Total isolation.
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December 10, 2019
Hike the Conklin Run Wilderness Area-Mokoma Conservancy
The Mokoma Conservancy owns the Conklin Run Wilderness Area, a preserve that is open to the public. This little known hiking destination is located near Laporte and features a nice trail system. All trails are blazed tan, and most trail junctures have signs. At other junctures you will have to pay attention to the map and blazes. The terrain is level to rolling, and some trails follow old grades and roads. Overall, the trails are well established and are easy to follow.
The most scenic areas of the preserve are the northern and southern ends. Do not miss the hike along Conklin Run, Sand Run, or Found Lake. These areas feature streams, wetlands, a pond, and beautiful hemlock forests. The other areas of the preserve feature hardwoods. You will also see forest management, such as deer fences and selective logging. The preserve is also located near some homes, so you will be near a few as you hike. Please do not be a disturbance.
There is a pull off parking area along Lake Road. Walk up the road to a gate and sign for the conservancy. Hike around the gate and follow the old woods road. Soon, turn right onto the Conklin Run Trail. This is a beautiful trail as you explore a hemlock forest along the clear babbling stream. Climb away from the creek into a forest of beech. Make a right onto Old Glassworks Rd. and follow for a quarter mile. Then make a second right on Old Glassworks Rd. Here, the forests continue to be hardwoods with beech. Reach the pipeline swath and turn left. Re-enter the woods on an old grade and hike along a deer fence. This is now Plank Road, which gradually descends. At a “T” intersection, continue straight on Plank Rd.
The scenery improves with hemlock forests. Turn right onto Sand Run Trail and enter a beautiful area with hemlocks, ground pine, and moss along a wetland. In places, the trail tunnels through the green hemlocks. Reach a trail intersection, go right and reach Sand Run. Before crossing the run, look for a trail to your left as it will be part of your return route. Cross Sand Run on stones and walk up some stone steps. Turn right to begin a mini-loop featuring more hemlocks, blueberry, and laurel. Reach a short side trail to the right that goes to a viewing platform at Found Lake, a beautiful serene, spot. This is an ideal place to birdwatching and photographer. Continue on the mini-loop and return to Sand Run, cross the creek again, and now turn right on the trail mentioned previously. This trail explores more hemlocks along Sand Run. Turn left onto the Beechnut Trail. The trail becomes hillier and a little rocky and passes behind some houses. Avoid any trail to the left. The trail also passes near a logged area. Continue through scenic woodlands and then descend to the old woods road you first hiked in on. Turn right and return to your car.
For the map above, the dashed trail is an ideal cross connector to see the most scenic areas of the preserve. The entire loop described above is about 3.5 miles. Pull off parking is at about 41.420487, -76.480929.
View this post on InstagramConklin Run Trail, Mokoma Conservancy, Laporte.
A post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Dec 7, 2019 at 4:09pm PST
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View this post on InstagramViewing platform at Found Lake. Beautiful spot. Mokoma Conservancy, Laporte.
A post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Dec 7, 2019 at 4:28pm PST
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December 6, 2019
Hike to Phillips Creek Vista-Ricketts Glen State Park
I recently lead a hike to the Phillips Creek Vista on the east side of Ricketts Glen State Park. This beautiful view looks over the gorge of Phillips Creek, complete with a small lake, and the foothills and Pocono plateau in the distance. It is one of the finest vistas in the park. Keep in mind that more than a third of this hike is off trail and you should be an experienced hiker to navigate. Also note the vista is at some cliffs and steep slopes, so care is required. The more challenging part of the hike is finding a way through the thick mountain laurel. Don’t be intimidated, there is a way through.
The hike starts out easy. Park at the Beach Lot #2 parking area near the cabins, and hike the trail to the Falls Trail around the cabin area. Where the Falls Trail goes right, turn left and hike below the old Lake Leigh Dam. Here, turn right onto the Mountain Springs Trail, there is a waterfall below you on the right. Hike for .75 mile under scenic hemlocks and turn right onto the Old Bulldozer Road Trail. Pass an open meadow to the right with remnants of an old spring. Hike this trail for just over a half mile and climb gradually.
You will leave the Old Bulldozer Road Trail to the left/east, off trail, when you reach a mountain laurel thicket. This thicket is large and dominates the forest understory; it is easy to notice. Follow the perimeter of the thicket, passing some hemlocks, and descending gradually. After a half mile, keep your eyes out for the white blazes of the old state park boundary at a wet area. This can be easy to miss. Turn right and follow the white markers. At first the trail is wet, but becomes better established and is an easy way through the impenetrable laurel. The laurel recedes and the forest opens. Leave the boundary markers and proceed off trail to the left, or east, through open forest for about .4 mile. Descend to the edge of the plateau where low brush begins to grow. Keep near the edge, above a gorge, when the laurel returns. Thankfully, there are bear paths that make the hiking a bit easier. Follow the paths east.
As you work your away around the edge of the plateau, you will notice some rock outcrops and a pedestal rock, this is Phillips Creek Vista. There are three outcrops. To go from one to the other, climb into the laurel, because there is a very steep slope between two of the outcrops. The view is located at about 41.322398, -76.238516. Again, be careful. After enjoying the views, which stretch for about 40 miles, return the way you came. This hike is 4-5 miles, one way.
On our hike, we took a different way to the vista. We came in from the north. While there was a beautiful stream and some large hemlocks, I would not recommend that way due to the thick laurel we had to battle through to reach the vista. The best way is the one described above. We did this hike on the tail end of a snow storm, creating a stunning winter wonderland through the forests.
A Fall hike to the vista is described here. Parking is at 41.338819, -76.279642.
View this post on InstagramWinter wonderland on top of the mountain at Ricketts Glen State Park.
A post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Nov 24, 2019 at 11:55am PST
View this post on InstagramThe breached dam of the former Lake Leigh dusted with snow.
A post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Nov 24, 2019 at 11:58am PST
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View this post on InstagramA stream through the snowy hemlock forests.
A post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Nov 24, 2019 at 12:14pm PST
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View this post on InstagramTyler enjoying the view over Phillips Creek, Ricketts Glen State Park.
A post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Nov 24, 2019 at 12:50pm PST
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View this post on InstagramA view from within. Phillips Creek vista.
A post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Nov 25, 2019 at 3:05pm PST
View this post on InstagramAn arctic view over Phillips Creek.
A post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Nov 25, 2019 at 3:10pm PST
View this post on InstagramA post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Dec 2, 2019 at 10:06am PST
December 3, 2019
Hike to Valley View-Ricketts Glen State Park
Ricketts Glen has a new trail and vista, called Valley View, and it is located off of the Old Bulldozer Road Trail. In some sense Valley View isn’t new; old park maps from twenty or more years ago show a Valley View on the Old Bulldozer Road Trail, however that location was different from the present Valley View. It is easy to find Valley View, however, the hike does require a vigorous climb.
From the PA 118 parking area, you can start from either of two places. The red Old Bulldozer Road Trail begins at the end of the parking area near the kiosk and restrooms. Or you can begin from the middle of the parking area at a sign and an orange marked trail for snowmobiles. We started in the middle and followed the orange trail under large hemlocks to the red Old Bulldozer Road Trail, on which you will turn right. Continue to hike under large hemlocks and pines, some of these trees are over a hundred feet tall. Enter more open hardwoods where the trail splits. To the left, the trail goes to the Falls Trail. However, we went right and continued on the red trail as it began its climb.
And climb we did. We went up a fairly steep slope, which leveled off, and then a second steeper climb under some rock outcrops with even a small natural arch. We reached the top of the plateau with some hemlocks and the terrain leveled off. There were oaks and mountain laurel, making this an ideal hike in late June when the laurel blooms. We then reached a sign for Valley View and we turned right onto the yellow blazed trail.
The yellow trail meandered through the open woods and soon reached the edge of the plateau. The view soon appeared. We could see over 40 miles from a rock outcrop, across foothills, small valleys, and tiers of distant ridges. The water gap at Shickshinny is clearly seen. It is a beautiful view. This is a good view for sunrises. Some yellow blazes continued past the view, but then just ended. A private property line is nearby.
From the view, we just retraced our steps back down the mountain. It is nice to see Ricketts Glen expanding its trail system. With the Falls Trail closed every winter, it is good to have other hiking destinations in the park.
We parked at 41.300619, -76.272082. This hike is about 2 miles, one way. It is a 900 foot vertical climb to the view.
View this post on InstagramHiked the new trail at Ricketts Glen to Valley View. Very nice 40 mile vista.
A post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Nov 30, 2019 at 12:41pm PST
View this post on InstagramEndless ridges from Valley View, Ricketts Glen State Park.
A post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Nov 30, 2019 at 12:48pm PST
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View this post on InstagramGiant pine trees. Ricketts Glen State Park.
A post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Nov 30, 2019 at 1:06pm PST
View this post on InstagramBetter than a mall. Ricketts Glen State Park.
A post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Nov 30, 2019 at 1:11pm PST
December 2, 2019
Fork Hill Boulder City and Cliffs-Tioga State Forest
I enjoy exploring giant rocks and cliffs. Such places have a primeval feel with the draperies of moss, lichens, and ferns, and they often harbor unique ecosystems and habitats as they tend to hold or trap colder air. An area of these giant rocks came to my attention in the Tioga State Forest, above Stony Fork, on a mountain called Fork Hill. I parked off of Clay Mine Road to check them out. I then walked down the road as it began to descend to Stony Fork. Where some large rocks abutted the road, I first headed to the north, or my left.
I walked along some giant rocks that grew into the size of cliffs. I really enjoyed a 30 foot tall monolith capped with ferns and some hemlocks. Nearby were giant cliffs and a cave-like overhang. North of here the rocks appeared to recede in size, so I retraced my steps south back to Clay Mine Road, crossed it, and headed south along the rocks.
I was soon treated to some mossy passageways between some lower ledges. Heading south, the rocks grew in size, creating impressive boulder cities and mazes. These rocks towered 30-50 feet. It was fascinating to walk between the giants and explore the various passages. I continued south with some large cliffs and overhangs with small caves and crevices. This stretch of giant rocks is one of the most impressive in the PA Wilds.
I then reached a valley of sorts where the rocks were smaller and broken down. I crossed a small runoff stream and stayed above the ledges to avoid some thick laurel. I reached a pine forest and more giant rocks, included a massive overhang with a pointed ledge. My exploration ended with an impressive long chasm with a passageway about a hundred or so feet long. From here, I hiked off trail in a westerly direction through the woods to a forest road. While there was some laurel, the woods were mostly open and the hiking was fairly easy. I reached a dirt forest road. I turned right and headed back to my car.
I parked at 41.596717, -77.367790. Keep in mind this parking area is not accessible when there is snow or ice, and there is no bridge where Clay Mine Road crosses Stony Fork. On the map, the dashed black lines are the smaller or broken down rocks. Solid black lines are the larger cliffs and boulders.
View this post on InstagramA post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Nov 22, 2019 at 4:40pm PST
View this post on InstagramUnique rock formation in the Fork Hill boulder city. Tioga State Forest.
A post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Nov 22, 2019 at 4:49pm PST
View this post on InstagramA post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Nov 22, 2019 at 4:55pm PST
View this post on InstagramThe cliffs and boulders at Fork Hill ended at this long chasm. Tioga State Forest.
A post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Nov 22, 2019 at 4:59pm PST
View this post on InstagramExploring the mazes in the Fork Hill boulder city. Tioga State Forest.
A post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Nov 22, 2019 at 5:34pm PST
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November 25, 2019
Stony Fork Loop-Mid State Trail
Stony Fork is one of the most scenic places in the Tioga State Forest. This is a stream of exceptional beauty with cascades, slides, grottos, and deep aquamarine pools. One of the highlights of this creek is the color of its water. In summer, two of the pools are very popular on weekends. The Mid State Trail (MST) follows Stony Fork, revealing its sublime beauty. If you don’t mind a stretch of pleasant road walking, there is a fine loop you can hike. This is also an excellent summertime hike with all the pools to go swimming or wading.
In order to split up the roadwalk, park at about 41.596694, -77.367806. Hike out to Clay Mine Road, and head right to go downhill. This is a scenic, and lightly traveled, gravel road with forest cover. You will pass a seasonal stream with cascades when it is flowing. Reach the bottom at a small parking area. Turn left onto a yellow trail and begin your hike up Stony Brook. The yellow trail keeps its distance from the stream, but features hemlock forests. Reach the orange MST, which will be your route for the remainder of the hike back to the road.
The MST stays closer to Stony Fork and you can see the rapids, cascades, and pools from the trail. The scenery is impressive, and nonstop, as the trail goes from one grotto to another. The creek has sculpted the bedrock into smooth, waterworn ledges. Take your time along Stony Fork, the scenery demands it. The MST climbs away from the creek, but then returns to it, with more pools, rapids, and grottos of smooth ledges. The trail is often under hemlocks, enhancing the scenery of this place.
Reach Mossy Run and the MST turns left to begin the climb. This is a small creek that can dry in summer. When it is flowing, you will be treated to many cascades and falls over mossy bedrock. It is quite beautiful. Reach the top with hemlocks and meander through giant boulders and rocks draped with moss, lichens, and ferns. Reach a trail register, and soon after, Clay Mine Road. The MST continued south across the road. A parking area is a couple hundred feet to the right. To complete the loop, walk the road to your left back to the parking area and your car.
This loop is 4-5 miles long. The blue dots on the map indicate falls, cascades, rapids, slides, or pools. “P” are other parking areas.
View this post on InstagramStony Fork is a beautiful stream. The Mid State Trail follows it. Tioga State Forest.
A post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Nov 23, 2019 at 5:09am PST
View this post on InstagramStony Fork along the Mid State Trail, Tioga State Forest.
A post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Nov 23, 2019 at 5:11am PST
View this post on InstagramA post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Nov 23, 2019 at 5:15am PST
View this post on InstagramRope swings retired for the season. Stony Fork, Mid State Trail, Tioga State Forest.
A post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Nov 23, 2019 at 5:18am PST
View this post on InstagramStony Fork, Mid State Trail, Tioga State Forest. The PA Wilds are special.
A post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Nov 23, 2019 at 5:23am PST
November 21, 2019
Cold Run and Canyon Vista Loop-Worlds End State Park
One of the finest dayhikes is along the Cold Run and Canyon Vista Trails at Worlds End State Park. This loop is about 5.5 miles long and features superb scenery and diversity. Along this sublime route you will find waterfalls, vistas, chasms, a boulder arch, giant rocks, and streamside hiking along the pristine Loyalsock Creek. This is simply a loop you need to hike.
You can thank Warren Renninger for this amazing hike. He planned and built the Cold Run Trail, and he extensively rebuilt and re-routed the Canyon Vista Trail to avoid wet areas and improve the scenery. He volunteered countless hours to make these trails a reality, and they are an absolute pleasure to hike. These trails are beautifully benched as they explore ledges, cascades, and waterfalls. Volunteers make trails happen in PA. It is imperative that every hiker volunteer at least a few hours every year maintaining and building trails.
From the Canyon Vista Trail parking area along PA 154, follow the blue trail to a sign and the start of the loop. Turn left, you will be completing this hike to the right. The trail crosses PA 154 and begins a steady climb up the mountain along an old, narrow grade with ferns and hardwoods. You will soon reach a juncture on the yellow Cold Run Trail, turn left onto this trail, which is a 1.5 mile trail that will reconnect to the blue Canyon Vista Trail further up the mountain.
The Cold Run Trail is a gorgeous trail. Climb gradually to a nice view from a meadow looking up the Loyalsock Creek. Drop down to Cold Run and enjoy its various waterfalls and cascades. If there is plenty of water, Cold Run is impressive. Cross the creek along some cascades and reach the other branch of Cold Run. Climb to the top of the plateau with hemlocks and streams, including views of the top of another falls. The trail continues to Cold Run with some streamside hiking and small cascades. Follow an old forest road and then climb up to an impressive section of giant boulders, cliffs, chasms and a boulder arch. Reach the top of the plateau and then drop down to more giant boulders, draped with moss. Reach the blue Canyon Vista Trail, on which you will turn left.
Enjoy more giant rocks and chasms. The rocks recede and hike through a hardwood forest. Reach a drainage where Warren has rebuilt the trail to showcase some seasonal cascades. Cross the Loyalsock Trail and climb to a meadow area. Cross a gravel road and continue on the blue Canyon Vista Trail. Hike along some more ledges and boulders. The trail crosses the gravel road again and reaches famous Canyon Vista. Enjoy the beautiful view.
The Canyon Vista Trail descends gradually along sidehill and levels off, where it turns right. This section used to be notoriously wet and boggy. Warren, however, rebuilt the trail closer to the edge of the plateau, featuring a small view, ledges, a small cascade, and drier footpath. It was a beautiful walk. Reach a small rock maze and then Warren’s Window, a fine view of the state park. The trail is level for a bit, but then descends to the campground area. Pass through the entrance of the campground and cross PA 154.
I love this last section, which features streamside hiking along the beautiful Loyalsock Creek with its rapids, cliffs, and scenery. In low water during the summer, this is an ideal place for a swim. In high water, enjoy the rapids and you may even see whitewater kayakers paddle by. While PA 154 is close, the hemlocks and streamside hiking make this a very enjoyable hike. Reach the end of the loop and return to your car. I love Worlds End State Park.
One of the highlights of this hike are its many waterfalls and cascades, but they are located along small streams. For the best waterfall display, the Loyalsock Creek gauge should be 2.5 feet or higher, as a rough correlation.
We parked at about 41.469020, -76.563345.
View this post on InstagramA post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Nov 17, 2019 at 2:24pm PST
View this post on InstagramA post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Nov 17, 2019 at 2:35pm PST
View this post on InstagramCanyon Vista Trail along the Loyalsock Creek.
A post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Nov 17, 2019 at 2:53pm PST
View this post on InstagramCrouching through the boulder arch, Cold Run Trail.
A post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Nov 17, 2019 at 3:05pm PST
November 15, 2019
Hike to Lost Falls-SGL 140
About a half hour drive from the famous waterfalls at Salt Springs State Park is another, little-known falls in SGL 140. It is called Lost Falls, and it’s a beauty. I’m not sure why the falls received this name. This hike is very short. Simply park along Turnpike Road at a pull off, and walk up Apalachin Creek a couple hundred feet. There is no trail, signs, or blazes. Hike along the creek as best you can, and soon Lost Falls appears. It is about 12 feet tall and features a beautiful gown of descending water into a pool. After enjoying the falls, return the way you came. The gorge continues upstream and I wonder if there may be more falls or cascades, but I have not explored above Lost Falls.
The creek runs most of the year due to swamps at its headwaters, but you can expect it to be a trickle in summer. In mid to late October, the beech trees explode with color, making it an ideal time to visit. This area is quite scenic with its rugged hills and narrow stream valleys.
Pull off parking is at 41.943402, -76.082908.
View this post on InstagramIt's easy to find Lost Falls, a 13 foot beauty that's a short hike up from SR 4014 in SGL 140.
A post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Oct 27, 2019 at 5:33pm PDT
View this post on InstagramThis sure has been a beautiful Fall. Downstream from Lost Falls, SGL 140.
A post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Oct 28, 2019 at 1:13pm PDT
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