Jeff Mitchell's Blog, page 24
February 21, 2019
Exploring Flat Top-SGL 57
Corner Room, Flat Top, SGL 57
Flat Top is a prong of the plateau in SGL 57. It is notable for its scenic and ecological diversity. There are vistas, gorges, caves, chasms, overhangs, waterfalls and bedrock balds. Flat Top is home to hardwood, spruce, hemlock, and pine forests, not to mention wetlands, streams, and bogs.
I’ve been to Flat Top many times, but on this hike we decided to explore the base of the extensive cliffs.
If you want to hike to Flat Top, you should be an experienced hiker with a GPS or other navigational aid. There are some old forest roads and grades to help with navigation, but there are no marked or signed trails. Begin at the game commission parking area at White Brook (41.496555, -76.132024), cross the field (no mowed trail) to the northwest corner, climb a bank with some pickers, hike up along two homes, and follow the steep grade into a pine forest. Leave the pine forest and follow an obvious grade just to the right and hike up it. White Brook, and its falls, are far below on the right.
We reached an obvious grade to the left and followed it to near the top of the plateau. We reached a T intersection, turned right, and then left off the trail to begin the bushwhack part of the hike. We hiked west to the rim of the plateau and reached Conglomerate Cave, a massive overhang with a distinct layer of conglomerate rock. From here, we followed the rim around.
We were treated to incredible overhangs, mazes, chasms, and caves. We crossed some small streams and the rocks returned with Skylight Chasm. We squeezed through the slot at the back of Skylight Chasm to enter the Rock Room, a fascinating overhang and cave feature with ice flows. Amazing.
[image error]
P=Parking. B=Bald. Black dots are rock features. Red is off trail. Yellow are old grades or forest roads, or other unblazed trails.
The rocks continued along the edge of the rim. We went up through a rock maze, crossed a bald and reached a cliff. As we made our way toward Spruce Ledge, there was very rugged terrain and giant jumbled boulders. We reached the base of Spruce Ledge and marveled at the giant, orangish cliffs. A quick climb up to Spruce Ledge provided fine views and forests shimmering in a coat of ice.
We returned to the base, to see more caves, overhangs, and giant boulders. Heading north, we hiked below Preachers Rock and explored more chasms. Soon we were at the base of a bald where Ryan saw a weasel, which ran under a log, and something rolling down in the snow. It was a mouse it had just caught, but released after seeing us. We quickly moved on so the weasel could get its meal.
Giant boulders and passageways loomed in the forest. We reached the next highlight, the Corner Room, and incredible overhang and cave. A narrow roof of rock stretched over a giant house sized boulder. We climbed to the bald, and followed a faint trail to an even larger bald. Our off trail hike continued as we hiked to two balds, that we had not seen before. We went off trail through hemlock forests, saw a small rock maze, and dropped down to an existing trail, which we took back down White Brook to complete our hike.
SGL 57 is such a special place and is PA’s best kept secret. Sometimes I think it should be a national park. Experienced hikers will want to spend some time here.
Part of this hike is described as Hike No. 14 in Hiking the Endless Mountains.
View this post on Instagram
A post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Feb 18, 2019 at 2:09pm PST
View this post on Instagram
A post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Feb 18, 2019 at 2:17pm PST
View this post on Instagram
Natural rock sculpture in a cave. SGL 57 is incredible.
A post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Feb 18, 2019 at 2:22pm PST
View this post on Instagram
Skylight Chasm, SGL 57. We slipped through the very narrow slot in the back to see…
A post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Feb 18, 2019 at 2:31pm PST
View this post on Instagram
After slipping out of Skylight Chasm, this is what we saw. Nonstop caves and overhangs. SGL 57.
A post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Feb 18, 2019 at 2:38pm PST
View this post on Instagram
Giant cliffs below Spruce Ledge, SGL 57.
A post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Feb 18, 2019 at 3:16pm PST
View this post on Instagram
Views from Spruce Ledge, SGL 57.
A post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Feb 18, 2019 at 6:14pm PST
View this post on Instagram
A post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Feb 18, 2019 at 6:20pm PST
View this post on Instagram
A post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Feb 19, 2019 at 2:59pm PST
View this post on Instagram
Towering rock formations, chasms, and caves. SGL 57.
A post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Feb 19, 2019 at 3:54pm PST
View this post on Instagram
Dot of blue. The bald the unblazed trail crosses. SGL 57.
A post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Feb 19, 2019 at 3:58pm PST
View this post on Instagram
A post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Feb 19, 2019 at 4:03pm PST
February 19, 2019
Free Camping in Pennsylvania
Loyalsock Creek near the Onion Hole camping area, Loyalsock State Forest.
Pennsylvania features hundreds of free campsites for those looking for an inexpensive, isolated getaway, or refuge from the noise, crowds, and smoke of developed campgrounds.
Most of these free sites are on state forest lands. Most do not have any amenities, while a few may have picnic tables or a fire ring. Do not expect toilets, showers, or running water. These are primitive sites. Campsites are often along gravel forest roads which are usually in good shape, but can be muddy in spring, and impassable in winter. All sites are vehicle accessible, with your vehicle being at, or very close, to the campsite.
These sites are usually intended for tent camping. If you have a camper van or small trailer, contact the office to see if they are allowed or can be accommodated.
While free, all sites require registration and permit so be sure to call first.
Eastern Pennsylvania
Delaware State Forest: 29 sites with fire ring, picnic table, sign board. For anglers and paddlers, these sites are close to the state forests numerous lakes and ponds. For hikers, sites are close to the Thunder Swamp Trail system. Call 570-895-4000 for a permit.
Pinchot State Forest: 3 sites at the Manny Gordon Recreation Area, pit toilets are nearby. Sites are nestled among pine, hemlocks, and rhododendrons. The Pinchot Trail is nearby.
Moon Lake Recreation Area has 12 sites, most have a fire ring and picnic table. This is a best kept secret with a natural lake for fishing and paddling. Miles of mountain bike trails surround the camping area making this superb for bike riders. Also, Ricketts Glen is a short drive away, making Moon Lake an ideal alternative to that state park’s busy campground. Call 570-945-7133 for a permit.
Loyalsock State Forest: Some of the best free campsites are found in this state forest. Sites are often in scenic areas and hemlock groves. The perfect option for hikers, as sites are close to the state forest’s extensive system of trails to vistas, waterfalls, gorges, ponds, and rock formations. Beautiful Worlds End State Park is nearby.
There are 69 sites spread throughout the state forest. Loyalsock is unique for having four camping areas: Sand Spring, Masten, Onion Hole, and Bridle Trail. These camping areas have several sites making them ideal for larger groups.
Call 570-946-4049 for a permit.
Weiser State Forest: Has about 18 individual and group sites on its various tracts. The sites in the Haldeman Tract are recommended due to the existence of a hiking and mountain bike trail system, and an excellent view from the hang glider launch, which offers superb sunsets. Call 570-875-6450 for a permit.
Michaux State Forest: Has many designated sites throughout the forest. The Appalachian Trail is close by, as are many other hiking trails, and two state parks, Caledonia and Pine Grove Furnace. Call 717-352-2211 for a free permit.
Central Pennsylvania
Tioga State Forest: There are several sites available, which are close to excellent hiking along the Pine Creek Gorge and Asaph area. There are also mountain bike trails, rock climbing, and paddling. Call 570-724-2868 for a free permit. Tioga State Forest has two primitive campgrounds at County Bridge and Asaph, but a fee is required.
Susquehannock State Forest: The only designated sites for motorized camping are at the 2 Mile and Dyer equestrian camping areas, which are intended for horseback riders. Call 814-274-3600 for a permit.
Elk State Forest: Several sites are available in the forest, including an equestrian camping area and a primitive campground. Many trails are in the state forest. Do not miss exploring the beautiful Quehanna Wild Area. Wild elk herds are in the forest, and sites are close to the elk viewing areas. Sizerville State Park is a scenic, quaint park that is worth visiting. Do not miss a scenic drive on Ridge Road with its many excellent vistas. Call 814-486-3353 for a permit.
Tiadaghton State Forest: With an extensive hiking trail system that offers some of the best scenery in the state, Tiadaghton is camping paradise. The Pine Creek Trail, Mid State Trail, Golden Eagle Trail, and Black Forest Trails are all close. There are mountain bike trails and opportunities for paddling. Call 570-753-5409 for a permit.
Sproul State Forest: The largest of the state forests, Sproul covers over 305,000 acres. Enjoy the Chuck Keiper and Dount Hole Trails. Paddy Falls is a beautiful spot. There are many vistas, including famous Hyner View. Intrepid hikers should explore beautiful Clendenin Branch. Call 570-923-6011 for a permit.
Moshannon State Forest: Many designated sites are available throughout the forest. Enjoy the Quehanna and Allegheny Front Trails, Black Moshannon State Park, and the serene trails of the Quehanna Wild Area. There are ponds, elk viewing areas, and large rocks. This is an isolated and beautiful state forest. Call 814-765-0821 for a permit.
Bald Eagle State Forest: There are 45 designated sites with fire rings and picnic tables. The forest has many trails and natural areas. Enjoy the Mid State Trail, vistas, and many natural areas, including old growth forests. The Poe Paddy area is scenic with rugged ridges, canyons, and ridges. Call 570-922-3344 for a permit.
Rothrock State Forest: There are 8 designated sites with a picnic table and fire ring. Great hiking and mountain biking can be found here. Hike the Mid State and Standing Stone Trails with awesome vistas. Do not miss Rocky Ridge, Little Juniata Water Gap, or Alan Seeger Natural Areas. Penn Roosevelt State Park is a hidden gem. Call 814-643-2340 for a permit.
Tuscarora State Forest: Camp sites are available. See the remains of a train tunnel, views, and an old growth forest. Call 717-536-3191 for a permit.
Western Pennsylvania
Cornplanter State Forest: One site is available. It is close to the southwest corner of the Allegheny National Forest. Call 814-723-0262 for a permit.
Allegheny National Forest: There are many sites available with the most popular being along the gorgeous Clarion River and Millstone Creek. There are 17 sites along the Clarion and 9 along the Millstone. They tend to be popular.
Other sites can be found throughout the national forest where there are many trails, vistas, old growth forests, and cliffs. The Allegheny Reservoir is beautiful and ideal for kayaking its coves and bays. A world class mountain bike trail system is at Jakes Rocks. Hike the North Country Trail, Minister Creek, Morrison, and Tracy Ridge Trails.
For camping in the northern half of the national forest, call the Bradford Ranger Station – 814-362-4613, and in the southern half, call the Marienville Ranger Station – 814-927-6628.
Clear Creek State Forest: There are four sites. Enjoy trails to large rocks and along streams with rhododendron jungles that bloom in early July. Call 814-226-1901 for a permit.
Forbes State Forest: There are 6 sites throughout the forest, all near trails and other points of interest. Forbes State Forest has extensive recreational opportunities with many trails, natural areas, waterfalls, and Mt. Davis, the highest point in the state. Sublime Ohiopyle State Park is a fairly close drive. Call 724-238-1200 for a permit.
PA is a great state, and it doesn’t require a lot of money to explore it.
My books.
February 8, 2019
Exploring a Hidden Waterfall Glen-SGL 134
Yellow is a gated forest road. Red is off trail. Green is the easiest route, but may cross private property.
SGL 134 is a hidden gem, lying in the shadow of the Loyalsock State Forest. Here you will find beautiful vistas from cliffs over the narrow, rugged Loyalsock Creek valley. There is also Huckle Run, a small stream of stunning beauty with pristine water and a gorge with several waterfalls. The forests feature extensive hemlocks and large tulip poplar trees.
A few months ago I returned to SGL 134 to explore the gorge of an unnamed stream located north of Dry Run, near the village of Barbours. I suspected there would be waterfalls. Without a trail, I would have to bushwhack into the gorge. I parked along Proctor Road and hiked up a gate game commission road. I then began my off trail hike by climbing up the plateau to a ridge with many ledges and outcrops, including a unique stone pillar or pedestal. There were some partial views through the trees. I descended along the ridge and entered the gorge. Below me was a 15 foot falls in a scenic grotto.
Unfortunately, this is a small stream that does not hold water well. While it was running on my hike, it was low. I suggest the best time to see the falls is when the Loyalsock Creek is running at 6 feet or higher, as a rough approximation. I climbed up the gorge to see a 20 foot falls that tumbled over tiers of ledges. I couldn’t climb above this falls, so I backtracked down the creek and found an old grade on the west side. I climbed up the grade and saw a couple more scenic falls, about ten feet tall, often in grottos of sandstone. I continued my climb up the creek passing small cascades and slides under large hemlocks. Giant tulip poplars towered in the forest. I reached a deer fence and an old forest road with briars; I stayed in the woods. I followed a more open forest road and hiked around the deer fence. I descended to the game commission road and returned to my car.
My route wasn’t very ideal. It would be best to follow the green route on the map into the gorge, but it was not clear on my hike if that would cross private land. The ridge with the ledges was scenic, as was the gorge. Getting around the deer fence and logged area was a pain.
If you are looking for a new waterfall destination when all the creeks are high, I recommend this unnamed gorge. I also hope to explore nearby Dry Run sometime this year.
I parked at 41.411242, -76.804107.
View this post on Instagram
A post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Jan 6, 2019 at 2:06pm PST
View this post on Instagram
Secret glen with five falls. Could've used more water, but still very nice.
A post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Jan 6, 2019 at 2:09pm PST
View this post on Instagram
Beautiful falls in a secret glen, on an unnamed creek.
A post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Jan 6, 2019 at 2:13pm PST
View this post on Instagram
Huge tulip poplar and some beech.
A post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Jan 6, 2019 at 2:28pm PST
View this post on Instagram
A post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Jan 6, 2019 at 2:31pm PST
February 7, 2019
Exploring Sullivan Mountain and Buck Run-Loyalsock State Forest
Red is off trail. Yellow follows old grades or forest roads.
Back in December I went on a hike to see an off trail falls near Sullivan Mountain in the Loyalsock State Forest, and to explore Buck Run. I wasn’t going to post the hike because my route involved a lot of backtracking. However, this isolated area has some unique beauty that I realized was worthy of sharing.
I parked at a small lot near where Yellow Dog and Ellenton Ridge Roads meet. I followed the forest road to the west, which was often wet. The road passed through a logged area, but then entered more scenic forests, spruce groves, and a mossy wetland with blood red pitcher plants. I soon reached the Old Loggers Path at Buck Run; I would return to this spot later in my hike. I followed the OLP for a short distance, but then turned left onto the Crandalltown Trail, an unblazed grade. This obvious grade took me across the OLP and I continued to the right onto another unmarked, obvious grade. This grade took me along some giant boulders. One was adorned with moss and had trees growing out of it.
The grade was a very nice hike as it traversed the southern edge of the plateau, passing small fern meadows. Through the trees I could see over Pleasant Stream’s valley. I loved the isolation of this route. I soon reached a small, unnamed stream. My bushwhack began.
I suspected there was a waterfall down this creek. The terrain was very steep and I soon came upon a rugged grotto and a scenic 40 foot falls. The top part of the falls was framed by cliffs of fractured rock. I continued down the steep gorge where there were more boulders and cascades, but no more falls. If hiking to the falls, I would not suggest going further downstream below the falls due to the rugged terrain. I made the arduous climb out of the gorge and retraced my steps back to Buck Run.
The next part of my hike was an off trail exploration of Buck Run. It is a very scenic stream. The gorge has many large boulders and cascades. As I descended, the creek became a gauntlet of boulders and rapids. There were countless cascades. Large cliffs then rose on the north side of the creek, creating an impressive gorge. Scars of landslides from recent floods appeared in places. While Buck Run doesn’t have the sizeable waterfalls, it is still a very scenic place. I hiked out of Buck Run by climbing to the top of the cliff; there were some partial views. I made my way up Buck Run, returned to the OLP, and retraced my steps to the car in twilight.
I hope to return to this area to explore the giant rocks and cliffs that cover the top of Sullivan Mountain’s plateau.
I parked at 41.523299, -76.869160.
View this post on Instagram
Big hemlocks along the Crandalltown Trail this morning.
A post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Dec 23, 2018 at 4:22pm PST
View this post on Instagram
On an unnamed trail off of the Old Loggers Path.
A post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Dec 23, 2018 at 4:29pm PST
View this post on Instagram
A post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Dec 23, 2018 at 4:47pm PST
View this post on Instagram
Waterfalls and huge conglomerate boulders on an unnamed tributary of Pleasant Stream.
A post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Dec 23, 2018 at 4:51pm PST
View this post on Instagram
Giant oak with some old chicken of the woods.
A post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Dec 23, 2018 at 4:58pm PST
View this post on Instagram
I then hiked down Buck Run, a wild, rugged creek filled with giant boulders and cascades.
A post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Dec 23, 2018 at 5:06pm PST
View this post on Instagram
This shows just how rugged Buck Run is, there are car sized boulders down there.
A post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Dec 23, 2018 at 5:10pm PST
View this post on Instagram
Down in the impressive gorge of Buck Run. An untamed place.
A post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Dec 23, 2018 at 5:14pm PST
View this post on Instagram
On the Old Loggers Path, a great 28 mile loop.
A post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Dec 24, 2018 at 6:39am PST
January 23, 2019
Hiking the Ziegler and Gardner Spencer Preserves-Countryside Conservancy
[image error]
Over the years, the Countryside Conservancy has protected land and established trails, primarily in the Tunkhannock Creek watershed. Several of its preserves surround Lackawanna State Park, including the Ziegler and Gardner Spencer Preserves, which adjoin one another.
The small parking area is at the Ziegler Preserve. The trails at both preserves are for hiking and mountain biking; be sure to give riders the right of way. The trails are not named, and only the trails in the Ziegler Preserve are marked with occasional blue arrows. However, all trails are well established. One concern is that there is a web of interconnecting trails, which can make navigation difficult. Thankfully, many trail junctures had laminated maps to show the location.
Our hike began along stone walls and small ledges as we gradually climbed. We kept making right hand turns until we entered the Gardner Spencer Preserve, which featured meadows and some views. The trails in the Gardner Spencer Preserve were professionally built for mountain bikes with sloped and banked trails. We passed the foundation of a barn and descended the meadow into a hemlock glen.
The glen was very scenic with a babbling stream and ledges. Hemlocks covered the canopy with deep green boughs. A sign said there was a hiking only trail, but it was tough to follow with the snow. After enjoying the creek, we retraced our steps to the mountain bike trail as it continued under hemlocks and climbed back up through the meadow.
We then followed trails to the left which led us into the highlight of our hike-Tunnel Vision. Here, a trail was cut into a grove of spruce trees, creating a tunnel effect. It was beautiful, and a nice change from the meadows and hardwood forests. We left the spruce grove, crossed another stone wall and made a right. Here, was the next highlight-a loop that descended into a beautiful hemlock grove above a small stream. The forest was adorned with sandstone ledges. A beautiful, serene place that should not be missed.
Our hike continued along some ledges and then descended to a series of interconnecting rock walls. We continued to descend into the Ziegler Preserve and then climbed to hike along an impressively large rock wall under hemlocks. We circled around, passing trails that went into the Lackawanna State Park, and descended to where we began.
This was an excellent hike and I will surely return to hike more of the trails in the summer and fall. The diversity was great, with stately hardwood forests, stone walls, ledges, meadows, views, streams, and Tunnel Vision. I’m sure there are a lot of wildflowers in summer throughout the meadows and the preserves looked ideal for birdwatching.
Thanks to all the volunteers who made these trails a reality.
Parking is at 41.582394, -75.693586. Do not block the private driveway entrance.
View this post on Instagram
A post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Jan 19, 2019 at 11:50am PST
View this post on Instagram
Tunnel Vision, Gardner Spencer Preserve, owned by the Countryside Conservancy. Great hike.
A post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Jan 19, 2019 at 11:07am PST
View this post on Instagram
Gardner Spencer Preserve, Countryside Conservancy.
A post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Jan 19, 2019 at 11:57am PST
View this post on Instagram
Trail among the pines, Gardner Spencer Preserve, Countryside Conservancy.
A post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Jan 19, 2019 at 12:01pm PST
View this post on Instagram
Tunnel Vision is awesome. Gardner Spencer Preserve, Countryside Conservancy.
A post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Jan 19, 2019 at 12:06pm PST
View this post on Instagram
A post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Jan 19, 2019 at 12:15pm PST
View this post on Instagram
A post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Jan 19, 2019 at 12:24pm PST
View this post on Instagram
A post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Jan 19, 2019 at 12:31pm PST
View this post on Instagram
A post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Jan 19, 2019 at 12:40pm PST
View this post on Instagram
Hemlock glen, Gardner Spencer Preserve, Countryside Conservancy.
A post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Jan 20, 2019 at 7:52am PST
View this post on Instagram
Stone walls, Ziegler Preserve, Countryside Conservancy.
A post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Jan 20, 2019 at 8:02am PST
January 21, 2019
Shingle Cabin Branch Falls-Ricketts Glen State Park
Red are off trail routes.
Ricketts Glen is a very popular state park, known for its famous Falls Trail. But there is so much more to this large park. There are off trail vistas, secret gorges, and hidden waterfalls. Hopefully, the park will expand its system of hiking trails just as Worlds End has done.
On this hike, we did a loop of approximately five miles that went up the Old Bulldozer Road Trail, off trail to a vista, and then off trail down the rugged gorge of Shingle Cabin Branch. We then crossed chilly Kitchen Creek and hiked out along the Falls Trail.
The Old Bulldozer Road Trail is blazed red and follows an old grade or forest road up the mountain. It was a steady climb, steep in places, and featured primarily open hardwoods with laurel. The trail steepened as we neared the top and hiked along some ledges. At the top, the trail leveled and here we began our bushwhack to the east along the ridgeline. As we neared a private land boundary, there were some nice views to the south from ledges. If some trees were trimmed, the views would be spectacular. The views showed tiers of ridges to the south, and a water gap near Shickshinny. It was an impressive view of about thirty miles.
We returned to the Old Bulldozer Road Trail as it entered thick laurel and crossed the headwaters of Shingle Cabin Branch. Here, we left the trail and descended into the rugged, beautiful gorge with cascades, boulders, and ledges. As we descended, we stayed on the north side of the creek where we encountered more cascades and some large old growth hemlock trees. Other hemlocks succumbed to the woolly adelgid. We soon reached the top of the impressive Shingle Cabin Branch Falls and made a steep descent to the bottom. The falls are in a beautiful grotto with tiers of bedrock and are about 35 feet tall. It is a hidden gem in Ricketts Glen, and only about 500 feet from Kitchen Creek. In winter, the ice flows must be impressive.
We hiked along Shingle Cabin Branch and reached Kitchen Creek below Murray Reynolds Falls. After crossing chilly Kitchen Creek, we hiked out along the sublime Falls Trail in the bright morning light. Kitchen Creek tumbled besides us, adorned with icicles, as we hiked under towering hemlock trees. Other hikers passed us, unaware of all the beauty that lies just off the trail. We returned to our cars and headed home.
We parked at 41.300336, -76.273014.
View this post on Instagram
Off trail vista, located off of the Old Bulldozer Road Trail. Thirty mile views.
A post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Dec 26, 2018 at 9:53am PST
View this post on Instagram
Waves of ridges. Ricketts Glen is a lot more than waterfalls.
A post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Dec 26, 2018 at 9:58am PST
View this post on Instagram
Views from Ricketts Glen State Park. Looking towards the gap at Shickshinny.
A post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Dec 26, 2018 at 10:02am PST
View this post on Instagram
Ryan on the Old Bulldozer Road Trail before our off trail descent of Shingle Cabin Branch.
A post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Dec 26, 2018 at 10:08am PST
View this post on Instagram
Shingle Cabin Branch was beautiful.
A post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Dec 26, 2018 at 10:13am PST
View this post on Instagram
A post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Dec 26, 2018 at 10:18am PST
View this post on Instagram
Impressive 35 foot falls on Shingle Cabin Branch.
A post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Dec 26, 2018 at 10:21am PST
View this post on Instagram
A post shared by Jeff Mitchell-Outdoors Author (@hiking_mitch) on Dec 26, 2018 at 6:12pm PST
Jeff Mitchell's Blog
- Jeff Mitchell's profile
- 3 followers
