Also, I wouldve brought a bit more tape for my blisters. If I do this trail again I'll probably wear higher ankle boots (the ones I wore were low) to provide more stability on the rocky portions. The climb up to Alpine seemed never-ending, I even said out loud, I just want to be done! This was the second time I questioned myself and my capabilities. A long gradual climb follows. In my last few steps on the trail, I told myself to let it go. It is important that all hikers help to prevent contamination (human waste, garbage, and wash water) of all water along the LT. Water should be boiled, filtered or chemically treated before use. The Wind Whistle Inn was the casino of a nearby hotel, now gone. A couple of impressive vistas come after mile 35: Alpine View follows a rare switchback climb, and Loyalsock Canyon Vista is the first reward within Worlds End State Park. Amenities: Worlds End State Park office has a modern restroom and running water. My feet were aching, and I could feel a blister forming. Descend and then climb again, passing some giant rocks. It is recommended that you use the most current (20th) edition. This trail is amazing. The beginning 5 or so miles is not for beginners or people that are really out of shape. The LT is blazed with yellow disks having red LT letters in the center. The Haystack Trail climbed away from Loyalsock Creek and intersected with the old railroad grade at 3 miles into the hike. A steep descent continues to a parking area on Little Bear Creek Road. Very challenging for a 60+ hiker but very enjoyable. Known as one of the most beautiful long distance hiking trails in the Mid-Atlantic region, the LT is between 3-4 hours of Pittsburgh, Philadelphia, NYC, Baltimore and Washington DC. -Make sure you wear trail running shoes. The buyer pays the same price as they would otherwise, and your purchase helps to support The Trek's ongoing goal to serve you quality backpacking advice and information. The parking lot is 0.2 miles up Mead Road from Rt. The gorge is very scenic. Stopping at vistas, snacks and water filling by creeks, and so on included. Keep in mind, I hiked in long pants in early August--which was a good choice because there are extended sections on the trail where you'll be hiking through some kind of nettle (not urtica dioica) that even got me through my pants a few times. The trail becomes even steeper as you descend a ledge. The creek was rushing and beautiful this morning. The patch and a guide published in the PAHikes Trail Guide Series is available at KTA's Bookstore. V= vista. Youre in Pennsylvania, so expect lots of forest and rocky terrain. Still visible are old 2" X 6" rectangular yellow paint blazes with a 1" horizontal red stripe. The LTs unforgiving ups and downs made me question my capabilities and strength - from the weather changes to the blisters, through laughs and memories, reaching almost 11,000 in elevation gain, this was the hardest trail I have ever hiked. I have been camping and hiking as long as I can remember. Today would include an eight mile walk through Kettle Creek Natural Area, a windy lunch at High Knob Vista, Rode Falls, and the sketchy backwards climb down the ladder into Ketchum Run. Hunting is currently not permitted on Sundays. Day 1: Hiking to Angel Falls & Kettle Creek Vista. It is worth checking when those races are scheduled as youre planning your hike. One of the newest trails in the park, Cold Run Trail, is sure to become a favorite among visitors. If you plan to hike for more than one day, please provide the following emergency information to Loyalsock State Forest: Name, address, home and emergency phone numbers, trail name, hiking locations, dates on the trail, number of people, vehicle description: color, make, model and license number, Loyalsock State Forest Thats unfortunate, because not only is it a wonderful scenic trail, its also a great way to get an end-to-end thru-hike under your belt in relatively short time. A local told me that the Lower Alpine view is known for having many, many rattlesnakes so dont recommend camping there. I decided in that moment to put all my trust into mother nature. Began on 7/24 and finished on 7/27. Descend to the campground at LT mile 44.17, turning right on Canyon Vista Trail (blue blazes). The dates for our open work hikes on the Loyalsock Trail will be the following Sundays: Anyone interested in attending the work hikes, please e-mail David Dahl. Route 220 on the east side and Route 42 on the west.. No conditions reported in the past 7 days. This was going to be a great day! Sadly we tapped out after day 2 . The Loyalsock Trail is a linear 59.2-mile footpath located near Williamsport, Pennsylvania. The trail marker is a yellow disk with a large red X. Leaving mile 22. You may also contact WESP at 570.924.3287 or [emailprotected]. We also need volunteers to drag brush, etc. We smelled smoke from a fire, so we knew he was close. This 59-mile trail passes through the rugged forested mountains and valleys of the Loyalsock State Forest. It is easily accessible, and fairly a gentile trail, however, the beginning is still a relatively rocky and will require some initial effort. I slept so well the previous night though, that I had some extra energy. Did entire trail in 4 days. There was a long stretch of road walking and no water sources ahead of us. I arranged things with work and home so I could take 5 days off in May (after the snow melt and before the summer heat). Rapid ups in downs in elevation because we were hiking straight across a bunch of steep ridges. Loyalsock Trail, one of the best point-to-point remote backpacking trails in the state, and the complete Old Loggers Path, a 27 mi. Loyalsock State Forest. You may encounter an open 3 foot deep ditch. I find it hilarious when people on these apps take away stars because the trail was muddy or rocky or anything else that just naturally exists in the forest and is inherently an aspect of the activity that they signed up for! 27 trails on an interactive map of the trail network. This is the only point on the trail where I lost my footing and hit the deck. This was the first of the many moments to come when I questioned if I was cut out for this thru-hike. To order the new Guide from its various sales sources, please visit or Order Guides webpage: Order 20th Edition. We hiked at the end of June and found the initial 12-15 miles to be quite overgrown with grass, ferns, stinging nettle, and rhododendron. Respect the water, Nice view when not overgrown. As far as the wildlife goes, I seen the biggest timber rattlesnake I ever seen. All of the intermittent streams were dry but we had no trouble getting enough water from the perrenial streams. It's lovely parting gift almost like it was telling us thanks for hiking me! The three of us finished together. Territory we were both familiar with. If you hike at a decent pace 1.5-2mph and dont stop constantly for long breaks you can easily bang out 15-20 miles from 9am-6pm leaving plenty of time for enjoying the views and the fun campsite aspects of backpacking. GPS was malfunctioning on Day 1 but days 2&3 averaged 6k+ of ascents each day. She loves the green tunnel of Pennsylvania trails and will never stop being enchanted by the lush ferns. In high water, this is a problem. Descend to a highlight of the trail, gorgeous Ketchum Run. Opening 'Loyalsock Trail - Forestry Trail Guide 8-5x14' (2 MB). There is no camping on this section for over six miles, and there can be almost nine miles between water sources, depending on conditions. Once you cross Worlds End Road there will be two sites on your left and a small one on the right in some ferns along Double Run. After getting cleaned up in the creek, setting up camp and eating dinner, I attempted to read a chapter in my book, Liz looked over the Lizard Map to get an idea what we would be facing the next day - and we were both asleep by 8PM. Loyalsock State Forest includes portions of: Sullivan County Lycoming County Bradford County The forest spans the northern tier's "Endless Mountains" region and primarily consists of northern hardwoods forest type. An old cemetery is just off trail. The trail is extremely easy to navigate and well marked. We rock climbed a little place down towards Gettysburg called white rocks and I seen Jay free climg the face to set up our belay lines. Was thinking of hiking Memorial day week but I dont want to risk Jax from injury. Mountain laurel is common along the trail and blooms in mid to late June. The LT levels and then drops down to PA 87 and the western terminus. Want to report conditions for this trail? At one point we had a great view of were we had hiked from and I finally understood why the hiking was so hard. Some of the best pa has to offer. Great trail! Following is info via the Races' Facebook link. The trail takes advantage of long-abandoned timber roads and railroad grades, reminders of the logging industry. Land Designation and Camping: This trail is mostly on state forest land where primitive camping is permitted; however, there are a couple brief stretches that cross private land where camping is not allowed. Hats off to trail markers you did a job making this course easy to follow- wish there was an offical Start here sign !!! Blue dots are waterfalls or cascades. Got dropped off at west side trailhead and left my car at east end trailhead parking lot where there were plenty of spots midweek. Generally considered a challenging route, it takes an average of 7 h 32 min to complete. This trail has everything. Hike along the ridge and then descend. But then I took in theview when you reach the top:a sea of never-ending green and cloudy skies. The western miles are more challenging, though, so you might consider allocating more miles on later days if hiking northeast. Hikers are on their own and assume their own liability. Sunday 8am - 12:30pm 12 miles Campfires: Are not permitted at the Haystack Rapids and can be restricted along the entire trail at other times of the year. The largest water crossing is Kettle Creek, which was tame in early summer but potentially trickier in rainy spring months. We also had a couple encounters with foraging black bears interested in our campsite late at night. Loyal Sock, Double Run Nature, Link Trail and Canyon Vista Loop, Loyalsock Link Trail and Haystacks and Dutchman Falls, Double Run, East Branch, Loyalsock and Canyon Vista Trails Loop. Though there are a fair amount of water crossings, most are small and you may be able to rock-hop all of them save the final oneover Loyalsock Creek, where a car/pedestrian bridge is provided. Loyalsock Creek, Haystack Rapid, Bear Wallow Pond, Sones Pond, historic CCC camps, numerous waterfalls, cascades and vistas throughout the trails system and roads Covers the 59 mi. Cross the bridge and follow the road. The Park Office is at LT mile 45.96. Hiked the full 60 miles over 5 days. The rapids are ideal for swimming in summer and can be busy on weekends. Enter Worlds End State Park (backpack camping is not allowed in the state park) and reach High Rock Vista. All people hiking the LT do so at their own risk. -Mud, mud, mud! Bring a walking stick. The trail is steep, levels and passes Helens Window, another great view. Loyalsock Trail and Link Trail Loop hard (222) Worlds End State Park Photos(1,626) Directions Print/PDF Map Share More Get to know this 16.5-mile loop trail near Forksville, Pennsylvania. The trail passes Marys View and then descends to Dutters Run with several falls and stream crossings. . The LT enters private land, camping is not permitted for over six miles and there is about a 5 mile roadwalk. Completing 18 miles on day one, we shared the campsite with two self-identified Jersey Boys, who wed occasionally see on and off throughout the trek. Descend steeply to Kettle Creek, another highlight. It is about 1.8 miles from Route 42 to Eagles Mere Park. This group was created to share information, experiences, etc. Planning on thru hiking this trail with my son and possibly one daughter in the summer of 2018; maybe around July 4th weekend. I saw no bears or rattlesnakes, though I saw one rattlesnake skin. On may 18th 2020 this was the very first hiking trail I ever did and it was fantastic. Send the info by email to the Loyalsock State Forest office. We got behind on day one (only 8 miles) and had to catch up 15 miles on day 2. An ideal place to cache food is along Dry Run Road. I brought the Loyalsock guide/maps which offered some additional info on the areas I hiked thru. The LT was amazing. A blue side trail to the right descends to the bottom of Dutchman Falls. It is rocky and muddy and while the elevation is not that challenging the footing will certainly test any level hiker. Just go there prepared to test your endurance. 6735 Route 220 Well blazed throughout. Smith Knob gives you the first panoramic view of the Loyalsock Valley shortly after mile 6, a welcome break following another brief but heel-busting climb. The state park section takes you down a rocky canyon, eventually passing a visitors center (theres a snack shop nearby) and ending with a steep scramble up to High Rock Vista. In true "hiker trash" form, we spread our belongings out all over a picnic table, aired our dirty feet out, had a hot lunch and a much-needed mid-day rest. BE prepared for rocky terrain and lots of mud. The dirt road follows the Towanda Path, an Iroquois trade route later used by soldiers in the War of 1812, and runaway slaves. A map for people who love the outdoors. Reach the top with large boulders and ledges. This detour will add about 0.73 miles of additional hiking, if you are hiking the entire Link Trail or the LT-Link Loop. I hiked the trail the conventional eastbound way and had my car parked in the Dutchman Falls/Haystacks lot, clocking 22.5 miles the first day, 19 the second and finished out with an easy 17 on Sunday. Trail runners are required to be aware of and to respect the presence of all hikers, and hikers are recommended to allow right-of-way to trail runners. For your safety and the safety of all Trail Runners, all hikers need to be aware of the dates of those Runs and the general segments of the LT which will be affected on the respective dates. We recommend using this most recent Edition, if you are doing any longer-term hikes, especially thru hikes. Map 2- Worlds End State Park Office to Ketchum Run (13 miles). And lots of wine. Also, I would rate it as difficult and not moderate. related to the 59.2-mile Loyalsock Trail (LT) in Lycoming County, PA. Some sections (e.g. This loop is 5-6 miles long. Get to know this 56.4-mile point-to-point trail near Dushore, Pennsylvania. . Descents became harder as the miles ticked away. Prior to each date, you will receive a follow up e-mail to confirm attendance. Angel Falls, reached via a short side trail at mile 23, is a must-visit. Great water source at painter run trail head, Highland lake manor corporation private club, Beautiful! For more detail, review the following course maps: On Saturday June 10, between 9:00am and approximately 11:00am, the LT welcomes the Smith Knob Scramble. Its about 45 minutes from one trailhead to the other by car. The scenic and challenging Loyalsock Trail runs roughly parallel to its namesake creek. Day 3 was incredible. It utilizes the Loyalsock Trail (LT) and the Link Trail (also known as Red-X 6 Trail.) Also, any recs for a booking agency for huts would be appreciated. Difficulty: The LT is known as a difficult trail with many climbs, steep terrain, and streams without bridges. This map can be a valuable tool for those planning hikes on the Loyalsock Trail. Cross both branches of Double Run and begin a climb among boulders. His favorite place to camp was Alpine Vista, so Liz and I filled up on water at Ketchum Run and headed up to camp. Day 4 finished around 1:30 pm after 12 miles. The trail levels with hemlocks and small streams. old rail beds, rock scramble, and dirt roads. Trail running: The LT and connecting trails host a couple of trail run races every year. The LT passes the Highlands Manor restaurant. Overgrowth: In less-traveled western parts of the trail you should expect dense rhododendron, overgrown grass, and other vegetation. When we have a better idea of what they are doing, we will put in a permanent reroute that will keep us away from the new gas road. The Loyalsock Trail is a 59.2-mile point-to-point hike in north-central Pennsylvania that spans forested ridges, scenic streams, and historic logging roads. Unreserved sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Sightings of black bear, deer, porcupines, coyotes, eagles, and otters are not unusual. Also, its always good to support your trail associations and Im sure that the Alpine Club of Williamsport would love to get paid for the hard work that they put into keeping the guidebook current. You may be trying to access this site from a secured browser on the server. Double blazes warn of an upcoming change in direction of the trail. Descend to Cape Run with cascades and falls. Pass a fine campsite and then climb out of the gorge through large hardwood trees, particularly tulip poplar. When I think back on what I might have done differently for this trip, all I can think of is I might have taken just a bit longer to linger at some of the truly special places along the way. Thruhiking the LT will be an experience you wont forget and is a perfect prep hike for longer trails, like the Long Trail or Appalachian Trail. We recommend that you wear or carry long pants since you may encounter briars or nettles on sections of the trail.

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