Dayhike the Appalachian and South Trails Lollipop Loop

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Dayhike the Appalachian and South Trails Lollipop Loop

Rugged, beautiful South Trail

Length: Approx. 4 miles

Difficulty: Moderate, but very rocky and rugged in places.

Highlights: extensive views, boulder fields, giant rocks, Appalachian Trail (AT)

Parking: Small lots at about 40.769573, -75.694118 . I drove up Blue Mountain Road, it was in decent shape but a vehicle with some clearance is a good idea. I do not know about Ashfield Road.

Blazes: The AT is white, South Trail is blue

Issues: Rocks on the South Trail can be slippery when wet. South Trail is very rocky over boulders with some scrambling.

Description: This hike features some of the best views in southeastern PA. The South Trail is known for its extensive views, with one section having an almost alpine feel. In places you can see off both sides of the ridge. I believe in the future the AT will be routed along the South Trail. This hike also doesn’t have any big climbs, the terrain is rolling and level. But as noted, it is very rocky.

From the parking pull off, follow the AT north. It is a gradual climb through forests of oak and sassafras. Pass some dry campsites. Rock outcrops begin to appear off to the right. Reach the juncture with the South Trail at a sign, turn right. The trail ascends rock slopes and views begin to appear. Traverse the boulder fields and see some large outcrops, one is like a pedestal, another is a jutting fin of rock. Views are everywhere. Reach the top of the rock slope, my favorite spot, with views off both sides of the ridge, it has an alpine feel to it. There are large ledges and non stop views. We had fun scrambling over the rocks and ledges.

Descend on the South Trail into the woods. The trail is often still rocky. There continue to be views looking south. The South Trail rejoins with the AT, turn left on it. (If you want more views, turn right on the AT and hike for 1.5 or 2 miles for excellent views over the turnpike tunnel and Palmerton).

The AT back to the car is much less rocky than the South Trail, passes along small meadows and pine groves with dry campsites. Pass the first juncture with the South Trail and hike down to your car.