Jeff Mitchell's Blog, page 20
October 23, 2019
Hike to Coyote Rocks-SGL 57
A superb hike to a fine view, Coyote Rocks should be on your list. Coyote Rocks rises almost 500 vertical feet above Bowmans Creek, offering beautiful untouched views with no signs of development. The trails are unblazed and do not have signs, but are well established and easy to follow. This hike is a little under 2 miles, one way.
From the parking area, follow the road to the right and cross over Wolf Run. Turn right onto the trail as it cuts through a meadow with pickers. The trail then enters the woods and follows an obvious grade. The trail is easy to follow and scenic with hardwood forests and ground pine. As you climb, Wolf Run is closer to the trail with cascades, and boulders adorn the forest to the left. The trail levels off.
The trail continues straight, but you will want to turn right. This turn can be easy to miss, but there is a small cairn to mark the intersection. Cross Wolf Run. The trail meanders through the forest with rolling terrain. The forest is mostly beech with ground pine and it makes for a scenic hike. The trail descends slightly into a depression or small valley and then veers to the edge of the plateau with mountain laurel. Coyote Rocks are just ahead.
The view is from a cliff that looks west into Ricketts Glen, making this an ideal sunset vista. The view is about 180 degrees and features vast forests and broad plateaus. I’d love to see this view sometime when there is mist or fog in the valley below. The trail continues to Beth Run or Cider Run Ledges. Return the way you came. Be sure to wear orange during hunting seasons.
Parking is at 41.353053, -76.194306.
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October 22, 2019
Kayaking the Susquehanna River-Falls to Plymouth
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This summer I had the chance to kayak the Susquehanna River from Falls to Plymouth, a distance of about 22 miles. As I don’t kayak as much as I used to, it was great to get on the water for an extended period of time. The water level was a little higher than normal and at first we made very good time. The river from Falls to Harding was very scenic, with towering mountains and cliffs, and islands. The river felt quite isolated. We saw a few bald eagles, numerous herons, and ducks. We took a break at one island as thin veils of mist evaporated into the sky.
We continued downstream to Pittston and passed under imposing stone bridges. Several people were fishing below the bridges. I wasn’t looking forward to the section through the Wyoming Valley, but I was very pleasantly surprised. The river was scenic, pretty clean, and remarkable natural and isolated. We paddled along islands, homes, and businesses. Yet, it was very quiet on the river. The river teemed with life, whether it be birds or fish. The only drawback was a steady headwind we encountered.
As we paddled we came across another kayaker. He was surprised to see us and said few people seem to paddle this section of the river. He pointed out some landmarks along the river, notably the site of the Knox Mine disaster. He soon went another way around an island and we separated. I became impressed by the scenery of the river near Wilkes-Barre. Islands were cloaked in thick forests with giant trees. Fish lept in the riffles. Bicyclists zipped by on a bike trail above us. Was this Wilkes-Barre? Any sounds of traffic were muted. I couldn’t believe how the river seemed largely ignored, if not forgotten.
We paddled by Wilkes-Barre, which looked like a beautiful city from the river. Again, from the river this area seemed serene. We continued on, leaving the city, and the river appeared to be in a more natural state. Bridges still crossed once in a while, but concrete and brick ruins in the forest soon captured our attention.
As we neared Plymouth, we took the channel to the right and enjoyed some faster water under the Carey Avenue bridge. This culminated into a rapid over a ledge that provided some excitement. An old factory with a towering smokestack loomed above us. We dragged our boats up to Bridge Street.
I was impressed by the beauty of this river in places where you would least expect it. Take some time and explore it for yourself.
Put in: 41.459804, -75.853124
Take out: 41.241013, -75.934849
View this post on Instagram22 miles on the Susquehanna River, Falls to Plymouth.
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View this post on InstagramSusquehanna reflections. Paddled from Falls to Plymouth.
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View this post on InstagramSusquehanna morning. Falls to Plymouth.
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View this post on InstagramPaddling through Wilkes Barre. Falls to Plymouth.
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October 21, 2019
C.L. Johnson Memorial and Goodman Hollow Vistas-Sproul State Forest
Sproul State Forest’s Grugan Hollow road has a number of little known vistas. One is the Garby Trail Vista, but there is also the C.L. Johnson Memorial Vista and the Goodman Hollow Vista. Both are short walks from the road; there are no blazes.
C.L. Johnson Memorial Vista is the easier of the two to find. Pull off along the road and walk a couple hundred feet to the vista where there is a sign. The short trail is not blazed. The vista is very scenic, offering a broad panorama, and is good for sunsets. I particularly liked the symmetrical tiers of ridges to the left.
C.L. Johnson Memorial Vista is located at about 41.294537, -77.663196.
The other vista, Goodman Hollow Vista, is a little harder to find. Pull off where you see the broken sign for Schoolhouse Hollow Trail; besides the sign, there is no other indication of a trail. Walk down the obvious grade to an old gate. At the gate, turn right, following a faint, unblazed trail to a fern meadow that looks down the bowl of Goodman Hollow. I do not know if this is the actual name of the vista, as there is no sign for it. I really enjoyed this view as it looked across the West Branch Susquehanna River to the vast plateaus in the north. I could also see Hyner View across the river. While crowds were at Hyner View, I had this one all to myself.
Goodman Hollow Vista is located at about 41.295872, -77.656166.
There is so much beauty in the PA Wilds. See it for yourself.
View this post on InstagramBig views from the CL Johnson Memorial Vista, Sproul State Forest. Go there.
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Hiking at the Lacawac Sanctuary
Lake Lacawac is a gem of the Poconos. The sanctuary was created in 1966 and the lake was recognized as a National Natural Landmark in 1968; it is claimed to be the most southern unpolluted glacial lake in North America. The lake is known for its water purity and is used for research and studies. The sanctuary is also home to a visitor center and a network of trails that make for enjoyable hiking. You will also see the Watres Lodge and several other buildings that are still in use; the lodge was once the residence of the Watres family and was styled after the great Adirondack lodges. These buildings are on the National Register of Historic Places.
My hike was about six miles, and the trails are a little convoluted, but are generally easy to follow. You will have to watch for turns. There are also some additional trails not on the map above. Hiking may be restricted during hunting season. Donations are suggested, but not required.
From the visitor center, I crossed the road and followed LL, the Lake Lacawac Spur. This trail was easy with rolling terrain, diverse forests, pine trees, some ledges and rhododendrons. I walked to the boardwalk for some nice views of the lake, and continued on to R, Rhododendron Trail. As expected, there were rhododendron thickets along this trail and then I turned left onto GC, Great Camp Trail, which is a dirt road. Next was C, the Carriage Trail which explored a hemlock forest and leads to a dock for the finest views of the lake, don’t miss it. Next I followed LF, Lakefront Trail as it passed an old pump house and spring. This trail has been dramatically extended all the way to the northeast corner of the lake. I suggest you hike it. It is a beautiful trail with views of the lake and some large hemlocks. There is even a view over the water at the northeast corner. Return the way you came. Avoid the W, Warbler Trail, it really isn’t worth hiking.
Hike up to the Lodge and follow the road, passing the various buildings, which have signs explaining the history. It is fascinating. Turn onto O, Osprey Trail and then turn right at the T intersection. Enjoy fine views of Heron Pond. Turn left onto AW, A. Watres Trail, and then left onto BL, Big Lake Trail, which follow old carriage paths. Walk along the south side of Heron Pond, enjoying the views. Turn right onto L, Ledges Trail. It isn’t worth going to Ledges Overlook, as it is grown over with no view. Continue on L through scenic forests and some rock outcrops to MB, Maurice Broun Trail as it traverses the top of ledges and explores hardwoods with some hemlocks. Again, there is no view at Broun Overlook. I then hiked PR, Partner Ridge Trail, which is a small loop with some rock outcrops and hemlock forests. I then continued on MB as it climbed and wrapped around a meadow back to the visitor center.
I enjoyed my hike at Lake Lacawac as it offers a blend of history and scenery. The lake is the highlight, although I found Heron Pond to be scenic as well. When I visit again, I’ll be sure to take BL, Big Lake Trail, down to the shore of Lake Wallenpaupack.
I parked at 41.376777, -75.299868.
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View this post on InstagramLake Lacawac is beautiful and is home to diverse and rare species.
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View this post on InstagramHeron Pond, Lacawac Sanctuary.
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October 10, 2019
Hiking the Mosquito Creek Gorge-Quehanna Wild Area
The Quehanna Wild Area is an outdoors wonderland just waiting to be discovered. Jodi and Michael invited me along for a backpacking overnight to explore the Mosquito Creek Gorge. Hiking off trail up the gorge had been something I’ve wanted to do, so I was glad to accept. This gorge promised to have extensive rapids and house sized boulders.
I drove out, parked at Reactor Road and hiked in along the Meeker Trail. I reached the campsite at evening, and saw their tent in a grove of hemlocks. A beautiful site. Nearby, along Meeker Run, another group of backpackers were camping. We enjoyed a fire and the incredible display of stars above.
We got up the next morning, leaving our tents, and shouldered our packs for our hike, which would be about ten miles. We began by hiking down the Meeker Trail to Meeker Run, and then took the East Cross Connector south. This is a great trail with beautiful forests, big boulders, and some cascades in Meeker Run. We reached the road, hiked it south to Mosquito Creek, passing more hikers. Once we reached Mosquito Creek, we left the road, and began our off trail hike upstream.
We soon saw the remnants of an old splash dam, used by logging companies a century ago to release water to send the logs downstream. We hiked along meadows with flowers and avoided wet areas and beaver marshes. We soon noticed a distinct rock wall along the creek; it appeared some kind of water diversion dike for the splash dam. As we hiked upstream, the gorge began to close in with massive boulders and rapids. We also saw some deep pools. The terrain was tiring, but very beautiful. In high water, this creek will have a lot of rapids. As we hiked north, the gorge opened up, but the creek was as beautiful. Its streambed studded with sandstone boulders. We saw another rock wall; likely another diversion dike. Fern meadows and large hardwoods covered the slopes above the creek. We entered a grove with giant white pine trees above more rapids and giant boulders. This place felt so primeval.
We soon reached the Bridge Trail and took a break. We followed the Bridge Trail north across vast meadows with bleached white boulders in the distance. As we hiked we saw something odd-white meadows in the distance. We soon saw the reason why-incredible, vast blooms of cottongrass. Cottongrass grows in colder, wet areas and blooms in late summer. The blooms were impressive. We couldn’t believe it. (I mistakenly called it snowgrass in the pictures below).
We continued our hike along meadows with more cottongrass superblooms. We hiked under pine and tamarack, and through beech forests. We returned to our campsite, packed up, and hiked out to the cars.
The Quehanna is a special place and I’m looking forward to my next visit.
We parked at 41.228493, -78.213383. Do not hike along Mosquito Creek in high water as it becomes a powerful and dangerous whitewater river.
View this post on InstagramIncredible snowgrass superbloom along the Bridge Trail, Quehanna Wild Area. Get up there to see it.
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View this post on InstagramEast Cross Connector Trail, Quehanna Wild Area.
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View this post on InstagramSmall waterfall on Meeker Run, Quehanna Wild Area.
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View this post on InstagramMeeker Trail is beautiful, Quehanna Wild Area.
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View this post on InstagramCool rock formations along Quehanna East Cross Connector Trail, Quehanna Wild Area.
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View this post on InstagramMosquito Creek is one wild, rugged, beautiful stream filled with large boulders. Quehanna Wild Area.
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View this post on InstagramBridge over Mosquito Creek, Quehanna Wild Area.
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View this post on InstagramJodi enjoying the meadows of snowgrass blooms. Quehanna Wild Area.
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View this post on InstagramWalking up beautiful Mosquito Creek. Quehanna Wild Area.
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View this post on InstagramMosquito Creek as it flows through one of the many meadows in the Quehanna Wild Area.
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View this post on InstagramBridge Trail crosses the vast meadows above Mosquito Creek, Quehanna Wild Area.
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View this post on InstagramJodi and Michael cross the meadows on the Bridge Trail, Quehanna Wild Area.
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October 9, 2019
Vistas of the Rough Hill Trail-Loyalsock State Forest
The Rough Hill Trail is a relatively new two mile lollipop loop in the Loyalsock State Forest. This superb trail explores hemlock forests, ledges, cliffs, laurel, and features two fine vistas. The upper vista is particularly impressive. The trail was designed and constructed by Matt Crosbie, a recreational forester with DCNR. It is moderately challenging. Click here for a map and guide.
From the parking area at the Sandy Bottom Recreation Area, follow the yellow blazes down an old forest road. Watch for a discreet right turn off of the old forest road and into the woods. Hike through the woods with vernal pools, small fern meadows, and under some large tulip poplar trees. Begin to climb PA 87 and cross the road. Watch for traffic. The trail explores a pine forest and begins a larger climb up a slope with loose rock. The terrain eases with ledges and hemlocks. Take a short side trail to the lower vista, offering a fine view across the valley and the towering forested ridges.
Return to the trail and continue uphill under scenic forests. Reach the start of the loop. I usually go left, or straight, but this time we went right. The terrain was rocky followed by a steep climb to some ledges and cliffs. The trail turned left at the top and followed the escarpment of cliffs with laurel and pine. The pine was aromatic in the warm sun. We then reached the view.
The upper vista is stunning as it looks over the winding Loyalsock Creek valley with forested ridges and plateaus. The distinctive peak of Smiths Knob rises in the distance. The view is largely undeveloped and is one of the finest in the area. It is ideal for sunsets. We sat at the view for a while, and saw seven bald eagles soaring over the Loyalsock Creek. We continued on the loop, descended on an old skid trail, and then retraced our steps.
While at Sandy Bottom, hike out on the old forest road for views of the creek and the mountains that rise over one thousand feet above it, creating a canyon-like setting. This is a truly beautiful area. Want to hike to another nearby view? Check out Sandy Bottom Vista in the gamelands to the north, it is an easier hike, although it is off trail. There is a unique pedestal rock at that vista.
We parked at 41.397418, -76.759289.
View this post on InstagramPA 87 through the Loyalsock State Forest.
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View this post on InstagramLower vista on the Rough Hill Trail, Loyalsock State Forest.
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View this post on InstagramIncredible views from the Rough Hill Trail, Loyalsock State Forest.
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View this post on InstagramGrandeur of the Loyalsock State Forest. Rough Hill Trail. Get out there.
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View this post on InstagramTake it all in. Rough Hill Trail, Loyalsock State Forest.
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October 7, 2019
Garby Trail Vista-Sproul State Forest
The Garby Trail is a little known trail that connects the Donut Hole and Chuck Keiper Trails. It is blazed yellow. Despite its lack of footsteps, the Garby Trail has some nice scenery. In particular, there is a fine vista located less than a mile north of Grugan Hollow Road in the Sproul State Forest. While many hikes I describe are off trail, this one follows a blazed trail, and it is an easy, enjoyable hike.
Begin at Grugan Hollow Road where there is pull off parking for about two cars. Follow a jeep road with yellow blazes and head north, this is the Garby Trail. This jeep road also serves as a snowmobile trail. The road explores a scenic forest of hardwoods and pine. The road begins to make a slight incline. Watch for where the road bends left; the Garby Trail leaves it to the right. This turn can be easy to miss. There are blazes, but the trail is faint.
You will soon reach the vista, an opening in the trees from a meadow that looks east. This would be a great vista for sunrises. The view is beautiful as it looks over to a broad plateau and the river valley to the left. You can also see over the right side of the plateau to the distant ridges of Bald Eagle State Forest, about 20-30 miles away. There are few signs of development, and you are almost guaranteed you will have this fine view all to yourself. Below is the gorge of Big McCloskey Run, which is 1,400 feet deep. Return the way you came.
The Garby Trail continues north, descends the ridge and reaches the Western Clinton County Sportsmans Association, crosses the Susquehanna River at the PA 120 bridge, and then climbs to the Donut Hole Trail. There many be another vista north of this one, but I am not sure.
The Sproul State Forest has numerous places of great beauty, whether it be unknown vistas or tumbling mountain streams in secret gorges. Grugan Hollow Road hosts several superb views and future posts will explore them.
Pull off parking is at about 41.297423, -77.682711. The hike is less than a mile, one way. The terrain is easy. Most of the hike follows a jeep road, but the last short section it is a trail that is faint. It is marked with yellow blazes.
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September 19, 2019
Hike to Boggs Run Vista-Sproul State Forest
Boggs Run has carved a canyon over 1,100 feet deep and several miles long into the Allegheny Plateau of the Sproul State Forest. On the east side of this canyon is a vista of remarkable beauty, one of the most scenic vistas in the PA Wilds. This view was previously undocumented; I suspected it existed due to an opening in the forest I could see on Google Earth. I decided to check it out. Sproul is Pennsylvania’s largest state forest, covering over 300,000 acres. It holds incredible hidden beauty with many off trail vistas, large rocks, gorges, spruce and pine forests, and waterfalls.
I parked along Grugan Hollow Road, where a jeep trail intersects from the north. The spot was marked by a tree with a pink paint mark. I then headed north on the jeep road, which is not blazed, or signed (yellow on the map). To my surprise, there was no gate blocking the jeep road. However, driving down it is not recommended. The jeep road descended into a saddle along the ridge, and then began to gently climb. Here, I left the road and hiked off trail to the left. I waded through low blueberries and enjoyed some partial vistas. I eventually picked up some old game or hunting trails, which made my hike easier. I continued along the edge of the plateau. The forest was mostly open, and there wasn’t any thick mountain laurel. As I hiked, I followed a trail that became more defined.
Clouds were lifting from the canyons and the forests were within veils of mist. I turned around to see the sun sending shafts of light, piercing through the forest. It was so beautiful. With my back to the sun, the light would illuminate the mist in front of me, creating an iridescent haze across the forest floor. I had to rub my eyes to make sure I was seeing right.
I reached a steep slope and descended; I had to watch for some loose rock. I then reached Boggs Run Vista. It was truly breathtaking. The vista reveals a 180 degree panorama of this narrow, rugged gorge surrounded by towering plateaus, ridges, and buttresses as the plateaus descend. Mist and clouds rose from within the canyon and then drifted away, revealing clear blue skies. To the north I could see for twenty miles or so. Far below I could hear Boggs Run flowing. A hawk screeched within the canyon. Monarch butterflies sailed south. Across the canyon there appeared to be another vista. I could see right up the canyon for several miles. Since this vista looks west, it is ideal for sunsets.
I loved how this vista is so wild and untouched. Hopefully, the Sproul State Forest will allow a trail be built to it to highlight the stunning beauty of the PA Wilds. I then retraced my steps back to my car, off to find some more vistas in the state forest.
This hike is about 1.5 miles one way, with the first half mile being on the jeep road. The terrain is easy to moderate; there are no huge climbs or descents. The dashed red route on the map above is for those who want to hike longer on the jeep road. The red route is off trail, but does follow old game or hunting trails, which become more defined as you near the vista.
The vista is located at 41.312722, -77.703006. Parking is located at about 41.295199, -77.689584. It is pull off parking and very limited, with space for no more than one or two cars. Do not block the jeep road; do not drive down the jeep road.
Boggs Run Vista is an amazing view that should be on any hikers list.
Photos and video:
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View this post on InstagramAbove the clouds. Boggs Run Vista, Sproul State Forest.
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View this post on InstagramMist lifting from the canyon. Boggs Run Vista, Sproul State Forest.
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View this post on InstagramBoggs Run Vista, 20 mile views. Sproul State Forest.
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View this post on InstagramI sat here for a while. Time well spent. Boggs Run Vista, Sproul State Forest.
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View this post on InstagramMighty PA Wilds plateaus and gorges. Boggs Run Vista, Sproul State Forest.
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September 18, 2019
Return to Ricketts Glen-Hiking the Falls Trail
Ricketts Glen is where I started hiking, years ago. Back then I was working two jobs, had no money, and found myself with an afternoon and nothing to do. Since I needed to find something inexpensive, I decided to check out Ricketts Glen, not quite knowing what to expect. I hiked up the Falls Trail and saw waterfall after waterfall. I couldn’t believe a place so beautiful was so close to home. I went back home, opened a map to look for my next destination. A few weeks later I went to Worlds End State Park.
I haven’t stopped since.
As the years passed, I’ve spent less time at Ricketts Glen. Years have gone by without me setting foot on the Falls Trail. I guess I’ve changed, and so has Ricketts Glen. Ricketts Glen has become a national, if not international, destination. The park now sees tour buses and throngs of people hike the iconic Falls Trail. I’ve turned to hiking off trail and seeing the state’s hidden beauty.
I returned this summer to hike the Falls Trail during an evening after work. The conditions were perfect. Lots of water in the creek, cool temperatures, no bugs, bright sun and no crowds. I did see cars from Texas, Michigan, and Quebec, illustrating the reputation of this remarkable park.
We parked at the Lake Rose parking area and soon hiked the trail under hemlocks. Moss covered rocks adorned the forest floor. We veered left onto the Highland Trail and enjoyed the giant rocks at the Midway Crevasse. The trail descended and we passed a family of hikers speaking Russian. The trail reached Glen Leigh where we turned right. I love Glen Leigh due to its stunning scenery and how close the trail is to the waterfalls. The numerous waterfalls were so beautiful. Giant trees rose through the canopy as the sunlight shone on moss and lichens. Despite it being a weeknight, we still passed several hikers, although the trail was not crowded.
We reached Waters Meet and headed downstream to see the three falls ending at Murray Reynolds. We then returned to Waters Meet.
I was hiking with a man from Oregon, who often hikes to the waterfalls in the famous Columbia River Gorge. He was thoroughly impressed by Ricketts Glen. He exclaimed that everywhere he looked, there was a waterfall.
We made our way up Ganoga Glen to enjoy the waterfalls and deep gorges. We took a break at deafening Ganoga Falls, almost 100 feet tall, as it roared down a precipice. We continued our climb as the sun set, casting the gorge in twilight. Falls seemed to dance through the trees. The aroma of the water and deep hemlock forests was intoxicating.
We reached the car and drove to Lake Jean as the sun set, casting the skies into colors of amber and gold.
I will always return to Ricketts Glen from time to time. It is truly one of nature’s great cathedrals.
We parked at 41.329862, -76.290824.
View this post on InstagramShawnee Falls, Ricketts Glen State Park.
A post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Jul 30, 2019 at 1:09pm PDT
View this post on InstagramA post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Jul 30, 2019 at 1:12pm PDT
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View this post on InstagramBehind the dripping springs of R.B. Ricketts Falls. Ricketts Glen State Park.
A post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Jul 30, 2019 at 2:46pm PDT
View this post on InstagramHarrison Wright Falls, Ricketts Glen State Park.
A post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Jul 31, 2019 at 1:04pm PDT
View this post on InstagramHard to beat Ricketts Glen State Park on an evening like this.
A post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Jul 31, 2019 at 5:24pm PDT
View this post on InstagramThe trail up Ganoga Glen, Ricketts Glen State Park. Waterfalls everywhere you look.
A post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Jul 31, 2019 at 5:26pm PDT
View this post on InstagramMighty Ganoga Falls, the tallest in Ricketts Glen State Park.
A post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Jul 31, 2019 at 5:29pm PDT
View this post on InstagramDespite its modest height, Oneida Falls is one of the most picturesque at Ricketts Glen State Park.
A post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Jul 31, 2019 at 5:40pm PDT
View this post on InstagramWaterfalls through the forest. Mohawk Falls, Ricketts Glen State Park.
A post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Jul 31, 2019 at 6:02pm PDT
View this post on InstagramLake Jean sunset, Ricketts Glen State Park. So many beautiful places in NEPA.
A post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Jul 31, 2019 at 6:04pm PDT
View this post on InstagramA post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Sep 10, 2019 at 5:46pm PDT
View this post on InstagramHarrison Wright Falls, Ricketts Glen State Park.
A post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Sep 13, 2019 at 3:34pm PDT
The Eales Preserve at Moosic Mountain-The Nature Conservancy
The Eales Preserve has established itself as a premier destination for mountain biking and hiking. For good reason. The preserve protects some of the largest heath barrens in the eastern US, covering hundreds of acres. The trails feature streams, ponds, rock outcrops, and non-stop views. You can see for over thirty miles. The Eales Preserve is owned by the Nature Conservancy. It is surprising how much beauty surrounds Scranton and Wilkes-Barre.
The trails were built by mountain bikers, so they tend to be curvy. But hiking is also allowed. Overall the trails are in good shape and have signs, but few blazes. The trails also appear on Google Maps.
If you like views, the loop described below is my favorite. I recommend hiking in late afternoon and save the Blueberry Trail for last, so you can see the sunset as you hike. It will be an experience you won’t forget. The best time to see the preserve may be in early October when the meadows explode into fields of deep red. It is incredibly beautiful.
This loop is 5-6 miles and is moderate in difficulty. Climbs tend to be gradual and you will walk over and across rock slabs. From the parking area, walked to the kiosk and soon thereafter turn left onto the Bruised Ego Trail as you get the first taste of some views. Turn right onto the Conglomerate Loop and enjoy expansive views of the Lackawanna Valley. Continue on the Stonehenge Trail, which is more wooded, but I like to include The View Trail. As the name suggests, this one has some great views. Return to the Stonehenge Trail with more woodlands and small streams. Reach a powerline and continue on the Waterfall Loop, on which I have never found a waterfall. This makes a gradual climb over ledges with some views, but then enters the woods. Near the top, veer right onto the classic Blueberry Trail, which features non stop views that are breathtaking with some small pine groves. Sunsets are incredible from this trail as it meanders across vast heath meadows. As you descend enter a forest with a spring, but then return to the open meadows. The trail drops down to the parking area.
All the trails at the preserve are worth hiking. Another trail with superb views is High Voltage Trail. Gene’s Trail is also enjoyable with streams and a pond.
We are fortunate to have this beautiful place open to the public, for everyone to explore and enjoy.
Parking is at: 41.438408, -75.541067.
View this post on InstagramA post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Aug 25, 2019 at 4:16pm PDT
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View this post on InstagramBlueberry Trail, the classic trail at the Eales Preserve with views of Elk Mtn.
A post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Aug 26, 2019 at 3:10pm PDT
View this post on InstagramA post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Aug 26, 2019 at 3:16pm PDT
View this post on InstagramThe Blueberry Trail at sunset is something you won't forget. I love living in Northeast PA.
A post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Aug 26, 2019 at 3:20pm PDT
View this post on InstagramPine profile at twilight. I hiked out along the Blueberry Trail.
A post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Aug 26, 2019 at 3:33pm PDT
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View this post on InstagramThe View trail. 30 to 40 mile views from the Eales Preserve.
A post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Aug 26, 2019 at 3:06pm PDT
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