Jeff Mitchell's Blog, page 21
September 18, 2019
Little Rocky Glen-Countryside Conservancy
Little Rockly Glen is a preserve owned by the Countryside Conservancy. While it is small in size, it is big in beauty, featuring a gorge shaded with hemlocks and adorned with moss and ferns. The South Branch Tunkhannock Creek flows through the gorge, creating rapids, deep pools, and unique erosional features. Trout anglers enjoy the glen, as do whitewater kayakers in high water.
We parked in a lot along Lithia Valley Road and followed the trail above the creek. The trails are not marked, but are easy to follow. We hiked to the top of a mushroom rock outcrop overlooking the glen. The views were beautiful. We were able to descend to the ledge below the outcrop to enjoy the rapids and cascades, not to mention the unique potholes in the rock.
We climbed back up and hiked the trail as it clung to the side of the glen, the creek roaring below. We descended to a large pool, meadow, and a large picnic shelter. The pool was beautiful as the deep waters swirled, and the meadow was adorned with wildflowers. Swimming is not allowed in the glen as several people have drowned.
On the hike back out, we retraced our steps, enjoying the scenery of the glen. The total hike was less than a quarter mile. Little Rocky Glen is ideal for a quick visit to enjoy the beauty of nature.
We parked at 41.554341, -75.833674. There is parking for about five or six cars.
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View this post on InstagramRock formations at Little Rocky Glen, owned by the Countryside Conservancy.
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View this post on InstagramCurrents of rock. Little Rocky Glen Preserve. Countryside Conservancy.
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View this post on InstagramLittle Rocky Glen, Countryside Conservancy.
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View this post on InstagramDeep water. Little Rocky Glen, Countryside Conservancy.
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View this post on InstagramLittle Rocky Glen, Countryside Conservancy.
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View this post on InstagramLittle Rocky Glen, Countryside Conservancy.
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September 13, 2019
Hiking the Pinchot Trail South Loop-Pinchot State Forest
The south loop of the Pinchot Trail (PT) is a beautiful, and fairly easy, hike. While the terrain is rolling and hilly, there is still a lot of great scenery and diversity. The south loop is about 13 mile long, and the trail is blazed orange. This loop is ideal as an overnight backpack, or a long dayhike. Two years ago, several trail relocations were completed which greatly enhanced the scenery of this loop. All road walks were eliminated (other than the one to complete the loop at the north end) and the new trails explored diverse forests, wetlands, and streams. The new route also encompassed great creek walking along Choke Creek, and now includes Choke Creek Falls. The reroutes have been popular with hikers. The Keystone Trails Association helped build these new trails.
I decided to tackle the south loop as a dayhike, and I went counterclockwise, a direction I don’t usually take. I parked at the trailhead where Tannery Road meets Bear Lake Rd. (SR 2016). There were spaces for about seven cars. I walked the road to the west side of the loop and headed south. The trail became wet and tunneled through thick laurel and rhododendron. Spruce and hemlock grew overhead. I crossed the headwaters of Choke Creek and passed a campsite. I soon reached a nice view over a wetland.
The PT continued to meander through scenic forests of spruce, pine and hemlock. The forests opened up with hardwoods and blueberry bushes. I crossed a gated gravel road and entered one of my favorite places, a primeval forest of spruce, pine, moss, and hemlock near a swamp. The PT is unique in having more native red spruce trees than most backpacking trails in PA. The trail meandered through these beautiful forests, defined by a tread of bare earth. I enjoyed hiking through the tunnels of rhododendron, which bloom in early July.
One section of trail was inundated with laurel, but I soon broke free and descended to Choke Creek with its beaver dams, ponds, and beautiful campsites. I really enjoy this section of trail due to its scenery and isolation. The creek had been heavily impacted by beaver dams, but floods breached several dams and the trail was not as flooded as it had been in the past. I took a break at one of the trail’s finest campsites, which sits on a ledge over the creek. I then passed the yellow Choke Creek Nature Trail to the left; this trail makes an ideal dayhike loop.
I continued along scenic Choke Creek with views of the creek, meandering wetlands, and giant pine trees. The PT moved away from Choke Creek to avoid wetlands and thick brush, but soon returned with fine views across a large wetland. I soon reached stunning Choke Creek Falls, which is about 20 feet tall and tumbles into a deep pool lined with ledges. A boy scout troop was swimming in the pool. The trail continued up along Butler Run in a deep hemlock forest with great camping. The next few miles featured rolling terrain with hardwood forests, small streams, and a pine plantation. The trail became rocky after crossing Phelps Road and then I followed wide forest paths up to a hill with a fine dry campsite. I dropped down to a vast meadow along Balsam Swamp with views of the spruce and fir trees. The trail then returned to tunnels of rhododendron, scenic spruce and pine forests, before returning me to my car.
Over the last twenty years, it is remarkable to see how popular the PT has become. I enjoy the south loop because it is such a diverse and scenic route. The trail threads through hemlock, hardwoods, spruce, pine, rhododendrons, and laurel. There is always something different to see with the creeks, wetlands, and waterfall. And the fine camping makes this hike that much better.
I parked at 41.215358, -75.642310. The only real issues on the trail are some wet areas, possible beaver flooding, and some brushy areas. Enjoy the trail!
View this post on InstagramHiked the south loop of the Pinchot Trail today, about 14 miles. Diverse and beautiful trail.
A post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Aug 3, 2019 at 5:24pm PDT
View this post on InstagramSouth loop of the Pinchot Trail, Pinchot State Forest.
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View this post on InstagramBeaver pond on Choke Creek, Pinchot Trail. Pinchot State Forest.
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View this post on InstagramMeadow views on the Pinchot Trail, Pinchot State Forest. Hiking the south loop.
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View this post on InstagramRed pine forest, Pinchot Trail.
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View this post on InstagramScenery in the atmosphere, Pinchot Trail, Pinchot State Forest.
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September 10, 2019
Waterfalls of Bull Run-SGL 36
Bull Run is a small stream that flows down a gorge to Schrader Creek in SGL 36. Along the way, it tumbles through a beautiful red rock glen with several waterfalls and cascades. This is a short hike, only about a quarter or third of a mile, but it is very scenic. There are no signs or blazes. Bull Run is a small stream that likely dries in summer. The best flow is when the Towanda Creek USGS gauge is above 6 feet.
From the pull off parking area, follow an old grade into the woods. After a few hundred feet, reach Bull Run. To your left, or upstream, see the smooth red bedrock with small slides and cascades. Most of the action, however, is to your right, or downstream. Hike along the edge of the glen to see a six foot falls that leads to the tallest falls, at about 12-15 feet. Continue downstream with boulders and slides that leads to a beautiful series of cascades over red bedrock. The red bedrock is striking and it was beautiful to see the water tumble over the ledges. Bull Run then flows into private land.
Bull Run is just one of the highlights in the Schrader Creek valley, where there are many more waterfalls on its tributaries, not to mention vistas, giant rocks, ponds, and historical ruins from the mining era from over a century ago.
Pull off parking is at 41.678621, -76.542346. The game commission road is a little steep, but it can be driven by a car.
View this post on InstagramA post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Jul 19, 2019 at 12:59pm PDT
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View this post on InstagramBeautiful Bull Run, SGL 36. Impressive red rock grotto with many falls and cascades.
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View this post on InstagramChristmas isn't the only time for red and green. Bull Run, SGL 36.
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View this post on InstagramBull Run, SGL 36. See my hiking companion?
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View this post on InstagramBull Run features sculpted red bedrock etched with moss. Very beautiful spot. Sgl 36.
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September 4, 2019
Hiking Cedar Run-Tioga State Forest
Cedar Run is a tributary of Pine Creek, it is known for its scenery and trout fishing. Cedar Run flows through a deep canyon in the Tioga State Forest. I’ve heard rumors of the beauty of this stream, and decided to check it out myself. This hike comprised of walking up Cedar Run itself, often in the water, and then returning via Leetonia Road. This hike is about 7 miles in total.
I found a place to pull off along Leetonia Road and simply walked off trail down to Cedar Run. I encountered a steep cliff, but took a more gradual deer path down to the creek. From there I simply walked upstream. The water was clear and pristine, not to mention refreshing on such a warm day. As I walked upstream, the scenery of Cedar Run revealed itself with deep, translucent pools, and towering grottos and cliffs. There were deep forests of large hemlock and pine. This section of Cedar does not have any waterfalls on it, or large rapids.
Whenever the creek made a bend, there seemed to be cliffs and deep pools. At times I walked along the bank above the creek when the terrain allowed. As I walked up the creek, I saw a flock of fifteen mergansers. I was pushing them up the creek, and they clearly wanted to go down. I hiked up the bank, and let them pass downstream. They scurried through the water, leaving a wake of bubbling foam.
As I continued upstream, the scenery continued to impress. Despite Leetonia Road being close by, I felt I was in the midst of a vast wilderness. This hike was beautiful, and relaxing. By the time I reached Straight Run on the right, the cliffs and grottos had largely receded to steep wooded hillsides. I then hiked up to Tumbling Run, which featured a twenty foot falls and a cabin perched above it. A truly beautiful spot.
I continued upstream to Long Branch and left Cedar Run. I hiked up Long Branch and scrambled up to the red blazed Long Branch Trail. Up Long Branch was a beautiful ten foot falls. I hiked the Long Branch Trail out to Mine Hole Road, turned left, and hiked a short distance to Leetonia Road, which I then walked back to my car.
This is an ideal summer “crick walk” when the water is low. Do not attempt in high water. Cedar Run is a beautiful creek that you will enjoy.
I parked at or about 41.530243, -77.453171.
View this post on InstagramA post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Jul 20, 2019 at 3:02pm PDT
View this post on InstagramDown in the gorge of Cedar Run. Awesome day exploring the PA Wilds.
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View this post on InstagramClear deep waters of Cedar Run. Tioga State Forest.
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View this post on InstagramForests along Cedar Run. There were huge pine trees along the creek. Tioga State Forest.
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View this post on InstagramScenery of Cedar Run, Tioga State Forest.
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View this post on InstagramTumbling Run, living up to its name. Cedar Run, Tioga State Forest.
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View this post on InstagramThe perfect place for a cabin. If I lived here, I might never leave. Cedar Run, Tioga State Forest.
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View this post on InstagramViews over Cedar Run, Tioga State Forest.
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August 30, 2019
Bartlett Mountain Balds in Summer-SGL 57
There have been many posts on this blog about the Bartlett Mountain Balds. This destination is unique due to its diversity, scenery, and isolation. Despite my many visits to this place, I had never been there in the summer, fearing writhing masses of snakes. Well, I went in early July with Ben and I was blown away by the scenery. And, amazingly, we didn’t see a single snake (but we did come across a geocache).
I wish I was up there a few weeks earlier, in late June. Then, the balds explode in blooms of white and pink from the mountain and sheep laurel. Combined with the red spruce forests, this occurs no where else in Pennsylvania. It really gives the appearance of being in the southern Appalachians, or a natural botanical garden. The balds here are unique in that they are home to both spruce and laurel. Usually, spruce forests create too much shade for laurel, but the bedrock balds give the laurel the sun it needs for amazing blooms. I will be sure to get up there next June.
We began at the White Brook parking area, and hiked through some woods to the right, avoiding the meadows. We hiked by some cottages, hiked up a steep grade through pine, and circumvented some private property. We hiked off trail down to White Brook and crossed the creek. We then reached a grade, and hiked upstream to see White Brook Falls. We retraced our steps to hike up a grade Ben calls the “Shore Front Parkway” due to a road sign nailed to one of the trees.
This climb is more scenic and gradual than the one up the White Brook grade, which would be our return route. We reached the top and crossed some small streams with cascades. At an intersection, there was a wet area and then we followed an old ATV trail (Bald Access Grade on the map) to the base of the balds. This trail became faint, but the scenery was beautiful with fern meadows and spruce trees. We then turned south and scrambled to the top of the balds (pink dots on the map).
Hiking across the balds was amazing with white bedrock, deep green spruce trees, moss, lichens, and some lingering laurel blooms. This is PA’s boreal forest wonderland. We hiked long the edge of the balds, but then turned southwest into the interior which became thick with vegetation at times. We also explored some rarely seen interior balds which again impressed me with its scenery. We reached Big Deer Swamp and followed an old grade to the White Brook grade. Keep in mind the hike across the balds is not blazed or signed; it is shown on the map with pink dots. About 70% of the route is open, about 30% is bushwhacking through vegetation.
We followed the White Brook grade down the mountain and back to our cars. This is an arduous, and very rewarding hike, about 11-12 miles in length. Most of this hike follows established grades, but there are no signs and few blazes. As always, treat the balds with respect. Parking is at 41.496529, -76.132005.
Click here to download a geo-referenced PDF map of Bartlett Mountain. Map was created by Ben Van Riper. Download the free Avenza mapping app, upload the PDF map to Avenza. Then you can navigate this awesome area with your cell phone, even without service. As you can see on the map, Bartlett Mountain is incredible with spruce forests, balds, gorges, waterfalls, wetlands, and vistas.
Get out there and explore.
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View this post on InstagramBartlett Mtn Balds, SGL 57. The Dolly Sods of PA.
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View this post on InstagramWhite Brook Falls before the climb up to the Bartlett Mtn Balds, SGL 57.
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View this post on InstagramA geocache lurking at the Bartlett Mtn Balds, SGL 57.
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View this post on InstagramSlabs to the sky. Bartlett Mtn Balds, SGL 57.
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View this post on InstagramBartlett Mtn Balds, can't wait to go back. SGL 57.
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August 27, 2019
Roadside Vistas of the Pine Creek Gorge
The Pine Creek Gorge is one of the largest in the eastern U.S. It is 50 miles long and 1,450 feet deep at its deepest point. It was formed by glacial meltwater, and later, but the redirected Pine Creek. Pine Creek is famous for its beauty. It was one of the original rivers considered to become a national scenic river, and it is currently a state scenic river. Pine Creek is home to a vast network of trails, several state parks, and the famous Pine Creek Trail, one of the finest rail trails in the country.
The rim of the gorge also features a series of overlooks. Many of these can be driven to, and the most impressive of these views are in the southern half of the gorge. If you are with someone who can’t hike, or want a relaxing way to see the beauty of the gorge, these roadside vistas are ideal. I was incredibly impressed by the beauty of these vistas and am surprised they are not more famous.
The numbers below correspond to the map.
1.Ramsey Vista Rating (0-5): 5 Location: 41.304726, -77.342571 The finest vista on the east rim of the gorge, this one is perfect for sunsets. This view has a wide 180 degree panorama and is very scenic.
2. McKees Run Road Rating: 4 Location: 41.380531, -77.332474 A fine view looking north over deep glens. Isolated feel. The road to it is a little rough, but can be negotiated by a car.
3. McKees Run Road Rating: 2.5 Location: 41.377949, -77.343345 A second view on McKees Run Road is nice, but not as scenic as No. 2. It basically looks across a forested valley with not much variation of terrain.
4. Big Trail Road/Black Forest Trail Rating: 4.5 Location: 41.444881, -77.556803 A beautiful view looking over Hemlock Mountain and the plateaus along the gorge.
5. Big Trail Road Rating: 5 Location: 41.430781, -77.526315 One of the finest views in the region, this one is rarely visited. It looks north up the gorge offering an impressive view with a wide variety of terrain. The road to this view is a little rough, but can be driven by a car.
6. Big Trail Road Rating: 0 Location: 41.413117, -77.491389 Don’t bother with this one. The view is largely grown over and the road to it is long and rough.
7. Lebo Vista Rating: 5 Location: 41.390368, -77.468836 An awesome vista that is ideal for sunrises. 180 degree view and isolated. A must see.
8. Sinking Springs Spur Rating: 3 Location: 41.356643, -77.428054 Nice view and isolated, but pretty narrow view.
9. Bull Run #1 Rating: 4.5 Location: 41.305124, -77.379143 Beautiful view looking north into the gorges of Pine Creek and Little Pine Creek with towering plateaus.
10. Bull Run #3 Rating: 5 Location: 41.270989, -77.347183 Spectacular views from a swath and the view itself. You can see to the north, east, and south. Perfect for sunrises.
11. Bull Run Rating: 4.5 Location: 41.254627, -77.344260 Beautiful view looking east, can see for about 40 miles. The Allegheny Front and lowlands can be seen from this view. Ideal for sunrises.
View this post on InstagramPine Creek Gorge from Ramsey Vista this evening. Waiting for the sunset. Incredible view.
A post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Jun 28, 2019 at 5:20pm PDT
View this post on InstagramPA is beautiful. Pine Creek Gorge.
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View this post on InstagramMorning view from Lebo Vista. Pine Creek Gorge.
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View this post on InstagramPine Creek Gorge, Tiadaghton State Forest.
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View this post on InstagramEndless views in the Tiadaghton State Forest. Tiadaghton is the Iroquois word for River of Pines.
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View this post on InstagramHave a great evening. Pine Creek Gorge, Tiadaghton State Forest.
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View this post on InstagramViews of the Pine Creek Gorge this morning. Tiadaghton State Forest. Love this place.
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View this post on InstagramView of the southern end of the Pine Creek Gorge. Tiadaghton State Forest.
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View this post on InstagramPine Creek Gorge, one of the largest in the east. Tiadaghton State Forest.
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View this post on Instagram50 mile views above Pine Creek. You can see SGL 13 from here. Tiadaghton State Forest.
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View this post on InstagramSo impressed by these views in the Tiadaghton State Forest. Pine Creek Gorge is a remarkable place.
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View this post on InstagramView of Hemlock Mtn and Pine Creek Gorge from the Black Forest Trail. Tiadaghton State Forest.
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View this post on InstagramPine Creek Gorge, Tiadaghton State Forest.
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View this post on InstagramHemlock Mtn from the Black Forest Trail. Tiadaghton State Forest.
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August 21, 2019
Hiking at Little Pine State Park
Little Pine State Park is a beautiful place to camp and explore. The park serves as a great base to experience the Pine Creek Gorge region. Little Pine also features a wealth of trails, with both the Mid State and Tiadaghton Trails passing through the park. On this hike, we followed the Mid State (MST) and Panther Run Trails; it is about 5.5 miles long and has a vertical climb of 1,000 feet. This hike featured narrow ridges, unique rock formations, old quarries, a view, streams, and views of the lake.
The MST is the longest in the state, stretching from Maryland to New York. The MST is also a component of the Great Eastern Trail, which goes from Alabama to New York.
We began at the large parking area on the left on the entrance road to the campground. We followed the MST to the right and crossed Little Pine Creek Road. The MST switchbacked up the slope, although the climb wasn’t terribly steep. Along the way we passed some old quarries. Once we reached the ridge, the climb eased and we were treated to some unique rock formations. As we hiked through this section, a strong thunderstorm hit and we retreated under one of the rocks for shelter. Lightning and thunder blasted all around us. Hail even began to fall through the torrential rains. Thankfully, the storm blew over after twenty minutes and we resumed our hike.
The trail made a gradual climb to the top of the plateau. It was a beautiful hike with pine, moss, and thickets of mountain laurel that still had some blossoms. The MST then turned right and descended into Wildcat Hollow. The descent was very steep and we had to watch for loose rock. The terrain eased and we walked along a small stream under a beautiful forest. We crossed a footbridge at a cabin; moss seemed to be everywhere. The MST turned left and followed an old grade away from the cabin, heading up another hollow as a stream tumbled off to our left. The trail then made a sharp right onto a narrow grade and made a gradual climb up to the ridge. At the top, we left the MST and turned right onto the yellow blazed Panther Run Trail.
The Panther Run Trail descended along a narrow ridge and we soon reached a nice view. We continued down on the trail, passing impressive rock outcrops and formations. The narrow ridge was beautiful with pine and moss, and we could see down both sides of the ridge. Another thunderstorm came and poured on us, but with nowhere to hide, we just kept hiking. We reached Little Pine Creek Road and crossed it. The Panther Run Trail ended at the road. We simply hiked across the mowed areas and around the picnic pavilions to get views of the lake. We followed the mowed area to the far end and hiked along the road. At the dam, where there is another place to park, we walked out to see the views of the mountains over the lake. This is a scenic view and popular with photographers. We continued down along the road to where we parked, ending our hike.
This hike is a workout, but no overly difficult. It features some beautiful scenery and is a nice introduction to the vast trail system in the Pine Creek Gorge region.
Parking is available at 41.351504, -77.355909. Pull off parking at the dam is at 41.355075, -77.356803.
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View this post on InstagramOn the Mid State Trail after the storm. Beautiful trail with some laurel still blooming.
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View this post on InstagramMid State Trail, the longest in PA. Hike it.
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View this post on InstagramFootbridge over Love Run with moss carpets. Mid State Trail.
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View this post on InstagramImpressive rock formations along the Panther Run Trail, Little Pine State Park.
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View this post on InstagramMid State Trail, Little Pine State Park.
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August 13, 2019
Loyalsock Backpacking Trail Medley
The Loyalsock State Forest has established itself as the premier backpacking destination in eastern Pennsylvania. The forest is home to miles of trails that explore gorges, waterfalls, vistas, and rock formations. A few months ago, I went on an overnight backpacking trip on a variety of trails through the state forest featuring some of its fine scenery. Bryan, Dan, and Matt joined me on this trip. This hike was about 17 miles.
We met at the Worlds End State Park office (located at 41.471808, -76.581784) and shuttled a car to a pull off along Coal Mine Road (located at 41.456752, -76.628380). We hiked down the road a short distance and turned left onto the Loyalsock Trail (LT); much of our hike would be on this trail. The LT brought us to impressive Alpine Vista as it looked down the Loyalsock Creek valley. The trail descended steeply to Lower Alpine Vista and its equally scenic view. There we saw two men hunting for snakes. The trail continued to drop down to beautiful Ketchum Run. We hiked up along the stream with its rapids and cascades. We took a break a Rode Falls and climbed up its ladder. We climbed up the gorge, under giant hemlocks as the water roared below. Ketchum Run is such a beautiful place and is one of the gems in the state forest. Next was Lee’s Falls and an impressive chasm upstream.
The hike up Ketchum was a pleasure as we passed campsites under hemlocks. The LT turned right and crossed the run, but we followed an unblazed trail upstream where we enjoyed two more falls and bedrock cascades. We reached a blue blazed trail and followed the Ketchum Run Trail. Our next turn was right onto the yellow Ketchum Run Nature Trail; this turn was discreet. The trail returned us to Ketchum Run with its bedrock cascades, falls, and pools. This was another great trail as it meandered along streams, ground pine, and hemlock forests. We soon reached the parking area and took a break at a shelter.
Our hike continued by turning left onto Worlds End Road and a quick left onto a red/blue ski trail under more hemlocks with carpets of moss. After turning left onto the red trail, it took us back to Coal Mine Road for a short road walk, we turned left off the road, on the red trail as it followed a narrow grade to the LT where we turned right. We would follow the LT all the way to Canyon Vista.
The LT was a beautiful hike as we passed streams, hemlocks, meadows, and nice campsites. The trail climbed to a ridge and then descended, passing some large rock outcrops. We descended to the east branch of Double Run and saw the orange sulphur spring and enjoyed Mineral Spring Falls. We found a nice campsite along the LT and settled in for the night with a campfire and conversation. It was neat to see the foliage in the trees turn to yellow and orange in the setting sun. A small stream babbled through the night.
We were up early the next morning and the trail was beautiful, a thread through open forests and meadows of ferns. We soon reached Canyon Vista and enjoyed the trail, as well as the mazes of the Rock Garden behind it. Next was the blue Canyon Vista Trail which featured some giant rocks and passageways that everyone enjoyed. I then took them on the new yellow Cold Run Trail, a highlight with its gorges, waterfalls, views, rock outcrops, and boulder arch. We passed two women hiking who proclaimed this was their favorite hike and that they hike it every week. We returned to the blue Canyon Vista Trail and dropped down to the Loyalsock Creek which we walked along enjoying the rapids and scenery. A climb took us to Warren’s Window and then we descended to Double Run with its waterfalls and cascades. We hiked back to the park office along the Link Trail.
Everyone enjoyed the diverse scenery of the Loyalsock, although they weren’t thrilled with the final climb to Warren’s Window. This is such a beautiful area and I’m sure it will not be our last hike in the ‘Sock.
View this post on InstagramA post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Jun 23, 2019 at 2:59pm PDT
View this post on InstagramLower Alpine Vista. Loyalsock Trail.
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View this post on InstagramRode Falls, Ketchum Run. Loyalsock Trail.
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View this post on InstagramDan at Rode Falls, Loyalsock Trail.
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View this post on InstagramThe ladder at Rode Falls, Loyalsock Trail.
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View this post on InstagramBryan enjoying the beauty of Ketchum Run, Loyalsock State Forest.
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View this post on InstagramWaterfalls of Ketchum Run along our hike. Beautiful place. Loyalsock State Forest.
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View this post on InstagramCanyons of trees. Morning light on the Loyalsock Trail.
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View this post on InstagramCanyon Vista, Worlds End State Park.
A post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Jun 24, 2019 at 3:33pm PDT
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View this post on InstagramThe impressive Boulder Arch on the Cold Run Trail, an awesome trail to hike. Worlds End State Park.
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View this post on InstagramBryan and Dan at some of the waterfalls on the Cold Run Trail. Loyalsock State Forest.
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View this post on InstagramCold Run vista, looking up the Loyalsock Creek. Worlds End State Park.
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View this post on InstagramWarren's Window, Worlds End State Park.
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View this post on InstagramCascading light. Double Run, Worlds End State Park.
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View this post on InstagramLoyalsock Creek as it flows through Worlds End State Park. We took a swim, water was frigid.
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August 7, 2019
A Hike at the Woodbourne Forest & Wildlife Preserve
Established in 1956, Woodbourne Forest is one of the first preserves owned by The Nature Conservancy. It covers 648 acres and features wetlands, meadows, streams, impressive rock walls, beaver dam, and an old growth hemlock forest. Woodbourne is home to a remarkable diversity of plants and animals; it is an ideal place for birdwatching with its various habitats. Woodbourne is also a great place to bring kids for a hike.
There is a network of seven miles of trails at the preserve. On this hike, we followed a three mile loop along the Swamp and Woodruff Hill Trails. From the parking area (please note the parking area is located at the top of a hill and it can be difficult to see oncoming traffic) we followed the Swamp Trail down through fields and meadows with wildflowers. We entered the forest as the trail meandered down to a large swamp with a viewing platform. There were countless birds, lilies blooming in the water, and a chorus of frogs. A muskrat swam in the water below us. This place teems with life and is the perfect place to look for animals.
The Swamp Trail meandered along the shore under hemlocks and then veered left over a boardwalk; this would be our return route. We kept right onto the Woodruff Hill Trail as it crossed a meadow and entered the woods with some giant oak trees. The trail was a bit wet as it explored the forest, but it was a pleasure to hike. The trail turned left and followed a small stream to where it joined a larger one. I enjoyed hiking along the creeks under large trees and across carpets of ferns. The trail crossed the larger creek and meandered through impressive stone walls and beneath more large trees. We soon reached the outlet of the swamp we were at earlier where there was a beaver dam. We crossed the creek and rejoined the Swamp Trail through the beautiful old growth hemlock forest along the shore of the swamp. The sun reflected off the water and illuminated the hemlock forest from below. This is a great section to hike. We crossed the boardwalk and retraced our steps back to the car.
If you like hiking through forests, meadows, and along streams and rock walls, Woodbourne is the place for you. The forests are scenic and isolated. The swamp is a highlight with its wildlife. The streams are relaxing and the stone walls will impress with their size and craftsmanship.
We parked at 41.761158, -75.897911.
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View this post on InstagramBig trees, boardwalks, and wetlands at Woodbourne Forest Preserve.
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View this post on InstagramWoodbourne Forest. This place teems with wildlife. There is a beaver dam and we saw a muskrat.
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August 2, 2019
Mid State, Pine Creek, and Water Tank Loop-Tioga State Forest
The Pine Creek Gorge is a popular hiking destination, with many of the trails on the west side of the gorge. Thanks to the Mid State Trail, Pine Creek Rail Trail and the Water Tank Trail, there is also a great hiking loop on the east rim. This loop is about six miles long. Ian joined me on this hike.
We began hiking from a parking area on Clay Mine Road and walked down the road to the MST, on which we turned right. The MST explored some boulders and meandered through the forest until it eventually made its way down to Water Tank Run. We passed springs and thickets of laurel with pine. At Water Tank Run, the yellow Water Tank Trail joined the MST; this would be our return route.
We continued on the MST as it explored beautiful forests and more laurel thickets. The trail was a pleasure to hike. We crossed the other branch of Water Tank Run and continued on the MST. The trail took us into gorgeous open forests with meadows of ferns, sunlight dappled the forest floor as the ferns waved in the breeze. A yellow side trail to the right took us to a fine view from the east rim, looking across the gorge. Thunderstorms rumbled to the north from dark, ominous clouds. There was also a view looking south, but it was mostly grown over. We retraced our steps back to the MST and soon reached Stone Quarry Run. Here, the MST turned right and descended along Stone Quarry Run. (Keep in mind the MST is presently being rerouted and it will go across Stone Quarry Run and down Fork Hill with two vistas, this route is shown as red on the map).
The trail down Stone Quarry Run was beautiful as we followed a narrow grade above the deep gorge. We could hear the creek cascading far below and the open forest allowed us to see the other side of the gorge carved by Stone Quarry Run. The trail became steep near the bottom. We reached the Pine Creek Rail Trail and there was a fifteen foot falls on Stone Quarry Run.
The next part of the hike followed the rail trail, which is not blazed but obvious. We hiked up the trail as storm clouds gathered to the north. Pine Creek flowed along the trail as kayakers sailed by. Flowers adorned the bank and bicyclists passed us. Many bicyclists from the Philippines passed us and one stopped and warned us about some snakes ahead and their massive size. His alarm caught me by surprise as I thought the Philippines must have some pretty fearsome snakes. We hiked on, but never saw the snakes. We reached Water Tank Run. I hiked an unmarked trail on the south side of the run (black on the map above) to a stunning 30 foot falls. It was a little tough to get to the falls due to the steep terrain, but a path with a rope provided some assistance. I hear there is a double falls upstream, but we did not have time to see it.
We returned to the rail trail and then turned right onto the yellow Water Tank Trail, which is on the north side of Water Tank Run. The trail was very steep, but that was not our only concern. The clouds opened up and we were treated to a torrential downpour complete with thunder and lightning. There was little we could do, so we trudged up the steep trail as heavy rains doused the forest. The trail became more gradual and the rain began to ease. The gorge of Water Tank Run was beautiful with cascades. The gorge was deep and impressive, as the trail clung to the side of it. We crossed Water Tank Run, reached the MST, and retraced our steps back to the car.
This was a beautiful and diverse hike that offered a bit of a challenge. Once the new MST route down Fork Hill is complete, it will be best to begin at Blackwell and I expect Stone Quarry Run will become a cross connector trail.
We parked at 41.603757, -77.373709. Parking in Blackwell is at 41.556268, -77.381904.
View this post on InstagramA post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on May 27, 2019 at 9:05am PDT
View this post on InstagramEast rim view of the Pine Creek Gorge along the Mid State Trail. Tioga State Forest.
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View this post on InstagramIan enjoying some Mid State Trail views. Tioga State Forest.
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View this post on InstagramFalls on Stone Quarry Run, Mid State Trail. Tioga State Forest.
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View this post on InstagramStorm blowing over the canyon. Pine Creek Gorge, Tioga State Forest. See the kayakers?
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View this post on InstagramWater Tank Run falls, Pine Creek Gorge. Tioga State Forest.
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