Worlds End State Park provides access to the Loyalsock Trail as well as several other shorter trails. Angel Falls, reached via a short side trail at mile 23, is a must-visit. Double blazes warn of an upcoming change in direction of the trail. Works End Park is a very easy last leg of the trail and a wonderful way to see the natural beauty of that region. Ill check on the Facebook group too. In high water, this is a problem. Change). We didnt include the first five miles today, as we both had hiked them a few days prior. 87 end decent was brutal in the dark. These trails are blazed with solid blue disks. The campground opens the second Friday in April and closes at the end of regular deer season in early December. Camping is downstream. We went west to east and of course, at this time of year, you're going to have a bit more mud on this trail. Cross Worlds End Road and continue a climb near a spruce forest. Change), You are commenting using your Facebook account. . Hike offerings will appear on the Activity Schedule page of this web site. Map legend: C= campsite or potential camping. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); shuttle information from the Alpine Club of Williamsport. Hey Im planning on this one this summer 2019, Planning on a bus out from NYC through hike (Ill give myself 6 days and try to take it easy!). Resupply: There are no readily available places to resupply on the trail. Trail guide and maps: available for sale from the Alpine Club of Williamsport. The LT was first established in 1951, making it one of the older backpacking trails in the country. If youre not down with doing over 20 miles on the first day, camp at the site at mile 14 before you get to the clearing because theres not another until roughly mile 22. It passes through parts of the Loyalsock State Forest for most of its 59.21 miles. ByKatie Anspach, hiker, single mom, adventurer, Sign up to get the latest on sales, new releases and more . The first day was my least favorite as a lot of it, approximately 6 miles is spent walking on a hard packed gravel road, good for time, bad for overall experience of the hike. It passes through Theodore Roosevelt National Park and features stark landscapes, abundant wildlife, and unique geological formations., Death Valley Cottonwood-Marble Canyon Loop, CA, Smoky Mountains National Park Loop, NC / TN, Point-to-point trail (shuttle service available). Downstream is Gipson Falls. -This is a very nice trail for all levels; strong hikers can complete it in two full summer days, beginners take as many as 6 or 7 days. NO OPEN FIRES on the LT from March 1 to May 25, and October 1 to December 1. I know I went a little past the Park Office but it seems All-Trails is a little loner than they suggest. 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. I generally prefer to camp creekside for this reason. Best marked and maintained trail weve seen this year. Change), You are commenting using your Twitter account. You should be physically fit to hike the rough terrain. 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. On Saturday June 3, between 5:00am and Midnight, the LT will welcome the Worlds End Ultra Trail Runs. All hikers should be aware of the following tips and information: 2021 Alpine Club of Williamsport | Site by. Got dropped off at west side trailhead and left my car at east end trailhead parking lot where there were plenty of spots midweek. It shows all the state, local and forestry roads, and State Forest hiking Trails, including a bird's eye view of the entire Loyalsock Trail. Permits: No permit is necessary to hike the Loyalsock Trail, but it is recommended that you provide emergency information and dates on trail to Loyalsock State Forest if youre hiking for multiple days. This beautiful stretch of Creek is almost like going to a water park, as the undulating rock bottom and the round haystack rock formations that give that part of the creek is name, create fast moving channels that one can sit and get swept down stream as if it was a water slide. Sones Pond looked like a very nice to camp as well with plenty of flat, pine needle-bed spots right next to the pond. 6735 Route 220 The LT follows mountain ridges and streams through the Loyalsock Creek watershed as it travels through the woods on footpaths, old logging roads and abandoned railroad grades. By Leah Wynalek, 2021 Loyalsock Trail Hiker. Cross PA 154 and begin a long climb. His favorite place to camp was Alpine Vista, so Liz and I filled up on water at Ketchum Run and headed up to camp. My feet were aching, and I could feel a blister forming. -I saw a huge black bear about 40 ft in front of me just waddling along. We pushed bedtime tonight to 8:30 p.m., not flipping a single page in our books. I chose to push on to Mineral Springs where there is a really nice little spot right on the east branch of Double Run at the foot of the descent, there are a few more once you cross Mineral Spring Road right before you get to the register. Completed the Loyalsock in 3 days last week. It is a beautiful stream with many falls, slides, cascades, and a unique mini-gorge of fractured rock. -I recommend going from east to west as you want to go up the steep rocky section past World's End State Park and not down. We also need volunteers to drag brush, etc. By later that day, it had to have been pushing 90 and humid, I was feeling nauseous and exhausted around 15 miles on the Genesee Trail. 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. Now climb up Petes Hollow with cascades and rocky terrain. These trail races are very popular. Another great site under canopy. Any thoughts on that. Other issues: Stinging nettle is an issue on sections of the trail in summer. One nasty boulder climb. Youre in Pennsylvania, so expect lots of forest and rocky terrain. Alpine Club membership is open to anyone over the age of 18. It follows mountain ridges and alongside streams, and also passes a few lakes and ponds. I brought the Loyalsock guide/maps which offered some additional info on the areas I hiked thru. Its very detailed, featuring maps, historical information, mileages, and campsite suggestions. On old railroad grade sections, watch for large roots on trail. Great trail! 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. The 55-mile Teton Loop is an alternative to the popular Teton Crest Trail, with fewer logistical hurdles, and an opportunity to experience the full diversity of Grand Teton National Park. Direction of hiking: Most hikers go from west to east. definitely glad I had my poles too, great to the falls, hiked in ANOTHER snowstorm (got 12 inches) couldn't see where we were stepping at all so took the cheater way up to the road. ALLTRAILS and the AllTrails Mountain Design are registered trademarks of AllTrails, LLC in the United States as well as certain other jurisdictions. Although the geographic and physical itinerary of the LT has not changed significantly, there have been some residually minor corrections to mileage and altitude, and the beginning Table of Contents has gone through some reorganization. Also, I wouldve brought a bit more tape for my blisters. Liz and I met at 8:00 a.m. at the eastern terminus parking lot located in Laporte, PA. We shuttled over to the western entrance where we started our climb to Smiths Knob. The climb directly after passing the visitors center is pretty rough as it goes up over 800 in two miles. There will be signs posted at the affected waypoints, so please be alert to that signage when hiking the Link Trail in that area. Great water source at painter run trail head, Highland lake manor corporation private club, Beautiful! Western trailhead: PA-87, Williamsport, PA Eastern trailhead: Mead Rd., Dushore, PA The Loyalsock Trail is a footpath which begins on route PA87 and end along route US220. Planning on thru hiking this trail with my son and possibly one daughter in the summer of 2018; maybe around July 4th weekend. As for the Loyalsock it is truly a gem of a trail and depending on your fitness level should be approached in 3-5 days. The trail is steep, levels and passes Helens Window, another great view. The LT in that area is currently a muddy mess and the trees that formerly held our LT markers are gone. Please e-mail David Dahl or Matthew Gutberlet with any questions. PGE gas is currently in the process of creating space for a gas pipeline and road on the Bryan Hay Trail (Road) which shares space with the Loyalsock Trail on mile 3.38 - 3.60. 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. Testing myself, mentally and physically and to get a fresh perspective. Once on the old grade we hiked it east for another 0.8 miles before the trail turned right and climbed up the hill. Youll continue on to the Petes Hollow descent which is incredibly slippery and quite treacherous if even moderately wet, so take your time. The Alpine Club has placed new LT markers on both sides of the trail to aid hikers continuing on the Trail. What would theLoyalsockTrail be without one more climb? This was the first of the many moments to come when I questioned if I was cut out for this thru-hike. Referencing our Alpine Club book andPurple LizardLoyalsockMap, we made plans about where to stop for lunch and camp that night, and made note of certain things wed expect see throughout the day. Sones Pond is incredible and if youre looking for a sweet spot to camp has multiple sites right there on the shore. Hiked the full 60 miles over 5 days. 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. Territory we were both familiar with. Old paint blazes are being replaced with small disks. The Alpine Club of Williamsports Loyalsock Trail Guide is a must-have, and comes in a rustic-looking cover. Day 2 was a lovely hike through Kettle Creek, up to High Knob, along Ketchum Run, up to the Alpine Views and on to the border of WESP. From there, Link will pick up where it currently is marked at Link Mile 0.60. Ideal time to hike: Fall colors are usually peak in mid October. Climb to Kettle Creek Gorge Vista, a beautiful view. Instead, the Link Trail will follow the Loyalsock Trail (LT), from the WESP Visitor's Center at LT Mile 45.96 and head (after crossing Rte.154) up to LT Mile 44.63. 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. 220. The rest of the day was nice but, like I said not my favorite terrain so I kept it moving. The Loyalsock is a forest I love and know well and the through hike is a challenge I have wanted to take on for a long time. Tons of beautiful scenery, especially in the last 15 miles (or first if you're going west to east). Dushore PA 18614, Main Office Hours: Monday - Friday, 8:00am - 4:00pm. Keep in mind that there are many stream crossings, which could be more difficult after snow melt or during rainy months. The beginning 5 or so miles is not for beginners or people that are really out of shape. If you prefer to drive one car, The Alpine Club of Williamsport lists a shuttle service on their website and also recommends connecting with local trail angels through the LT Public Facebook Group. 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. Started at 220 on the road at Mead rd entrance- Overgrown in July - waist high ferns - overgrown trails made it tough to run ( cuz you could see your feet) views were spectacular ( so were the climbs to get to the views) finishing on Rte. Trail is very well marked with lots of signage and easy to see blazes. From mile 22 on, keep your eyes open for blue-blazed side trails so you dont miss the waterfall views, and get ready to cross more streams as well. Would recommend 5-6 days if not in top shape. The Loyalsock Trail joins the Loyalsock Canyon Vista Trail and both trails continue north for 1.33 miles to Loyalsock Canyon Vista. Area along Loyalsock at the eastern end of trail was very crowded with day hikers and day loungers considering it was midweek. Parked by rt 220 and got shuttled to mile marker 1. Descend to a highlight of the trail, gorgeous Ketchum Run. This 59-mile trail passes through the rugged forested mountains and valleys of the Loyalsock State Forest. The largest stream crossing is Kettle Creek, about 20-30 feet across. With an easier day of 14 miles, we planned a very long lunch break at the park. 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. (LogOut/ An emotional moment I wont forget. Maps & Guides The Alpine Club of Williamsport's Loyalsock Trail Guide is a must-have, and comes in a rustic-looking cover. I was 18 years old and I had been a troubled youth, as far as law enforcement is concerned. More Information: You may encounter an open 3 foot deep ditch. Also, if you are planning on doing the trail during dry season water sources can be scarce so plan accordingly. Descend gradually along Little Painter Run and then climb up to another LT highlight, Smiths Knob. Generally speaking, there are established sites at the best places to camp, and most of the sites have water sources nearby. This group was created to share information, experiences, etc. The LT passes the Highlands Manor restaurant. Other websites: Loyalsock State Forest, Worlds End State Park. Can hear falls n creek below, Limited camping options & unreliable water sources, Very cool trail section, narrow trail runs parallel to creek, Campsite near water source, respect the water, Campsite near water. Hike through beautiful hemlock forests. Get to know this 56.4-mile point-to-point trail near Dushore, Pennsylvania. Before the last climb, I took one more glance at the water and smelled the pine that surrounded me. There was a long stretch of road walking and no water sources ahead of us. The views from the certain lookout points were amazing. The Loyalsock State Forest comprises 115,000 acres in Bradford, Lycoming and Sull ivan counties. The fastest known finish time appears to be an absurd 13 hours and 32 minutes, though most of us arent in that kind of shape. Cross Ketchum Run (two more falls are upstream, off trail) and climb to Split Rock, which are giant boulders. When the trail intersects the rail road grade, you can turn left and take the path with the yellow LT blazes to the rapids. Another crossing at Ketchum Run leads you to more waterfalls accessible by ladder or bypass trail. old rail beds, rock scramble, and dirt roads. There are many rattlesnakes and plenty boulders to break your ankles on. Fires are not permitted here. Some sections (e.g. Once you do get across Ogdonia and walk along the creek youll find a nice site there and then after the climb there are a couple up by Angel Falls. An ideal place to cache food is along Dry Run Road. The area around Sones seemed to be the most probable spot to see rattlers on the trail but luckily I didnt run across any. And he was bringing wine! From the Mead Road trailhead, the LT makes a rocky descent to an old railroad grade and turns left on the grade. If you prefer steep descents, hike west. I held my breath with each up and down, stopping every so often to let out some tears. To learn more, please visit the About This Site page. We hiked 5 miles of the toughest terrain I had ever seen at that point in my life. The Haystacks, near the end of the trail. I am a very experienced hiker and was able to fall only 5 times over the two days. Route 220 on the east side and Route 42 on the west.. No conditions reported in the past 7 days. Ecommerce Software by Shopify, Katie Anspach, hiker, single mom, adventurer. However, the Western trailhead only has parking for a few cars, so get there early if you want a spot. The trail levels with hemlocks and small streams. -Mud, mud, mud! Some of the best pa has to offer. Check with the Pennsylvania Game Commissionfor exact dates. It is recommended that you use the most current (20th) edition. 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. These areas are all spelled out in the Alpine Clubs trail guide. Leah Wynalek is a writer, hiker, and runner from Philadelphia. The creek is beautiful. It was a great trail! The last sections near Worlds End State Park are exceptional;y breathtaking. Of all the trails that Ive hiked in Pennsylvania, the Loyalsock Trail is the king of all of them. These rate a trail sites can be funny sometimes because, like with all rating apps, its all about subjective experiences. It is about 1.8 miles from Route 42 to Eagles Mere Park. The LT starts on PA Route 87, 8.7 miles north of the Rt. They took us to the LT and I remember talking about it with the staff that was taking us on this expedition. Driving and Shuttle: We drove two cars from Philadelphia (just under 3 hours travel) and parked one at the Dutchman Falls lot, where there are plenty of spacesno overnight permit required. Started Saturday around 12:30 at the park, and finished Monday at about 4:30 at Rt. Nestled in the Endless Mountains, the Loyalsock Trail (known as the "LT") is a 56.4 mile through hike in Northeastern Pennsylvania. -Rocks aren't as large as some sections of the AT, they're rather small so they'll test your ankles rather than your knees. Then it was about a 40-minute drive to the western terminus, which is a smaller gravel pull-off that still provides space for multiple cars to park. I slept so well the previous night though, that I had some extra energy. and let me tell you this was absolutely true. I felt very guilty, like I was holding the other two back, but they were so patient with me and my broken-down feet. The Loyalsock Trail jtraverses state forests, a state park, and some private lands in north-central Pennsylvania. The Alpine Clubs guide has great information about distances between both. How Much Should Your Backpack Weigh on a Thru-Hike? Map 4- Brunnerdale Road to Western Terminus (PA 87) (22 miles). Make sure you are in great shape because I would rate this closer to difficult versus moderate. I jacked my knee up in the first 6 miles or so but continued on to complete the trail anyway. The trip itself was assume. View the map online, or to receive a copy, call or send a request to: Loyalsock State Forest 6735 Route 220 Dushore PA 18614 (570) 946-4049 Main Office Hours: Monday - Friday, 8:00am - 4:00pm I am capable of so much. The gorge is very scenic. The LT is an end-to-end trail and, for a fee, shuttle service can be provided. The last leg of the trail is absolutely stunning as you traverse the Loyalsock Creek at the haystacks. NO FIRES are permitted in the Haystacks Area at anytime. She loves the green tunnel of Pennsylvania trails and will never stop being enchanted by the lush ferns. It is a classic Pennsylvania backpacking trail. When I got to PA and discovered the extraordinary beauty of Pennsylvania landscapes and the vast expanse of the public forests here I was hooked I hit the trails, often alone, and havent stopped since. I hiked in October and my feet were wet for about 90% of the hike. It reminded me of the Appalachian Trail in Virginia. All in all, the Loyalsock was a nice mini thru hike for a pandemic. 15 miles camping right around mile 28. This is also the road walk section. Near the end of the hike, the Haystacks of Loyalsock Creek are a cool geological formation and a nice area to relax. The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime. 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. Also, I would rate it as difficult and not moderate. A local told me that the Lower Alpine view is known for having many, many rattlesnakes so dont recommend camping there. There are multiple vistas along Loyalsock trail, like Angel Falls (mile 23) a towering 80-foot waterfall that's accessible from the road if you're unwilling to hike the 60-mile trail, and Haystacks (mile 57) where an impressive class IV rapid cuts through the rock with icy mountain run-off. The LT levels and then drops down to PA 87 and the western terminus. The LT climbs steeply back to the grade at a seasonal waterfall. The bridle trail consists of two 25-mile loops, referred to as the East Loop and the West Loop, each beginning and ending at the trailhead along World's End Road (SR 3009). Loyalsock Trail A designated State Forest Hiking Trail, The Loyalsock Trail is for the more adventurous outdoor enthusiasts with hiking and backpacking in mind. (Still trying to figure out why the app stopped and restarted - all I can say is it was during a wicked thunderstorm,). It's lovely parting gift almost like it was telling us thanks for hiking me! The three of us finished together. You may be trying to access this site from a secured browser on the server. Enjoy three views, the best looks east up the Loyalsock Creek with dry camping. Near water source. 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.
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