Hike the Eiger/Log Slide Loop-Pine Creek Gorge

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Hike the Eiger/Log Slide Loop-Pine Creek Gorge

Bull Run Vista, Pine Creek Gorge, Tiadaghton State Forest

Length: Approx. 3.5 miles

Parking: At the Tiadaghton State Forest district headquarters, 41.314481, -77.384649. Do not park along Lower Pine Bottom Road as there is no space.

Highlights: Beautiful view, old quarries, ledges, mountain laurel, historic log slide.

Issues: The climb is steep in sections.

Level of Challenge: Moderate to difficult

Trail conditions: Trails were in good condition.

Blazes: Lower Pine Trail is red, remainder of trails are yellow.

Description: The Pine Creek Gorge in the Tiadaghton State Forest is home to many hiking trails and this is one that should be on your list. Park at the forest headquarters which has its own views and wildflower meadows. If the building is open, be sure to check it out to see the displays and a balcony with a green roof and more views.

The red Lower Pine Trail begins at the end of the parking area and descends in a pine forest. Reach Lower Pine Bottom Run with a small cascade and hike the edge of the giant arched concrete culvert. Reach Lower Pine Bottom Road and turn right. Hike up the road a short distance. Turn left at a trail sign, which calls the Eiger Trail the “Quadfather”, you’ll soon see why. Hike behind a cabin and reach the beginning of the loop, continue on the Eiger Trail as it follows an old grade through laurel. The grade steepens as it climbs the flank of the mountain. Begin to pass old quarries and ledges.

The trail eases as it follows the grade along the steep slope of the mountain. I liked this part as the trail offered such forgiving tread across steep terrain. The forested slopes just fall away. Reach a large quarry and more ledges. The ledges continue before the trail begins a series of well built switchbacks up through the laurel.

Finally, the trail levels off at the top and you soon reach Bull Run Vista, an impressive view of the Pine Creek Gorge. The vast plateau is incised with many gorges and glens. Pine Creek is about 1,200 feet below.

Now begin the Log Slide Trail through mountain laurel. This trail would be beautiful in late June when the laurel blooms. The trail then begins its descent on an old log slide, which is somewhat gradual. Hike through groves of hemlocks with moss. Pass an old stone retaining wall for the slide. Reach the end of the loop and retrace your steps. The Log Slide Trail is easier than Eiger, but both are worth hiking.