Name: Ben                                                                                                                Hike: Tuscarora - Standing Stone Loop
Date: 1/21-22/12                                                                                                   Rating: 5

Critique: We did this hike in January as an overnight backpack. We camped in the "narrows" that you reach by continuing on the Standing Stone trail north from the point where you turn around to meet the Tuscarora trail. This hike was wonderful. The hike along the Standing Stone trail was beautiful in the snow and with the leaves off of the trees there were constant views. The trail went past several interesting rock formations and a few places even required using one's hands. Overall this is probably my favorite ridge walk in PA. It is better than the midstate along Tussey mountain. This makes a great one night backpack with the optional side trip down the Standing Stone trail. There is excellent camping underneath the hemlocks there.

Name: Paul Schwartz                                                                                              Hike: Copperhead point
Date: 1/7/12                                                                                                            Rating: 3.5

Critique: As I got out of the car to begin the hike, gunshots punctuated the stillness. They would be a staccato accompaniment throughout the hike. I also saw an old bucket holed by shotgun pellets and met a bow hunter on the fire road near gate 4.(By the way: turn left at gate 4 as you leave the fire road-not right, otherwise you'll head back to your car.) These sights and sounds added an air of unease to what would have otherwise been a delightful hike. Fortunately, I was wearing a red vest.
Some scrambling is required because of the numerous downed trees blocking the path which is obscure in some places. Also, some of the blazed trees have fallen and decayed along with their blazes. I walked right by the point and didn't see it until I turned around. But the view was pleasant, there were several stream crossings, and I always enjoy walking through pine forest. Next time, I'm taking a can of blue spray paint and a stencil

Name: .com                                                                                                              Hike: Blackwater Falls/Canaan Loop
Date: 1/5/12                                                                                                            Rating: 5

Critique: Rusty Bucket & I about half of this loop. We left out Yellow Birch Trail and started on the Davis Trail behind the stables. The area just had some snow but temps were on the way up so the hike was snow-covered but slushy in many parts. The first crossing of Engine Run was made easy due to well-placed rocks in the water. Blazes were easy to follow, except the small part where the trail has been re-routed; use your intuition, keep to the right and ascend to the next set of blazes. We lunched at the shelter, then continued a bit on Plantation Trail until the seeps became more cumbersome than fun. We turned around and easily retraced out steps back to our car.

Name: j. a. b.                                                                                                           Hike: Stone Tower Loop
Date: 12/29/2011                                                                                                   Rating: 4

Critique: This was a great hike, especially on a brisk December morning. The trail guide was "on spot". Thanks for the detailed description.

P.S. the yellow trail to the "view" was worth the extra few minutes. I missed it at first and kept following the yellow blazes into nowhere.

Name: CPL                                                                                                                Hike: Billy Goat Trail A
Date: 12/29/2011                                                                                                  Rating: 5

Critique: I am not a frequent hiker and just moved to the area. I was originally put off trying trail A by the NPS warnings that this is a "demanding" hike. I decided to try it anyway presuming that this was some over the top legal team writing this stuff. It is. There are kids as young as 10 or 11 on this trail. As long as you are comfortable walking over boulders you will be just fine. Good shoes a must. Posting in case anyone else has any doubts. Winter appears to be the best time to go, it was very quiet and i maybe ran into 20 people over the entire loop. Doing this in summer seems like it would just be miserable - the number of locations you are likely to run into substantial bottlenecks are too many to count. Go in winter, bring good shoes.

Name: Joe                                                                                                                Hike: Stone Tower Loop
Date: 04DEC11                                                                                                        Rating: 4.5             

Critique: Howdy - I hiked the stone tower loop this past Sunday December 4th. I don't know if the water level was high on Clark Creek, but I had to wade through the water break that was 15" deep. My buddy crossed the creek on a tree that was about 2-3' above the water. I don't know if that would be considered normal water flow, but it is possible that all the flooding rearranged the rock hop you spoke of.

Anyways, I followed the trail you outlined and when I reached the junction of the blue trail, I found a yellow blazed trail that headed west. Following this for about 1/4 mile I came across ruins of an old structure and what appeared to be a ramp for loading coal. Following this path you will also see an old embankment going down the mountain. Wanting to save daylight I returned to the blue trail junction and found the stone tower shortly thereafter. Next to the tower is the old entrance to the main mine shaft with a cast iron pipe exposed, and another mine shaft to the southwest that is filled in.

I continued on the blue trail to Yellow Springs and signed the register. We also found an old well about 30' behind the main campsite that was about 10-20' deep. I continued per your instructions and found the sulfer springs and the famous "General". I did a bit of research on this piece of machinery and found out that it was made by the General Excavator Company - hence the name. In Google Books you can find a picture of a very similar excavator made by this company - p.205 of The Earthmover Encyclopedia: The Complete Guide to Heavy Equipment of the World.

Heading back up the mountain I found the yellow blazed trail to the scenic overlook. This trail is pretty rough, but not too far to get to the vista.

All in all - it was a great hike. Thanks for posting it.

Name: Randi                                                                                                             Hike: Hazel Mountain Loop
Date: 3-7-09                                                                                                            Rating: 4

Critique: By making a couple of wrong turns on our way to the trail head at Skyline we arrived for a late start, leaving ourselves only 5.5 hours of daylight for this 10 mile loop. We figured "no problem." We did it counter-clock wise. The trek down into the valley was brutal as the trail was deeply covered in leaves and the rocky terrain a real hazard. We could hear bears huffing and scraping trees around us but didn't actually see any. The multiple creek crossings were interesting and the trail up with the false summits was challenging. Our "personal gas tanks" were too empty to make it down to the water fall. We made it back to our car just at dusk. I'm open to doing this hike again but this time I will want 6.5 hours at least.

Name: Galen                                                                                                            Hike: Pinnacle Picnic Area to Mary's Rock Out and Back
Date: 11-26-11                                                                                                       Rating: 4

Critique: Given decent weather, this is a fine walk along the spine of the Shenandoah. A good alternative to the many canyon and hollows hikes. I've been to Mary's Rock via the Meadow Spring Trail but this is a much more interesting route. It takes a mile or two to get away from the car noise of Skyline Drive but past that it's an easy walk (with some modest ups and downs) along a nicely groomed AT with your choice of multiple overlooks. Mostly to the west but you can find a few easterly views. The sunsets must be awesome. I'll be going back with a picnic in mind.

Name: Kingston Bowen                                                                                          Hike: Gunpowder Falls-East
Date: 11/24/2011                                                                                                  Rating: 4

Critique: Enjoyed great weather and truly fascinating change in scenery over this 4 mile hike. It was tough in spots. The uphill in a couple of spots got the blood flowing. What was cool was hiking in the rocky waterfalls area and then hitting an open meadow and then hitting a very fragrant pine forest. This is only a portion of the Gunpowders Falls area but very pleasing. We look forward to tackling this area again.

Name: Joanne                                                                                                          Hike: Little Devil's Staircase
Date: Nov. 20, 2011                                                                                                Rating: 4

Critique: Too late in the season for good leaf color. Cool overcast day - a good thing - no insects. DO NOT ATTEMPT THIS HIKE ALONE. BE SURE YOU ARE ABLE TO DO THE 5.4 MILES. THERE IS NO TURNING BACK IF YOU WIMP OUT. THE REVERSE ROUTE IS TOO TREACHEROUS. Take the fire road route back to your car. Get an early start - allow at least 4 hours. Bring a sufficient water supply. But if you use a camelback do not fill the bladder so full that the weight pulls you backwards. The water crossings can be treacherous - slippery rocks and wet leaves. Bring at least one hiking pole to help you. Rest along the way. This is a challenging hike even for the sure-footed. The fresh air and solitude were welcoming. Do it!

Name: Paul Schwartz                                                                                             Hike: Gunpowder East
Date: 11/19/11                                                                                                       Rating: 4

Critique: This hike must have been spectacular several weeks ago at the peak of the fall leaf season. As it was I enjoyed being in the woods with just the map and instructions and managed to see numerous deer as well as several other hikers and joggers. Parts of the trail are overgrown but as long as you keep the river in sight you'll be fine. I did have difficulty with the last part of Panther branch and managed to take the wrong fork, winning up on the north side of Hereford High School. This hike can easily be subdivided since there is a parking area on Falls Road. The only drawback...the inescapable noise of traffic on major roads for most of the hike.

Name: Eric Lengel                                                                                                   Hike: Big Schloss
Date: 11/8/11                                                                                                         Rating: 5

Critique: Be ready for the long haul on this hike. It's particularly challenging in the fall. The leaves obscure rocks in the trail and make for hazardous walking. It's all worthwhile though, b/c the views are magnificent!

Name: Boost Boy                                                                                                    Hike: Cranberry Wilderness Loop
Date: Nov. 4-6, 2011                                                                                              Rating: 3

Critique: Hey folks. I planned and invited 8 backpackers to do this  listed 21+ mile loop, to include North Fork to FR102 to Birch Log to North-South to Laurelly Branch to Middle Fork trails, and the subsequent return to WV150.

We enjoyed the trip, HOWEVER, we could not complete the planned route. Read on. I would NOT recommend this loop to anyone without expert trail-finding skills, endurance-level athleticism, and a perverse liking for the pain that results from carrying full packs in VERY difficult terrain.

North Fork trail was easy to follow due to it's open nature, however the trail is currently very overgrown, and includes numerous downed trees, ankle-twisting erosion, and log obstacles. The main switchback to the right was cairned and fairly easy to follow. The two huge cut banks that occurred from flooding were another matter. The first we circumvented by climbing up a 20-foot sandy chute (no other choice) to find the trail. Luckily there were cairns up to the left to regain the trail. The second one we descended down into and went up the other side with careful climbing as well.

We camped just up the road on FR 102 along the river as a fisherman was already ensconced in the North Fork Shelter. Because of the difficulty of the hike day one, we voted and all decided to take a shorter route back via Tumbling Rock trail to North-South trail day two, and spend the last night in the Tea Creek Campground. Turned out the climb up Tumbling Rock challenged the best of our route-finding skills. Within the first 1/4 mile the trail goes right at a small cairn. If you miss this and continue up a very steep old overgrown forest road, you've gone too far. Later we lost the trail and reconnoitered two additional times, thankfully finding cairns we had passed after backtracking. Two crossings of the stream are required to make the climb correctly. Very difficult terrain and a very faint trail indeed. I have backpacked for 30 years and had a heck of a time staying on the trail as leader all day. As faint a trail as I have ever seen in places. Open forest compounded the
 se issues at times.

After regaining the ridgeline, we turned right on the quite marginal North-South trail and headed back 4.9 miles towards WV 150. This trail climbed quite a bit at times (not much downhill at all), was overgrown and extremely muddy in places. It also had numerous downed trees and was just heinous overall. We lost the trail a couple more times, particularly after 2 huge separate downed trees. Came out just before dark. This 7.4 miles took us almost all day to hike out of. Again, I enjoy difficult terrain, but this was extreme. Next time I come, I will setup a base camp on the river and day-hike these trails.  Not for the faint of heart. Tea Creek Campground was a blessing after the pounding we all took. My friends persevered (many were expert hikers) but all said next time send the invite to noreply@blistermail.com, ha,ha...-pd-

Name: Tom Tulenko                                                                                                Hike: Old Loggers Path
Date: 8/05/11 - 8/07/11                                                                                      Rating: 5

Critique: Great hike as usual.  Pleasant stream road is still closed and it appears it may never re-open.  A new quarry has opened just above Masten with lots of truck activity and noise. Quarry noises could be heard almost all the way to confluence of Rock Run and Yellow Dog Run hiking counter clockwise from Masten.  Lots of evidence of bulldozer activity everywhere. Fresh bulldozer tracks on long abandoned logging roads and fresh swaths all over Sullivan mountain. Maybe a future gas well site? I hope not.  On the hike down from the top of Sullivan mountain on the way to long run, there is forest fire evidence with a new bull dozer fire road right over top of the trail.  Not so happy about the recent changes to the area but still one of my favorite back packs in PA.

Name: peter                                                                                                             Hike: Overall Run Falls
Date: 2011-11-06                                                                                                   Rating: 4

Critique: start before noon. the falls are shadowed in the afternoon. got to falls at 3:30pm (last day of DST), the ridge nearby already blocked out sun. have to go back.

did short version, just to see the falls. parked at entrance to Matthew's arm campground, since gate was closed. walked down the road, went in parking lot. there are 3 paths on the right, 1st is marked Traces Trail, which borders the entire Matthews Arm Campground, the other 2 are a short loop that goes to a small amphitheater. took Traces Trail 0.4mi, first right for 0.1 to Tuscarora-Overall Run Trail, left on T-OR for 1.4, right on Matthews Arm Tr for 0.1, then left at to continue on T-OR tr for 0.4 to the OR falls.

don't be fooled by the first few cascades, beginning with one 30ft fall, then a nice rock to sit for about a dozen people group to look at the silly cascades, like a bunch of smaller step waterfalls. keep going for the 90ft fall, you'll know when you see it. the view of the perpendicular valley is awesome, and the waterfall's cool too.

turned around, turned right on Matthews Arm Trail 0.1mi again, then stayed right to stay on Matthews Arm Tr for 0.4 instead of going left back on T-OR Tr, no difference in distance, just a change of scenery. loops>out&back. left to stay on Matthews Arm for 0.3, left again to stay on MA for 0.3, straight on MA for 0.2, veered right to not goto MA Campground, 0.5, didn't want to walk on road, arrive at big parking lot with amphitheater, looked at that, started walking back up the road and noticed a trail marker on the right, right across from the beginning of the parking lot, a much less used trail, but one none the less, and still didn't want to walk on road, it's more straight, and so a bit steeper, follows telephone wires 0.6, then at entrance to Matthews Arm Rd.

about 5.9mi & 4.5 hours, including 1 hour lunch at falls, seemed like shortest & quickest route to see the falls.

Name: Doug Metzler                                                                                               Hike: Cowans Gap SP - Tuscarora Tr
Date: 10/30/2011                                                                                                  Rating: 4.8

Critique: We hiked this the day after a heavy early snowfall and the snow was ranging from 6 inches to knee deep. It was truly spectacular. The snow made it difficult enough (and daylight was short enough) that we cut out the final loop that comes down the horse shoe trail. Directions were excellent. Blazing and signage at junctions was very good but note that the blazes on the Plessinger trail are now an orangish yellow rather than the red indicated on the map. Since the snow obscured the trail on the Tuscarora trail, and snow was clinging to tree trunks we had to do a little exploring at a couple of places to find the next blaze, but it wasn't too hard. Usually pretty clear where to go. Geyer trail was pretty slippy and difficult in the snow but doable. By the time we hit Plessinger a lot of the ground snow was melted and there were many deep muddy places so I would suggest over ankle boots and gaiters, not low cuts, for these conditions. We drove out from Pittsburgh for th
 is and it was well worth the trip.

Name: Scott_R                                                                                                         Hike: Jones Run - Doyles River Loop
Date: 10-25-11                                                                                                        Rating: 4

Critique: This was my second trip to this loop; it is definitely a 'waterfall' hike.  There are not really any vistas or other views included, but for moderate - in time, climb and length - hike, it's ideal.  It was an ideal 'date' hike!

My first trip, I did the 'short' loop returning on the fire trail; there may be better views I missed by skipping the two mile stretch along the Skyline Drive, but based on what I saw between Browns Gap and the Jones Run parking lot, I'm doubtful.

My second trip (about which I report here), I came in by way of Browns Gap Tnpk (the fire road) from below the park, and did this as a sort of out-and-back.  The road is quite well maintained inside the park, but not at all between the last farm field gate and the park boundary; it is passable only on foot for about a mile and half before the boundary.  While the park service does have signage up, they don't even bother with a gate.  We parked to one side (just in case someone came by and wanted to get past) and walked up.

We diverted off the road after the first swale we came to inside the park, and dropped down to where the Doyles and the Jones meet, and then picked up the trail back up to the road, giving us a chance to see the two waterfalls on the Doyles.  We then came back down the fire road.  This was an approximately 5 mile circuit and took about three hours - well worth it.

The second visit was mid-week and we saw nobody at all; my first visit was rather crowded.  There are a number of great swimming holes on the Doyles River and I'll go back for a dip in the summer, but mid-week.  A great short hike!

Name: Bob                                                                                                                Hike: Mt. Rogers Backpack
Date: 10/21-22/11                                                                                                 Rating: 5

Critique: This hike was an amazing experience. To the see awesome fall colors and then walk through a winter wonderland, was amazing. The endless views just blew me away. I did the 2 day version of the hike, but I camped near these two big boulders which offered truly inspirational sunsets and sunrises. Add to the fact that ponies slept beside my tent, and a meteor shower too! just awesome. I've done over 60 hikes, and this was the best hike I ever did. It was a very easy hike on the knees to ;) Check out the pictures from hike and others here: https://picasaweb.google.com/107375326274741613284

This was a real adventure

Name: Scott_R                                                                                                         Hike: St. Mary's Wilderness
Date: 10/1/11                                                                                                         Rating: 4

Critique: I've been drawn to the St. Mary's because it is a nice large wilderness, with a nice swimming hole, fairly close to home.  Unfortunately, it has a few shortcomings.

My early trips have always been out-and-back to the falls using the lower trail from the FS road and parking area.  As noted in the description, this trail was badly damaged by Irene and only continues to deteriorate.  There have been a series of heavy storms and flooding events in this area in late 2010 and early 2011 and the lower trail has deteriorated noticeably in the past year.

This most recent trip was a two night backpacking trip in which we went in by way of the lower falls trail, camped the first night there and then moved in the morning to the campsites near the intersection of Mine Run trail and the River trail.  This was a lovely camping spot - there are several great sites right next to the river and we brought a filter so we had all the water we could ask for.  We did the rest of the loop with just day packs.

This is not an 'easy' hike, but it is moderate; the climb from the valley up the river trail to the Green Pond area is pretty vigorous for the last short stretch, but most of it is moderate to flat.  This would be a tougher climb with a full pack.  However, as the loop is laid out, it's not bad at all.  If you were set on camping at Green Pond, you might reverse the direction since the climb up Mine Run Trail seems easier than the other (though it's also steep).

The other unfortunate part was just that views were only so-so, except from the Flint Mountain overlook.  Still, not crowded and fairly clean.

Name: Jeff                                                                                                                Hike: Roaring Plains Circuit
Date: 10/21/11-10/23/11                                                                                   Rating: 5+

Critique: Amazing hike, I appreciate all of your hard work putting this page and hike together.  I won't lie and say it was easy but my buddies and I found all the trails, including the infamous tee pee trail. Your directions were invaluable and the trails were just as you described.   We put an extra cairn in the campsite where the tee pee trail intersects the canyon overlook trail at the campsite as we had a little bit of difficulty finding it for a minute.  My only regret for the whole trip was when we walked out on the canyon overlook trail, it was fogged in, I can only imagine what that must look like on a clear day.  When my knees forgive me for this trip, I definitely plan to go back.  Thanks for everything, it was probably the best trip I have ever been on and certainly an amazing adventure.

Name: Keith Selbo                                                                                                   Hike: Brown Mountain - Rocky Top Loop
Date: 10-15 to10-17-2011                                                                                    Rating: 5

Critique: Perfect for a fall hike. Cool temperatures, leaves falling like multi-colored snow, grand vistas, roaring rapids, peaceful valleys, dappled autumn shade and a harvest moon you could read by -- what a hike!

Name: Steve Appler                                                                                                Hike: Hybrid - Roaring Plains Circuit-modified
Date: 10/7-9/11                                                                                                     Rating: 5

Critique: My brother Greg, my son Austin and I just enjoyed a backpacking trip using mostly the trail described here as the MNF-Roaring Plains/Hidden Passage/Canyon Rim Loop, but we didnt turn off at the Tee Pee Trail, but instead followed the Canyon Rim Trail all the way to its junction with the Roaring Plains Trail before returning on the Roaring Plains Trail route.

This was an arduous backpack trip and for those who would prefer to enjoy the spectacular views without the chore carrying a heavy pack through some very difficult terrain I would suggest setting up a base camp as described in Roaring Plains Base Camp and Day Hike and make the Canyon Rim Trail a day hike. M.R.Hyker suggested that to me, but I had to try it.

We reached the western end of the South Prong Trail (also the FR19 end of the Boars Nest Trail) about 5:15pm on Friday and started hiking down the South Prong Trail at 5:35pm. I had not thoroughly read the hike description on this site. Don't make that same mistake. Instead, I followed the trails that came with my Garmin GPS. We got into big trouble. We turned left before reaching the South Fork of Red Creek (this was the mistake) and followed what we thought was the South Prong Trail for some time before it disappeared. (Disappearing trails was to be a frequent theme for this whole weekend trip). We knew we needed to eventually ford the creek, so we bushwhacked our way down a very steep slope through very dense laurel thickets until we reached the creek, crossed without much difficulty and then had to contend with even more dense thickets on the other side. Eventually, we struggled up that steep slope and found a very faint South Prong Trail. By now it was getting dark and we donned our headlamps. We crossed FR70 in the dark and found a group of cars parked there. Ive backpacked there numerous times over the last 20 years and have usually found the gate to FR70 to be locked at FR19, so dont count on driving down this road for a short-cut. We climbed the steep slope up to where there is a great streamside campsite (as described in MNF-Roaring Plains/Hidden Passage/Canyon Rim Loop) and we kept moving on. Very shortly after that we located (actually, my GPS located it and I was damn happy about that) the intersection with the Hidden Passage Trail. I had downloaded the trip coordinates from this site which were extremely helpful throughout the trip since trails were constantly disappearing. (We ran into some hunters training their dogs to hunt bear who said that there were 9 of snow up there the week before and that had obscured many trails by beating down grass and foliage over the trails).

We followed the Hidden Passage Trail (generally) for awhile until we simply lost it. By this time it was about 9:00pm and we decided to give up on the trail and just walk straight to the waypoint of our campsite destination. That wasnt easy since theres a lot of spruce in the way, but we emerged into a semi-meadow area where we found a trail and finally a spectacular site with moonlit views of about 180 degrees. We set up camp and we collapsed. It was about 10:30pm.

We woke to an extremely beautiful scene. Mountaintops far below us rose above mists in the valleys. The leaves were near their colorful peak. The cranberries and blueberries were fiery red and the sunrise lit this spectacular scene magnificently. In my 30+ years of backpacking this was among the most impressive campsites I've experienced. My thanks to M.R. Hyker for bringing this (among many other great trips) to my attention.

We packed up in the morning and enjoyed an easy hike through very Dolly Sods-like plains cranberry & blueberry low-growing brush with grasses and low laurel thickets interspersed with spruce groves until we arrived at the pipeline where we turned left. We delayed making our turn onto the Canyon Rim Trail so that we could enjoy the overlook we found at the top of the pipeline rise. Then we turned back and turned left into the Canyon Rim Trail. Or, so we thought.

If you read the trip description here you will read that the Canyon Rim Trail is the most difficult trail to find. That is VERY true. First, do not follow the obvious trail through an established streamside campsite and down the mountain. Its seductive, but its wrong. We only missed doing that because my son, Austin, pointed out that going down just didnt match the topo there. We then widely and systematically scoured the area looking for any sign of trail and found nothing. (There was another hiker who was looking for that dead tree with a sign in it as described on this site that tree must have fallen down. We met him a long time later coming in from the other direction because he could not find the trail). We had just decided to give up finding the trail and to simply bushwhack our way from GPS waypoint to waypoint starting with a small meadow when the aforementioned hunters came through the meadow towards us. We asked if they knew where the trail was and they responded that we were on it. That's when we learned that the previous weeks snow had caused many mountain trails to be obscured. Once we made our way across the meadow we found and lost the trail numerous times in the dense laurel thickets. We followed the advice of the hunters and MidAtlanticHikes.com and kept the canyon rim close on our left and this worked fine, though the hiking here with packs was exceptionally difficult in the brush and with the constant, though gradual ascent.

There are spectacular overlooks all along the Canyon Rim Trail. The Point is especially beautiful and wide ranging. There were so many views that we started to pass some by and others provided wonderful excuses to remove our loads and to spread ourselves on the cool rocks in the warm sun. It was glorious weather.

We passed a couple nice campsites along the rim, too, though none had the open views of our first nights site. We came across a long section where we had to jump from rock to rock to stay on trail. Thank you to each of you who placed the cairns along that path or we could possibly still be there. That section seemed endless and the trail promptly disappeared again on the western end.
We never noticed where the Canyon Rim Trail met the Tee Pee Trail, but we found the dry campsite that was mentioned there. We knew we were nearing our destination for the night at the junction of the Canyon Rim Trail and the Roaring Plains Trail and since that area was said to be dry we chose to pump water from a small spring under a rock near the dry campsite. We could actually hear the water running behind the rocks. M.R.Hyker had warned me that the water was dirty there, but it looked clear. Of course, he was right and it clogged my filter even through my pre-filter. I found the same thing back in June when I pumped water out of Red Creek down near The Forks. There's some kind of mineral in that water that just clogs filters badly. We got enough water to get by, though, and kept on going.

We collapsed on one more rock outcropping and not long after leaving there stomped through a bog at the edge of some clearings in the spruce and followed the trail up a gentle grade until we finally made it to the trail junction where we found about 20-30 tents already set up. Apparently there was a Washington Backpacking club who came in via the Roaring Plains Trail. There was plenty of room for us, though, and we set up on the edge of the camp with a nice overlook of the valley to the southwest.

The wind howled all night. Over the years Ive found that is typical of most of the Dolly Sods and the Roaring Plains area. We camp in hammocks, so we got a nice rocking motion all night. That is, when we didnt feel like we were being blown out of the trees. We packed up late Sunday morning, doubled back to the Roaring Plains Trail which was our first clearly marked trail of the weekend. It was well blazed and wide open. As a matter of curiosity we found that end of the Tee Pee Trail as we passed by. There were colored flags hanging in the laurel there and my GPS confirmed we were at that junction. We stayed on the Boars Nest Trail, descended, found the pipeline and turned right, and shortly after that came to the end of FR70 onto which we turned left. There were about 10 cars parked there which we passed and shortly afterward we turned left onto the Boars Nest Trail.

The Boars Nest Trail is well marked, wide open and from FR70 climbs steeply for short time before leveling out. There are some great views across the open mountains, meadows, more spruce groves, more laurel thickets and brilliantly lit deciduous forest all around us. Then, we began the painful descent back into the South Fork of the Red Creek valley that lasted more than a mile. I had photography equipment and my load was much weightier than I prefer. Going downhill hurt. We finally made it to the creek and rested. Then we turned our sights to that last very steep climb back to the car. We headed out to Seneca Creek to eat badly and drink great beer in celebration of one more excellent trip.

I'm going back there, but next time I'm going to alter my route and trim my load back to my normal almost ultra light weight. I like long distance backpacking trips, but this trip was long, difficult and with a heavy backpack it wasn't as easy to enjoy the magnificent sites as it would be with a lighter daypack. I'll probably make base camp near where we spent our first night this trip, take the Canyon Rim Trail (now that I know how to find it) as a day trip, turn off at the Tee Pee Trail (if I can find that end of it), turn right onto the Roaring Plains Trail and when I reach the pipeline turn right and walk the mile back up the pipeline until I turn left onto the Hidden Passage Trail and back to camp. Look for me there in a few weeks.

Name: gale                                                                                                               Hike: Bull Run Mountain Conservancy
Date: 10-16-2011                                                                                                   Rating: 5

Critique: this trail for me was perfect in distance, and the incline to top, with absolutely a beautiful view on top..-- this has to be a secret for Northern VA!! I had found through searching on web-- & never heard of it before....

Name: Donna Miller                                                                                                 Hike: Big Schloss
Date: September 30 - October 2, 2011                                                               Rating: 5

Critique: This is one of my very favorite hikes. We usually do a 1-2 night backpack on it. Parked at Little Stony Creek Parking lot.

Walked Little Stony Creek Trail to Tuscarora Pond Run Trail, to Half Moon, to Half Moon Lookout. Camped at Halfmoon Lookout (not the greatest/flattest site, also dry, you'll need to fill up on water 1 mile before--but the views off the cliffs and up top Halfmoon Mt. are incredible).

Next day, reverse, same trails to Mill Mt. Took Mill Mt. to Big Schloss, nice campsites up top BS, if you can get them (dry, too). We kept going on Mill Mt. to the mountain ridge above Wolf Gap. Social trail goes off to left when trail goes right off/down ridge. Social trail leads to several nice tent sites. Again, dry. You'll need to walk down to Wolf Gap (steep) for water. Worth it though.

Last day, we hiked back out on Mill Mt., to Big Schloss cut-off trail, back down to FR 92, 1/2 mile to Little Stoney Creek Parking Lot, and our car.

Loop of about 20 miles total. Very, very pretty, not taxing, great views when leaves are down. Temps Sat 45 degrees, with rain and wind. Blah. Woke up to 35 degrees Sunday. All in all, in was a miserably fun trip.

Name: Tom O'Donnell                                                                                             Hike: Tuscarora-Standing Stone Loop
Date: 10/09/11                                                                                                       Rating: 4

Critique: I looked at several of your posted hikes in this area and decided on this one in hopes of getting some ridge top views of fall color. I missed the peak of color, probably a week early, but that really didn't detract from the enjoyment of the hike.
The trail is easy to follow, well blazed, with junctions marked with signs. The climb up Todd Trail wasn't as bad as it appears from the elevation profile (climb took 30 min.).
Description of "Extremely Rocky" is appropriate for the ridge-top portion. Rain or ice/snow could make this section treacherous. Views are spectacular and many interesting rock formations.
There is some road noise from Allens Valley Road on the Tuscarora Trail section, but the Standing Stone portion seems very secluded.
Although there were hundreds of people in the park on a beautiful fall day I saw only one other hiker until I got to the Knobsville Road section where I saw some folks headed to the overlook. Really enjoyed the hike, Thanks for posting. I'm looking forward to the other hike from Cowans Gap SP in the future.

Name: Jonnie                                                                                                           Hike:  Roaring Plains Base Camp and Day Hike
Date: Oct 6-9, 2011                                                                                                Rating: 5

Critique: As FR 70 was open to the pipeline, we 4 brothers ages 61 to 69 drove to the pipeline and set up camp 100 yards up the pipeline. Next day, we hiked up the Roaring Plains trail, missed the left turn on the TP trail to the rim as there was an attractive young gal standing in front of the cairn and the trail was overgrown, hiked ~2 miles farther to a nice spruce sheltered campsite on the rim with fire ring and overlook. Reversed direction on RP trail, turned left on unknown trail that we were told would take us to the pipeline a mile from camp. But the trail petered out after a rock field so we reversed again and arrived back at camp.
Next day, hiked southeast on the pipeline to where the "jeep trail" meets the pipeline (nice site nearby with fire ring but no water). Using map and compass (bushwhack needed) we took a heading of 220 degrees from north to end up where we wants to be on the rim, crossed Roaring Creek, eventually picking up the rim trail for the next mile or so.
Views along the rim were gorgeous--deciduous trees in a riot of color down to the bottom of Long Run Canyon, blue ridge after blue ridge to the horizon, deep green of the spruces, scarlet blueberry heaths, grey sandstone rocks, deep blue sky--doesn't get any better.
Continuing on the rim trail, we passed a couple of nice sites with fire rings but no water, missed the TP trail turnoff (what else is new?), carefully picked our way down the "mother of all talus slopes" following the cairns, lost the trail at the bottom, bushwhacked up to and along the rim for another mile or so til meeting the Roaring Plain trail again, and back to camp on the RP trail.
Many folks camping there that weekend , including a group of 16 Washington Backpackers who filtered in between 8pm Friday and 2 am Saturday, and 2 truckloads of bear hunters and bear dogs on Saturday.
The TP trail needs clearing at both ends, rock/boulder fields tricky, several unmarked trails present, map/compass/GPS recommended.

Name: Matt                                                                                                               Hike: Roaring Plains Base Camp and Day Hike
Date: 10/5-7/11                                                                                                     Rating: 5

Critique: Great hike but you really need to study the maps and trail descriptions. You can easily get lost if you miss a turn. Some of the trails seem like animal paths because they are so narrow. The description provided is excellent as long as you have a good sense of direction.

I lost my way for a moment when I took the group down the Tee Pee Trail to cut over to the Roaring Plains Trail. The problem is the Roaring Plains Trail is only blazed in one direction (three times over 2 and a half miles). So if you take this shortcut be sure to turn right when you hit the trail junction with the old log in the ground. There were two orange markers in the trees to mark the trail head.

I managed to lose my Canon digital camera somewhere between The Point and the intersection of the Tee Pee Trail with the Roaring Plains Trail (taking the Tee Pee Trail instead of continuing on the Rim Trail). I know this is a long shot but if anyone finds a camera please contact me.

Name: Mark T.                                                                                                          Hike: Susquehannock Loop (23miles)
Date: October 8 - 10, 2011                                                                                    Rating: 4+

Critique: Wonderful hike. Total solitude. No bears. Delicious organic apples on trees from old farmsteads long gone. Gas line side hike was much tougher than description said. Straight up and down 4 - 5 ridges. Twin Sisters Trail is a good exercise in finding trail blazes non-existent at times. Big Pool and Hammersley Creek were beautiful. Fall views from the meadow were awesome. Do the hike in the fall. And...the Bubba Burger at Bea's Biker Bar after 23 miles in 2 days on a lean diet was awesome.

Name: Joseph Dooley                                                                                             Hike: Nicholson Hollow - Corbin Hollow Loop
Date: 10/8/2011                                                                                                     Rating: 3.5

Critique: Not many people know or care about this hike, as obviously the main draw is and always will be Old Rag. The weather was ideal for this time of year (sunny, low 48, high 74), calling for two layers, one of which I stripped off at about 10 in the morning.

The first few miles along the Hughes River are a real treat. The area is well-shaded, the water is refreshing, and theres tons of boulders and fallen trees to climb.

The climb to Corbin Cabin is hardly noticeable; its the Indian Run Trail that will gas you. I noted two bear spore on the trail, but no bears, fortunately.

I enjoyed myself so much on the river that I opted to return via the Corbin Mountain Trail eastbound, figuring I will experience the Corbin Hollow Trail at a later date, probably coupled with Robertson Mountain.

Leaving Indian Run Trail, the Corbin Mountain Trail is pretty ho-hum for the first two miles, with one partial view of Old Rag to the south. Then the trail descends steeply to the river. This downhill section seemed to last forever. I couldn't believe I had gained this much elevation at the outset of the hike. Acorns covered the trail, making it slippery in spots. I had one close call, sliding about 6 feet off the trail, and arrested my fall by jamming my toes into the loose earth. I guess that's nature's punishment for my wandering off the trail guide!

All day I saw only one hiker but I passed six backpacking groups, half of them headed up Nicholson Hollow Trail as I made my way back to the parking area. I enjoyed this hike, but the only reason I would return in this direction would be to play on the Hughes River again, or combine it with some of the other trails around Catlett Mountain.

Name: Mothman                                                                                                      Hike: Dolly Sods Circumnavigation
Date: 9/23-25/11                                                                                                   Rating: 4.5

Critique: Epic weekender. Dolly Sods North is fantastic when it's not completely fogged in. I had covered the Wilderness a few years ago via the Fisher Spring Run Trail, and completely missed out on the North region, although there is a great big view of the Wilderness from an overlook on Fisher Spring Run that I never got from this.

A few trip notes:
- In the middle of day 1, where this hike description describes the Timberline Vistas, if you stay on Rocky Ridge, you'll pass Harman Trail. I didn't see it described and figured it out, but just FYI.
- Not sure if I did something wrong trying to visit Lion Head, but I never saw the "small stream" five minutes from the cairns. I'm not positive it was the right cairn, because I came to a nice overlook and judged that my dog probably wasn't going to be able to get up to the top of Lion's Head, but it certainly seemed that I had hit the "labyrinth of trails" (and had gone well over half a mile) and just never saw the stream. It's been pretty wet, so probably not just a dry or seasonal stream.
- I slipped three times my entire hike, all three times on the Little Stonecoal Trail. Usually pretty surefooted, this trail was a pretty serious down, rocky, and seems never to get sunlight. Word to the wise.
- Reiterating Moonshine's review, at the Dobbin Grade terminus of the Upper Red Creek Trail, there's an apparently unavoidable 20 meter beaver pond ford. Take your shoes off; I nearly lost a flip-flop in the unbelievable muck.
- I probably saw 20 people all weekend when I did the Wilderness only a few years ago; I must have seen about 100 total on this trip (although that included a boy scout troop). Still, a great, great hike.

Name: Ed                                                                                                                  Hike: Chuck Keiper Trail - East Loop
Date: 6/10-12/2011                                                                                              Rating: 4

Critique: Our first backpacking experience, and this trail was great. The trail notes were accurate and help us out. We had a map and GPS, which help us when we did not follow the trail notes. When we hiked the trail, we came to part of the trail between mile 15-19 where there were some trees down. Ok, there were over 30 full trees down and covering the trail. With full backpacks we were hiking over them and around them. There were nice camping areas for small sites, and water sources were abundant. There was even a spring with running water to refill your bottles.

Name: Joseph Dooley                                                                                            Hike: Big Schloss
Date: 10/01/2011                                                                                                  Rating: 3

Critique: The middle portion of this hike between the Sugar Knob Cabin and the unnamed vista was tedious, but it got better towards the end. On a cool, windy October day I hardly noticed the 1,500-foot climb up Little Stony Creek Trail. It's a gentle ascent that literally anyone can do. At various points I heard rushing water but could not see where it was coming from. It was only further on that I discovered the source of the sound. There's a spring underneath Mill Mountain! I hadn't read up that much on the hike and was pleasantly surprised.

The views were very good as it was a clear, windy day. I could see all the way to the Blue Ridge Mountains. Once you reach the bridge you see why it was built in the first place. A dangerous class 3/4 scramble would have to be attempted to reach the true summit.

The weather forecast called for a rain/snow mix on Big North Mountain on Oct. 1. Remembering how the meteorologists botched the previous weekend (calling for 2-4 inches across Maryland when in fact we received almost none), I chanced this hike and was rewarded with decent weather. I was surprised, however, at the number of people on the mountain. I encountered about 20 hikers and 2 camping parties.

The descent back down to FR 92 is the steepest portion of the hike. I was glad I was descending this section, not ascending it. Just off the trail, there are many scrambling opportunities, but watch out for thorns.

NOTE: Finding FR 92 for the first time is tricky. It's made of gravel and the only signage is a stop sign. Someone has painted "92" on the back of the stop sign in 3-inch high letters. If you cross into West Virginia, you know you've gone too far.

Name: Sarah Alice                                                                                                   Hike: Ramsey's Draft Wilderness-West
Date: 10-1-11                                                                                                          Rating: 5

Critique: I love this area. We hiked this loop as an overnight on October 1st and were surprised when almost an inch of snow that fell in the evening. There were a few fallen trees across Ramsey's Draft trail and Shenandoah mountain trail but overall everything was well maintained and the area was beautiful as ever. Keep in mind there is no reliable water on the Shenandoah mountain trail. It was nice to see that there are still some healthy looking hemlocks at the higher elevation!

Name: Bryan                                                                                                            Hike: Jenkins Gap/Hickerson Hollow
Date: 9/24/11                                                                                                         Rating: 4

Critique: A great hike! Very strenuous climb on the return. Didn't see the friendly horse, but did get to meet Chocolate, the friendliest dog ever! She would have hiked with us if her owner had let her.

The intersection that leads to the spring and campsites, you actually want to take the blue blazed trail to the right (not left as indicated). That will lead you to the pond.

Thanks to Michael for updating the map! Very helpful.

Name: BikeDC101                                                                                                   Hike: Greenbrier State Park
Date: 9/25/11                                                                                                         Rating: 3

Critique: I did not follow the suggested hike entirely, but a good portion of it. I began as suggested at the boat ramp parking lot and started north on the Big Red trail (red blazes), turned off left (south) on the Rock Oak Fire Trail (blue blazes) to its end where it rejoined the Big Red trail, and continued on the Big Red trail back north to the boat ramp parking lot.

The hike itself is unremarkable. The hike is easy enough to be accessible to kids, without steep inclines. However, even my 3 year old found it rocky (with little rocks) and unengaging--there are no large rock formations. For comparison, she enjoys the Sugar Loaf trails, where she likes to challenge herself on the steep inclines, where she can also find nooks in large rocks to sit in for breaks. Back to Greenbrier, on the eastern sections of the Big Red trail, freeway noise is audible in the distance.

The bright spots were that we all enjoyed looking at the numerous variations of fungi on display here, from mushrooms to a range of other fascinating varieties. Also, we spotted two deer on the west side of the Big Red trail between the un-blazed trail to the Dog Wood Camp and the Camp Loop trail. Also, there are several different bird calls to listen to. Finally, the lake is in a beautiful area, and we encountered only 2 other groups (5 people total) and 1 mountain biker during our Sunday afternoon hike.

The hike is worth doing once, but I prefer trails that reward me with views or unique natural structures, which I did not find here.

Name: Ben                                                                                                                Hike: Quehanna Trail - Short Loop
Date: 9/24/11 - 9/25/11                                                                                      Rating: 4

Critique: We did this hike as described in the write-up on a September weekend. Overall it was a very nice hike. The campsite at Arch Spring is interesting with the old foundation. Unfortunately the Red Run trail north of the Quehanna Highway has not been maintained and has quite a few blowdowns and places that are in danger of being grown shut in a couple years. The trails south of the Quehanna highway are beautiful because of the open meadows and are in great shape thanks to the hard work of Betty who maintains many of these trails south of the highway by herself. These trails south of the highway are definitely the highlight of the hike along with the arch spring campsite. If you camp there be sure to check out the vista a short distance away.

Name: Allen Keeney                                                                                               Hike: Ketchum Run
Date: 09/22/11                                                                                                       Rating: 4.5

Critique: Very nice hike with beautiful water features and not a soul in sight. (Helps to do it on a Thursday). We did not find the "obvious" path down to Scar Run however, and thus did the shorter version. Also, water was high (but not outrageous), and the X-4 trail at Lee's Falls was impassible.

Name: Matthew                                                                                                       Hike: Quehanna Trail NE Loop
Date: 3 Sept-4 Sept 2011                                                                                      Rating: 4

Critique: Really wasn't sure what to expect on Labor Day Weekend but saw no one on the trails. A lot of what are called yellow blazes in the hike description are now yellow or yellow over blue. Also the sign-post that marks the "Red Run Trail" on the map and in the description says "Reactor Rd 3.5 miles" and make no mention of Red Run and is the least well blazed section of the trail so I wasn't sure I was on the right trail until I got to the base of Red Run. That said, I was very pleasantly surprised by the beauty of the trail, the wonderful streams and abundant water and the diversity of mushrooms everywhere along the trail.

Name: White Blaze                                                                                                 Hike: Hogback Mountain/Knob Mountain Loop
Date: 9/17/11 - 9/18/11                                                                                     Rating: 4

Critique: A group of 5 did the longest of the loops here (13 miles) as a short weekend overnighter in early fall, 2011. We hiked 9 on the first day and camped along Jeremy's Run near its intersection with the Knob Mtn Cutoff trail. On the hike out the next morning through Mathew's Arm campground we spotted two black bears. We spotted the first about 200 yards from our campsite near Jeremy's Run...the second scrambled down a tree about 20 yards from the trail as we approached on Knob Mountain.

N.B.:

-There is not much for water--we only crossed 3 or so streams across the entire 13 miles. If you're camping out, plan to camp near one of the water icons on MRHyker's map.

-If hiking in the fall/winter, dress warm. The forecast for Front Royal or other nearby towns can vary dramatically from the top of Hogback/other Shenandoah mountains.

-You will cross Skyline Drive or other roads a number of times, and even pass near a gas station/general store at Elk Wallow. You can hear cars throughout stretches of the trail. This wasn't a problem for us, but you probably won't be pleased if you're looking for complete solitude.

The hike offers plenty of side trails if you decide to shorten or lengthen your hike. Next I'll check out the Neighbor Mtn/Jeremy's Run. It's a similar distance and it appears you pass more water and fewer roads.

Thanks for the map/directions MRHyker!

Name: Joseph Dooley                                                                                             Hike: Cowans Gap Loop
Date: 9/17/2011                                                                                                     Rating: 4.4

Critique: I did this hike in reverse, starting out across the dam, and opted to scramble along the ridge of Cowans Mountain to the logging road instead of taking the Horseshoe Trail back down. This is a truly great hike. Despite the crowded campgrounds, the trails were deserted. I only encountered two souls at the Big Mountain overlook and a third on his way up the Tuscarora Trail. In all, the 11-mile loop took this weekend warrior 8 hours to complete.

I started out across the dam to get the hardest section out of the way first and to minimize my time on the logging road. The other reviewers here are right: the Horseshoe Trail is the steepest trail around that doesn't require scrambling. There's no danger of falling to your death, but the climb is VERY trying, about 700 feet of rise over 2,200 feet of run. If I were going down the Horseshoe Trail, trekking poles are a MUST.

By comparison, the climb up the Guyer Trail later on was a cake walk, requiring only two stops to catch my breath. The out-and-back to Big Mountain is disappointing, as it follows an uninspiring access road for over 2 miles, but the overlook is worth it.

Conditions on the Tuscarora Trail between the gap and the junction with the Guyer Trail were less than ideal. The trail is littered with loose, sharp rocks, and sections of the trail are completely overgrown. However, there was little risk of losing the blue blazes. It was just a nuisance.

Name: Nick R.                                                                                                           Hike: Canaan Mountain Grand Circuit
Date: September 10-11, 2011                                                                              Rating: 3.5

Critique: A diverse, enjoyable fall hike. HOWEVER - the portion of Lindy Run Trail between CLR13 and Plantation Trail is no longer maintained by the Forest Service. There is no longer a sign at the intersection of Lindy Run and CLR13; only a small cairn is in place. Be alert, as it's easy to miss the turn. Once you're on Lindy Run, the trail is fairly easy to follow, despite being a bit overgrown. The intersection of Lindy Run and the Plantation Trail does have a sign, and the remainder of the hike is well-marked. For example, the intersection of Plantation Trail and the Railroad Grad is now clearly marked.

If you keep those caveats in mind, I recommend the hike as a quick but diverse introduction to WV hiking. Table Rock and Lindy Point have epic vistas, and the forest has an interesting variety of terrain and flora: hemlocks, spruce, peat bogs, etc. And when you're done hiking, you can feast on the cheap at Hellbender Burritos in nearby Davis.

Name: Joseph Dooley                                                                                            Hike: Sugarloaf Mountain
Date: 8/31/2011                                                                                                    Rating: 3.4

Critique: Stronghold Corporation opens the park at 8 am, so don't make the same mistake I did and time your arrival for a dawn summit. I ended up driving around Hyattstown for an hour.

The trails at Sugarloaf intersect each other like a spider web, so unless you visit White Rocks you're never really more than a mile from your car. If you want a REAL rock scramble, there's an unofficial rock wall between the two parking lots (closer to the East View). Despite that you are parking only about 200 feet below the summit, the vista is very good on a clear day. Graffiti artists have sullied the summit and the West View, unfortunately. Don't forget to contribute a rock to the cairn.

Name: Jessica Paolucci                                                                                         Hike: Dolly Sods Wilderness Backpack
Date: Sept 3-4 -11                                                                                                  Rating: 4.5

Critique: Love, love loved this trip! I know its meant for three days, two nights but we decided to do it all in two days, which was plenty of time for us. The first part of red creek, was extremely difficult to keep track of, the trail just disappears but this outline was very helpful as to certain things to look for and good places to camp out (we stayed at the Forks)! The second waterfall you come to on red creek trail was so much fun to play in, especially because it was super muggy on Saturday but the climate was wonderful up on top of Breathed mtn. Loved the creek crossings and totally different environments on either side of the mountain as well as the top! We will definitely be recommending this trip to friends and may have to make a visit back soon!

Name: Jim                                                                                                                 Hike: Caledonia State Park - Quarry Gap Circuit
Date: 8-20-11                                                                                                          Rating: 4

Critique: I completed this hike as part of a longer attempt to do 20 miles in one day. I tied it in with the Rocky Knob-Quarry Gap trail and did both in their entirety in on the same date.

The early portion of this trail follows the yellow blazed and VERY easy Ramble trail. It's quite scenic and the excellent directions made it idiot proof to stay on course.

A note of correction occurs with the "un-named blue blazed trail". It is now clearly identified as the "3 Valley Trail". The initial climb here is steep, but brief. Trekking poles were a real help here powering up the trail. When you reach the top, the "unnamed trail from your left" has now been blocked off by a wall of branches laid out in such a fashion as to keep you going the right way.

The trail meanders along the AT for a bit from here and eventually drops down to Quarry Gap Rd, where I parked for my second hike of the day. Once again the directions are crystal clear and the terrain is easy with very little climbing in this segment.

When you reach the fork in the trail, the sign post is now two marked posts, the left taking you up Hosack Run, the right continues the Locust Gap Tr. The quick left in to the rhododendrons left me almost claustrophobic. They were so thick but beautiful none the less.

The lunch spot recommended was scenic, but the gnats were insane when I passed through. I opted not to stop there and pressed on up the trail. When the directions indicate that this is a steep set of switchbacks, HE'S NOT KIDDING. While not as steep as the earlier climb up the 3 Valley Tr., it is a bit of a challenge and it's not a short climb. You'll want to stop for water at the top.

Once you turn toward the PATC shelter, it really is all downhill from there. There are a lot of large rocky areas so just be aware that trail runners may not be your best idea here. Once again, my trekking poles were an ankle saver. The shelter itself is beautiful and well maintained, a chipmunk makes it's home under the front porch. I was up to speed by this point so I just continued down hill and almost ran out of the bottom of the trail.

Overall, this is a fantastic and fairly easy hike. I'm very much looking forward to going back in the fall and trying it again when the foliage dies off a bit.

Name: Kelly and Linda                                                                                                        Hike: AT/Mau-Har Loop
Date: 8/8/2011                                                                                                                   Rating: 5

Critique: My husband and I left the parking area after a big lunch and water. We loved the hike but wish we had the trail map. It was very strenuous but exhilarating!

We ended up hiking out about 3.5 and back. We were tired! We would like to go back and do this trail in 2 days.

Name: Joseph Dooley                                                                                                         Hike: Little Devil's Stairs
Date: 8/26/2011                                                                                                                 Rating: 4

Critique: I did the 7.8-mile version of this hike on the Friday afternoon ahead of Hurricane Irene. The best part of the hike was the solitude. I encountered only one group, and they were just leaving as I parked in the gravel lot. The climb is not so bad as long as you take your time and enjoy the scenery. I'm 25 and I made the ridge in 1 hour 40 minutes. It's true there are no vistas on this hike, but climbing out of that well-shaded gorge is pleasing enough. NOTE: The Pole Bridge Trail forks twice; take the left fork each time. The cemetery was neat. The only downside to this hike was the spider infestation on the Pine Branch Trail. Unsuspectingly I walked into a hundred webs cast across the trail, and I was bitten three times. Other than that, a great hike.

Name: Paul Schwartz                                                                                                         Hike: Hemlock Gorge
Date: 8/21/11                                                                                                                     Rating: 4

Critique: Due to time and weather constraints we were only able to do part of the loop but apparently the best part. The Gorge views were rewarding, and we met a group of bathers at lunchtime. There was a veritable feast of mushrooms on the trail of various colors and sizes. Even when the trail thinned out it was easy to follow. Basically it's almost impossible to get lost here. Definitely worth a repeat during other seasons.

Name: Joseph Dooley                                                                                                         Hike: Catoctin Mountain Loop
Date: 8/20/2011                                                                                                                 Rating: 3.8

Critique: I followed this trail as described, took my time, got turned around twice, added the falls at the end, and it still took only 5 hours. The creek was a real treat, as it offered some fun stone-hopping. If the creek is low enough, you don't need to go up on Rte. 77, you can cross to the opposite bank. Wolf Rock was a little scary, as the farther you go out the wider the crevasses get. All along the loop, there's tons of spots where you can leave the trail and explore the rocks. Note: The nature trail loops back on itself. From Hog Rock Vista, follow the sign to Cunningham Falls. Climbing the falls was like the cherry on top for me, as I enjoy a good scramble. All in all a good hike.

Name: Kingston Bowen                                                                                                      Hike: Lost Pond Circuit
Date: 8/12/11                                                                                                                     Rating: 2.5

Critique: Nice hike. Fairly moderate but has a couple good climbs in it. I think it will be a much different hike later in fall or just before wintry weather. Once you hike away from the water, the forest takes over on the way to the Lost Pond. Lost Pond was taken over by brush and growth. I look forward to going back later in the year.

Name: Leslie                                                                                                                         Hike: Billy Goat Trail - A
Date: 7/31/11                                                                                                                      Rating: 4

Critique: I thought this trail was amazing. I'm not sure I would say it was for beginners. It has some steep declines/inclines on rocks and it would be challenging for beginners. I loved every minute of it. You would never even know that you were near a city and a crazy beltway. The views are gorgeous. It's a perfect day. I highly recommend this hike and can't wait to do it again.

Name: Marshall McCoy                                                                                                       Hike: Dolly Sods North Circuit
Date: July 28-July 30 2011                                                                                                Rating: 5

Critique: Two friends and I hiked Dolly Sods North this Thursday evening through today (Saturday, July 30, 2011). I had actually planned on doing the 15 mile Dolly Sods North BP, but after a long Friday hike and being totally out of shape, we decided to cut our hike short and take Dobbin Grade Trail. This is my first time visiting the Sods since a Boy Scout trip here almost 15 years ago; and my first backpacking trip since then as well.

The spring coming out of a black hose on Dobbin Grade Trail was flowing well. The water was crystal clear and very cold. We weren't sure of the water quality, so we decided to pretreat it anyway. Regardless, it tasted great!

We were treating water with Potable Water because we ran into some difficulty boiling water due to recent showers and most of the ground wood being rather wet.

I used your site almost exclusively in planning our trip, and your descriptions are excellent. I will definitely return to your site in planning our next backpacking trek!

By the way, Dobbin Grade Trail was quite squishy. We all ended up with some bog in our boots. At one point my friend Tim dropped almost knee deep into a bog. This trail is very difficult to navigate and forces you to spend lots of energy detouring around bogs. I'm wondering if the slight shower we had the night before contributed to the additional sogginess.

This hike for us was a huge learning experience. How to maintain hydration, pack weight (I packed much more than I needed), and hiking pace are more important than I originally anticipated. A nice water filter system is definitely on my shopping list for our next trip.

Name: Moonshine                                                                                                   Hike: Canaan Mountain Backpack-2
Date: 07/22-24/2011                                                                                            Rating: 4

Critique: The trip was a pleasant getaway from the sweltering heat in DC. There were plenty of blueberries along Allegheny Tr, and no shortage of water everywhere. Mountainside Trail is in bad shape...almost a swamp. In summer it is just not interesting, unless you want to meet a bear. I had no such luck, but saw fresh scat in at least 5 spots. Table Rock is an amazing spot indeed. It is one of the best overlooks I've ever been to.

Name: paul senstad                                                                                               Hike: Four Ponds Rock City Loop
Date: 7 29 2011                                                                                                       Rating: 5

Critique: I only did the Rock City trail but it is easily the best trail I've hike in the watershed - tough but awesome climb trai,l well marked. I recommend this trail to impress you.

Name: Victor                                                                                                            Hike: Otter Creek-Northwest
Date: July 20, 2011                                                                                                 Rating: 4

Critique: Directions to Big Springs Gap trailhead were helpful, there were signs, but no sign noting to take the left fork above the old dam. The hike down Big Springs trail had lots of nettles and with 5 kids (4 ages six and under) and 3 adults in our group, a bit of nettle clearing was needed.

We ended up setting up camp south of the junction of Big Springs with Otter Creek trail at a very nice site. There was a few trees blown down across the trail where we camped and I embarked on some trail maintenance while camped there.

We did not do a loop trip but did a day hike up to the confluence of Moore Run with Otter Creek which is a beautiful place to take a break. A tree had blown down right where the Green Mountain Trail junctions with otter creek and some more trail maintenance was done.

While at our campsite we discovered a large rattlesnake way too close for comfort with little kids around and so it was killed. I'm sure all the mice are now doing a party dance but it beats a snakebite in the middle of nowhere. First snake I've ever killed. We did have one very smart mouse that kept finding a way into our food at night. I had food hung between two trees about 25' apart, about 10' off the ground with about a 4' drop from the horizontal rope to the food bag. I need to figure out a better rodent protection system. Maybe a grubpack would work but I'm still looking.

We ended up having someone hike back up Big Springs Gap trail and relocate the vehicle to the Otter Creek Trailhead and then hike back in from the North. This was mainly to avoid the nettles but also to let the part of the group from Florida that were with us to see the North end of Otter Creek. There is a very recent extremely large hemlock that virtually took out the otter creek trail within 1/4 mile from the swinging bridge on the North end of Otter Creek trail. The trail is passable on the upper side of root ball but on one side there is a muddy drop (climb) of about 4 or 5 feet to navigate. In low water a route right by the water might also be possible.

We had the largest lightning storm I've ever experienced while camping happen one evening which was a bit nerve racking on the kids.

All in all a great trip, a gorgeous location, and the temperature was quite pleasant despite the hot temperatures across the state at the same time. Last time I was at Otter Creek camping I discovered a camp site with a huge amount of garbage left behind that we burned or hauled out. This time we only found one soda bottle which we also hauled out.

Name: .com                                                                                                              Hike: Black Forest North
Date: July 23-25, 2011                                                                                           Rating: 5

Critique: Maps & trail notes were perfect once we were on the BFT itself. Driving directions say that from the Black Forest Campground, it is "about 2 miles" to the road on the right--it is 2+ miles to that turn off. There is a hunting lodge, newly built, with a small parking area for 3 cars--does that belong to the hunters? We parked there.

We arrived a bit later that expected, due to avoiding a detour area (an email to the Tiadaghton State Forest provided exact directions to avoid that detour). Day 1 we hiked to the first campsite, 3 tents stayed, 4 went up to the first trail to the right (an excellent tent site right on the water w/ a waterfall) and 2 hiked on further (due to miscommunication about the 4 at the side trail tent site). All good, and we re-grouped easily on Day 2. Definitely hot on Day 2, and those steep climbs, you called it the Lemon Squeezer, jeesh! We had a beautiful lunch across Slate Run, however we should've walked another 30 yards to a gorgeous swimming hole--you know about that one? Good to keep it secret!

Day 2 we ended at the pond. At first 4 hiked on to the next tent site but that was bone-dry, so they returned. We found 9 very nice sites, all spread out between the pond and the nearby woods. Beautiful pond, water was fine, but those bullfrogs were at it all night long! One hiker had to move her tent at midnight in order to get some sleep! The pond had a scummy-looking surface (pollen), but the water itself was quite clear, deep and very cold, indicating that it was drinkable after treating/filtering.

Day 3 there were 7 who started hiking out (2 took a longer time getting ready but knew the way out). More steep ups to reach another lovely plateau, then we heard thunder and that soon turned into quite a t'storm, lightning, thunder & rain in the woods. By that time we decided to use the "bail-out" route and save the 20 crossings of Slate Run for another time. We got back to the van a bit earlier, changed to dry clothes and drove out. Lunch was at a Ruby Tuesday's.

I'd give this hike a 5, outstanding area, varied terrain, and almost total solitude. The use of cross country ski trails offer flexibility to this hike should there be a need.

Name: Ed. S                                                                                                             Hike: Long Pond Backpack
Date: July 15, 2011                                                                                                Rating: 5

Critique: I did this as a day hike. It's not too long, but parts can be strenuous. This is a hike for those who enjoy streamside journeys and interesting rock formations, with much of both. There are hikes right next to the stream, on ledges partway up the canyon walls, on ridges high above the creek with some vistas, an old logging road, and a short dirt road walk. Solitude is easy to find, and wildlife was plentiful, including two woods turtles. The best highlights of this hike are the multiple rock formations whenever the trail runs next to Fifteenmile Creek.

A word of caution: the narrow ledges the trail sometimes follows can be scary to those who are scared of heights, and especially so when added with a steep trail slope. These areas could also be dangerous when snow, ice, or rain may be present. But other times just be careful and watch where you step, and this will be a very enjoyable hike.

Name: carolyn                                                                                                         Hike: Little Devils Stairs
Date: 7/16/11                                                                                                         Rating: 4

Critique: We started at the parking lot on the boundry of the park and began the circuit on the LDS trail. It was a beautiful hike next to a stream and very peaceful. There are several pools of water to stop and soak your feet (bring a towel) and cool off. We didn't see anyone as we hiked up the stairs only when we got to the top. It is a strenuous hike up the stairs. I'm a 45 year old woman whos main exercise is wlaking so I'm not in great shape and I did alright. I stopped several times up the stairs to catch my breath and drank plenty of water. We ended up taking the yellow trail down to save time, but it felt like we were walking forever. The cemetery towards the end of the fire road was a great treat.

Overall this was a great hike. It's challenging yet still enjoyable. My calf muscles hurt for 3 days after! Total time was approximately 4 hours (2 hours up the stairs and about 1.5 hours down the fire road with breaks). Next time we'll stay on the blue trail instead of taking the fire road back to the parking lot or just take the stairs back down.

Name: Jeff                                                                                                                Hike: Lumberjack Trail/Seneca Creek Loop
Date: 7/16/11                                                                                                         Rating: 4

Critique: We did a loop via Seneca Creek Trail, High Meadow Trail and Lumberjack Trail. Seneca Creek Trail is the highlight as it follows an old grade along a beautiful creek with cascades and rhododendron thickets. There are a few crossings that can be very difficult in high water. Several superb campsites.

High Meadows Trail was nice, although the trail is not as well established and weedy. The meadows offer nice views and wildflowers. There was some damage from horses.

Lumberjack is an easy trail along an old grade through the woods. It is wet in spots, again with horse damage. Stinging nettle is also an issue in places.

Overall, it is a nice hike.

Name: Jeff                                                                                                                Hike: Roaring Plains
Date: 7/15/11                                                                                                         Rating: 5

Critique: Beautiful hike. We did not do the entire circuit, instead we returned via the forest road. Long pants are a good idea since the trail is very brushy in places. Highlights of our trek are the meadows (east of the pipeline swath) where we saw a goshawk, and the point, with incredible views, some of the best I've seen. Trail is very overgrown west of the pipeline swath, although there is a treadway under the thick blueberry and laurel bushes. A compass is necessary. In dry weather, water sources may be limited. Trail is rocky in places, although I did not find the terrain very challenging along the route we took.

Name: Jeff                                                                                                                Hike: Waterfall Wonderland
Date: Various                                                                                                           Rating: 5

Critique: Although incredibly beautiful, this is one of PA's most dangerous treks. Be very careful negotiating around the falls. Never attempt in high water or icy conditions without appropriate gear and experience. Climbing around Big Falls is particularly dangerous, as the route is above steep banks and cliffs. Be very careful.

Ironically, in low water, it is possible to hike down many of the falls along Sullivan Branch. The bedrock actually has good traction. To see all the falls, you will get wet. Just accept your feet will get wet and walk in the water.

Be careful, take every safety precaution, and enjoy this magical place. Treat it with respect so that others may also enjoy it.

Name: Joe Collins                                                                                                   Hike: Susquehanna State Park
Date: 7/17/2011                                                                                                    Rating: 2

Critique: For the moment I give this a two solely because of the trail blazing. The current blazes do not correspond to the map. I talked with a park employee who told me that some trails had to be re-routed over the past two years and they haven't been able to update the maps. Additionally, do NOT take the railroad track trail going south from the Grist Mill. It is overgrown with poison ivy encroaching and nasty biting spiders have built their webs at face level across the trail (learned that last one the hard way.) But it looks so beautiful there that I will go back and hit the trail at a different spot someday.

Name: Steve                                                                                                            Hike: Allegheny Front Trail - west loop
Date: 7/15 - 17/2011                                                                                            Rating: 5

Critique: Fantastic trip with beautiful streams, varied scenery, and great campsites. The KTA had several trail crews working so the tall brush and overgrown trails should be less of an issue now.

I asked a KTA trail crew why the confusing sometimes yellow, sometimes orange blazes and they said eventually the entire AFT will be blazed in yellow.

Name: Dave and Diane                                                                                          Hike: Quebec Run

Date: 07/09-10-2011                                                                                            Rating: 4

Using the map, mileages, and trail description from your "MidAtlanticHikes" webpage made it easy.  We had never been there before so we just followed your suggested hike route.  We're glad you mentioned the secluded campsite where the Hess
Trail intersects the Rankin Trail and Quebec Run in your hike description.  We camped there Sat night.  Real nice campsite.  The whole weekend we only encountered 3 other day hikers and 2 mnt bikers.

Thanks for the comprehensive website you've created !

Name: robert                                                                                                            Hike: Jeff Mitchell's Waterfall Wonderland (SGL13)
Date: 7-16-11                                                                                                           Rating: 5

Critique: Great hike. Bring Topo map & compass as on any hike. Absolutely no cell reception there. Swimming was GREAT!
We took 3- 30m swim breaks, and a 30m lunch. We also took a lot of time on the decent along Sullivan Branch and the hike took 8 hours. Flow was low which aided in our ability to navigate the route along the stream-beds. We will be returning with a better plan as to where to swim & eat lunch. Jeff's book was also very helpful for navigating.

THANKS!

Name: Chris                                                                                                              Hike: Ricketts Glen Falls Hike
Date: 7/8/2011                                                                                                       Rating: 5

Critique: My wife and I hiked the 3.6 mile loop on a beautiful day in July. Little if any humidity, and high temps in the low 80s with hardly a cloud in the sky (what more could you ask for?). Twenty years ago my wife and I went out on our first date and I was looking for a place we could get way for the weekend. For a weekend getaway Ricketts Glen will not be a disappointment it was just stunning. We arrived at the trailhead at 9:00 am to find only three other cars in the parking lot. The only real drawback to this hike is it didnt stay that way, by the time we left it was full and there were lots of people on the trail. I recommend going early (by 11:00 am there were people everywhere), for the first hour and a half it was like we had the park to ourselves. No camping on this trip we stayed at www.sweetvalleycottages.com and for $210.00 for the weekend we found the cabin and grounds to be charming to say in the least. No TV, no phone, no radio just a simple rustic cabin; again what more could we ask for. We ate dinner at the Trails End Restaurant Friday evening as well as breakfast Saturday morning and enjoyed both. Hopefully some day we will be able to make a trip back to the area during fall, as Im sure it wont disappoint then either.

Name: Pat Campbell                                                                                               Hike: Cranberry BP
Date: 7/8/11 - 7/10/11                                                                                        Rating: 4

Critique: Arrived at the North Fork Trailhead on Friday afternoon with rain coming down pretty heavy. Rather than starting the hike in the rain, we killed some time, and a couple beers, in the parking lot while we arranged our gear. By 3:00 PM the rain let up so we started hiking. A couple hours later we were at the first trailside campsite so we stopped there for the night. With a light rain falling, we set up my Ray Way tarp that is big enough for my son and myself. Uneventful evening and night.

Saturday morning we set off down the soggy, often overgrown trail. The trail follows an old road so it isn't hard to follow except in two spots. At one point it dead-ended into a tree. We had to climb up the embankment on all fours to get around. Later, after the trail crossed to the left side of the creek there is a section where the side of the hill collapsed, taking the trail with it. It wasn't to hard to just go downstream a ways, then bushwack up the hill to find the trail again. After a few more hours of slogging through the muck we arrived at the Cranberry River and claimed the North Fork shelter for the night. While resting, 3 hikers from Cincinatti stopped to chat and we had a good time comparing our similar experiences on the trail.

That evening we walked up the road to check out the liming station and had a black bear run across the road in front of us. Very cool.

The next morning we headed down the river to Tumbling Rock trail and went up to the junction with the North South trail. Tumbling Rock was nice, with a pretty good campsite about half way up. The North South trail had a couple good climbs, but was otherwise and easy hike. There are a couple good campsites along the way, but you have to realize there is no water, and hanging a bear bad would be a challenge with the type of trees that grow there.

I give this loop an A+ for wilderness experience and solitude, a C for scenery( zero vistas, but great wildflowers and other foliage ) And a generous B for trail quality. It was lots of fun and I'm glad to add it to my hiking scrapbook.

Name: Steve                                                                                                            Hike: Dolly Sods Wilderness Backpack
Date: 7-9-11                                                                                                            Rating: 4

Critique: This trail was awesome! Saw some great scenery along the way. Me & my buddy completed it in one day, but it wasn't easy. The rocky terrain can really do a number on your feet & ankles. We started around 8:30 am & finished around 7 pm. The waterfalls were awesome, climbing up around the lion's head was fun, & picking blueberries was fun. The only complaint is that it's not marked very well.

Name: iowajoe                                                                                                        Hike: AT-Sunset Rocks
Date:07/10/11                                                                                                        Rating: 5

Critique: This hike was a lot of fun. Don't be discouraged because a few people found it boring. I eliminated most road walking by parking in a different spot. I didn't follow the path specified. We drove up Michaux Road, and parked on Bunker Hill Rd. Walked down Michaux Rd a little bit to pick up the blue blazes. This ended up making the ascent very gradual. I reccomend this path to make the trail easier, but not to take away from any of the scrambling. It actually works out great, as the summit is the last place before the descent, and so you are saving the best for last.

Anyways, the trail. You will pass 3-4 beautiful overlooks along the way. Some excellent views of the South Mountains. The terrain does look prime for rattlers and copperheads, but we did not see any. There were plenty of boulders to scramble over, and many little peaks that you could traverse if you chose to do so. It makes the hike better than expected, as you have many 'mini' adventures on your way to the summit.

Once you return from the small 'out and back' portion of the trail that reaches the summit you will have a rapid descent. The trail is wide and clear all the way to the AT, so not much worry for rattlers or copperheads. If you parked on Buker Hill Road, the AT will take you right to your vehicle.

All in all, this was a really fun hike. Not much road walking the way I did it, and it is much shorter. Basically I had 'less filler, more thriller' by the path that I took.

Thanks again for maintaining this website, as a transplant I find it invaluable.

Joe

Name: .com                                                                                                              Hike: Blackwater Falls SP/Canaan Loop
Date: 7/9/11                                                                                                           Rating: 5

Critique: Camping at Deep Creek Lake Campground w/ my daughter & her friends, I planned a hike for myself. One hour's drive from DCL to Blackwater SP, right to BW Lodge. All trail directions were accurate, although at the first steep ascent, there is a minor trail detour. This is marked on the trail at both ends w/ a row of hay bales. Trails showed very good trail maintenance, except the Lindy Trail which was very narrow & overgrown. Still, blue blazes could be seen. The day I hiked, a huge storm had come though the day prior, torrential rain storms, so the entire trail & surrounding areas were very wet. Both Engine Run & Lindy Run were still draining, running very high. I had to remove my boots about 5 times to cross. All in all, this was a terrific hike! And I saw no one on the entire trail, wow!

Name: Jeremy                                                                                                         Hike: CKT- West
Date: 7/8-9/11                                                                                                       Rating: 3.5

Critique: My BIL and I had planned to hike the Allegheny Front Trail up until the morning we were set to leave for the hike. That morning I read on PAHikes that the trail was not in good shape, so we switched to this hike. I had very little time to research it, so I printed off the map and notes and I read them on the way up.

We did the hike as described here. The trail started out looking like the grassy areas had recently been mowed. That changed after a few miles when the trail is overrun with stinging nettles. Be prepared for this. We were only wearing our lightweight hiking pants, and they sting right through. Watch your hands too.

In the valley with the JU Branch, recent high winds have blown over HUNDREDS of trees. It looked like a war zone. Uproots everywhere. 90% have been cut away from the trail, but it is still slow going. The loose shale is just waiting to slip underfoot. We passed 2 other packers heading up out of the valley, and they confirmed that is was a big mess. Lots of side hill work. The campsite at the bottom of this section is huge, and looks like more of a Hilton than a rustic site.

I nearly stepped on a 3' rattler, he didn't even know we were there. Others we spoke to reported seeing as many as 6 snakes, so be careful.

We camped where the notes suggest the first night. We only found one fire ring, but the area was so overgrown with stinging nettles there could have been more.

We had to abandon the hike on the 2nd day after crossing back over 144. My right shoe had failed the day before and the blisters were getting bad. We walked 144 back north toward the parking area (~8mi). I made it half way until I could not walk anymore. My BIL hitched a ride and a nice local came back for me and took us back to the car.

We both have done the Black Forest Trail a couple of times. This trial can be just as challenging as the BFT, just without as many vistas. The BFT also seems to be in better condition. We are hoping to return and do the whole CKT in the fall when it is a little cooler and the frost has had a chance to kill off some of the vegetation.

We did see some turkey, deer and of course rattlers. There was also lots of bear scat and prints in some muddy areas.

Name: Tony Van Vugt                                                                                            Hike: FMF-Sand Flat-Salamander Circuit
Date: 7/9/2011                                                                                                       Rating: 4

Critique: MidAtlanticHikes.com has so many wonderful hikes that very few people seem to know about, and this is another. When you're done hiking with the crowds, and are looking for something different in the Frederick MD area give this hike a try. It has beautiful ponds and a wonderful vista/lunch spot on the Catoctin Trail. As the directions say, there isn't much elevation gain, but don't think this is just a walk in the woods. You will be feeling the 9.5 miles by the time you're done. If you decide to do this hike make sure to print out the directions, map, and we also had the GPS file loaded in our Garmin. All three were invaluable as this area is a virtual labyrinth of interconnecting trails. As a final note, the pictures on the hike page appear to taken in late winter and really don't do the beauty of the place justice. Enjoy!

Name: Kingston Bowen                                                                                         Hike: Pretty Boy Reservoir
Date: 7-3-2011                                                                                                        Rating: 4

Critique: My wife & I hiked the PrettyBoy on 3 July 11. We did not bring the trail map that we printed and that was a mistake. We stayed for the most part on the fire roads missing what was probably the best part of the hike. We did find a little path down to the water where we stopped to eat sandwiches. Great view of the Cove.

There was a family that was swimming and playing in the water. It also appeared that they were doing some grilling at waterside. While not a bother to us, we were concerned about the rules concerning swimming and such.

We cannot wait to go back and take the better pathway along the waterfront.

I now see the two markers that I encountered. It is clear from this map what I did, even though the trail names are not well labeled. I didn't find this map until after returning home. Not sure when the single .93 marker became one at .4 and another at .8, but it is clear on this map how the markers are. The important thing is to keep going DOWN and to the LEFT, which is what the trail notes say anyway!

Before reaching the Hull School Tr., there was a rather WIDE stream, probably isn't as wide normally, but there was only one way to get across it, walk through it, hence another reason to have Gortex boots.

The next unexpected thing on the longer loop, the trail notes say to turn left at the Hull School Fire Rd. Not only is it not a Fire Rd and cannot be due to the boulders in pathway, the trail marker is labeled, Hull School Tr. I knew there was an incline at the end, both the topo and the elevation map showed it, but that 800 ft climb in .8 miles was a killer after walking almost 9.6 miles and not having much in the way of energy bars and little water.

I was able to do the 11.5 miles in about 4.5 hours. I am a fast walker, about 3.5 miles per hour on good ground. The 1.88 hike up Little Devils Stairs took me 1 hour and 10 minutes with breaks. To say the least I was ready for some food and energy bars when I got to the top of the stairs!

The day was cool but humid and I went through 2 liters of water. If hiked in any heat, I would strongly recommend 3 litters of water.

I do not say the previous items to criticize anyone, just for the next person to have a better experience. I am grateful for the previous comments posted and glad someone is keeping a great web site. Part of the fun in hiking is figuring things out and exploring areas one hasn't been too. Enjoy our National Parks!

Name: Jeff                                                                                                                Hike: Dolly Sods Circumnavigation Mod1(Modified)
Date:045/21-22/2011                                                                                           Rating: 5

Critique: We turned our planned 3 days into 2 days because of cold rainy weather. Great hike though. As of 04/22 the gate was closed.

Name: Laura M.                                                                                                       Hike: Roaring Plains Base Camp and Day Hike
Date: attempted 04/15/11                                                                                  Rating: n/a

Critique: So my critique is more of a warning to those that want to do this trail - we drove 4 hours - arrived at 1am and decided to sleep in our cars and start fresh in the morning. The weather report that I found before we left was for Drydock, WV - it said 20% chance of rain, 40 degrees (F) for the low - so I thought, let's risk the rain, we can handle it. It turned out that it not only snowed by sleeted all night long (making for a v. cold car) - - the updated weather report in the morning had a warning for extreme wind conditions w/up to 50mph gusts - the warning suggested being v. cautious along ridgelines. So unfortunately - we decided it best to forgo this hike - and found a different trail in this area. My advice - make sure you have the weather report for the elevation that you will be at -- the weather @ 4K feet is v. different than the weather at 1500 feet. Also make sure you get a wind report and are prepared for snow/sleet in mid April! As a side note, we hiked along Red Creek in the valley (shielded from the wind) - and then up the mountain on a few other connecting trails. It is GORGEOUS in this area (although rocky, too!!!). We will def. go back to this area of Monongahela! Be careful - we were there after period of strong rain - and the creek crossings were very hairy in places. But all-in-all a beautiful area. Wish we got to see more of the ridgeline described in this hike - maybe next time!

Name: Chad Fike                                                                                                     Hike: Mt. Rogers Backpack (Modified)
Date: April 15-17, 2011                                                                                          Rating: 5

Critique: Parked at Grindstone and it seemed secure. I don't know if these conditions were common, but all the open areas were very windy, there were rapid weather & temperature changes and it got much colder than the forecast predicted. Although there were tent sites nearby, we stayed in the Thomas Knob Shelter on the first night because heavy rain was forecast overnight. It was incredibly windy there, with a steady roar all night from the wind & downpours with the metal roof shaking & banging like it was going to blow apart. Ponies came right to the shelter opening in the evening & morning and we saw several others in the distance at other times. We didn't leave the shelter until almost noon on Day 2 because of the rain but the skies cleared and we were treated to great views of the Highlands. Lots of running water in the trails but bridges over all major creek crossings. On Day 2 we deviated from this route and just hiked the AT for 11.1 miles to Old Orchard Shelter where there were lots of nice places to set up a tent. Woke up to sunny skies but a fresh layer of snow covering our tent on Day 3. Overall, the wonderful open vistas, ponies and extreme weather made a great adventure. Thanks for this very helpful map and description!

Name: Jared and Britt                                                                                            Hike: Dolly Sods Circumnavigation Mod1(Modified)
Date: 4/13-4/15/2011                                                                                          Rating: 5

Critique: Just got back from our first hike in Dolly Sods. It will not be our last!

We started from FR75 at Bear Rocks trail. The gate heading up to the ridge was open to our surprise (more on this later) since the Ranger office had told me it would not be open until at least the 15th. The road was in pretty good shape. We started from the trail head at noon. Fogged in, misting, windy, and about 34F. Despite the conditions, we were geared up and ready to go. The trail was VERY wet which would be the theme for the entire trip. Thankfully we were well prepared. The first crossing of Red Creek was cold and totally soaked us so we spent some time drying out and warming up there. We camped the first night in the Spruce grove just past Beaver View Trail to get out of the deteriorating conditions. The cold, wet night gave way to 2 days of superb blue sky weather. Day 2 we hiked Raven Ridge and Rocky Ridge and spent a lot of time exploring this area. Due to a late start Day 1 and slow Day 2 we decided to modify our route and took Breathed Mt trail down to the Forks. We had a wonderful campsite next to the falls, took a COLD swim, and did a lot of exploring. We had the Forks all to ourselves until about 8pm when a solo hiker set up camp nearby. Day 3 we slowly packed up and hiked out. There was a very wet and difficult crossing due to high water at Upper Red Creek and Dobbin Grade. We decided to take the alternate "unofficial trail" back up to Bear Rocks hoping to avoid more mud and water but even this trail was super wet. We got back to our car to find a bright orange note attached asking us to shut the FR gate behind us on our way out because it wasn't supposed to be open yet. We must have snuck by as the Ranger was up on the ridge. So as of 4/15, FR75 is still "officially" closed.

All in all trails were well marked and this was an excellent guide! We only saw a day hiking couple near Canaan Valley and the solo hiker at the Forks. There is still some snow up on the ridge which added to the beauty. Thank you for the excellent trail guide. We hope to explore more of the Sods on future trips!

Name: Ben                                                                                                                Hike: Mid State Trail - Blackwell to Little Pine
Date: 4/8/2011 to 4/10/2011                                                                             Rating: 4

Critique: We hiked this section of the Mid State trail in Pennsylvania over 3 days in early April. We went the opposite direction as it is written up, going south to north. Overall the hike was great. We intended to camp the first night at Ott Fork as described in the write up but couldn't find an established campsite so we decided to go north to the "large group campsite" by Silver Run. The 2nd day we went about 14 miles and camped at the small campsite by Bear Run described in the write up. This was a great campsite but there is really only room there for one or maybe two tents if you are creative. The hike was generally not too strenuous as much of it was on old grades and grassy roads in the game lands. The only challenge was the high water because of the large amount of rain in recent weeks. Many of the stream crossings were tricky and we had to ford Trout Run with our boots on as we had not brought other footwear and we thought it would be too dangerous to do in bare feet.

Name: MikeyLXT                                                                                                      Hike: Pond Run-White Rocks Loop
Date: 4/09-10/2011                                                                                               Rating: 5

Photos at https://picasaweb.google.com/MStinef....ectlink

As the weather report cleared up for this weekend I decided on Thursday to get out and go backpacking.  After all this may be the last time I get to strap on my backpack and go out in the woods for awhile.  My wife is due May 4th with our first kiddo!

I called up my buddy John Friday morning and like any great friend he was up for a last minute trip.  After a bit of research I settled in on doing a loop at White Rocks, WV.  I enjoy the Big Schloss loop so much I figured this one would be great also.  We did this hike in reverse.

The drive to the trailhead was nice and easy although it was extremely foggy over the mountains on Route 55…hints of what would be to come.  As soon as we got out of the car I had to throw on my long sleeves and I knew it was going to be a bit chillier then the forecast had showed.  While we were getting everything together  a string of horseback riders continued to pass by the parking lot.  It seems that there was a large trail riding event going on that day (they sure do a number on the trail).  Luckily for us most of them had passed by and didn’t encounter too many once we actually got on the trail.  

The long hike up to White Rocks was very enjoyable.  The gradual pitch made it very easy and didn’t affect either of us very much.  As we climbed higher and higher the fog continued to close in on us.  When we made it to White Rocks it was as if we were staring out into a snow storm.   I must come back on a clear do to see the view as I am sure it was great.  Oh well….back to the trail!  We filled up with water at the spring on Little Stony Run trail and continued on to our camp.  We had planned to stay the night at a campsite on Mill Mountain Trail about ¼ mile from the intersection with the Tuscarora Trail.  However once we got there we realized that with the lack of large trees and undergrowth to block the wind we needed to find a different location.    We ended up camping at the rocky site about 100 yards down the Tuscarora Trail.  We found a great level spot in the rear of this area with plenty of undergrowth to slow the wind.

We set up our shelter which consisted of a tarp I had just purchased for $20(what a steal!) and began collecting wet wood to attempt a fire.   It is easy to tell that this is a seldom used campsite because of the abundance of good firewood.  We barely had to go 100’ to collect all that we would need for the night and following morning.  It only took us 2 tries…1 pathetic one and 1 in which I cheated a bit by using some denatured alcohol ...hey the wood was all wet!!!  I even used my brand new $4 ikea wood stove and it worked great!  It may take a bit longer to boil water then a traditional canister but I think this is something I really enjoy using.  Once the fire died down we settled in for the night.  It did get rather chilly and if I had to do it over again I would have taken my 20 degree bag.  It never rained on us but it was extremely foggy and the mist would collect on the trees and then fall off in big droplets.

During the night all the fog blew away and when we got up it was crystal clear.  The sun even greeted us as we ate breakfast.  After packing up we continued our way down the trail.  The views were great this morning and Pond Run was crystal clear.  We got back to the car with 3 happy dogs and 2 happy backpackers.

Great hike and one ill do again.

Name: Donna Miller                                                                                                Hike: Roaring Plains Base Camp and Day Hike
Date: 9/4/2010-9/6/2010                                                                                   Rating: 5

Critique: Beautiful! A perfect three day hike, with an easy first and third day, and a quite lovely day hike the second day.

We loved this hike--one of us had some compass skills, one of us had a GPS along. Neither compass nor GPS was needed (though we felt better having a GPS along). The Canyon Rim Trail's not difficult to follow, *as long as you are careful and stay alert*.

At the bottom of the "Mother of All Talus Slopes" we lost the Canyon Rim Trail--it took three of us 15 minutes to find it again. This was the only spot we had a bit of trouble. But don't let that turn you away... this hike has it all--incredibly gorgeous views along the rim, solitude along the rim trail, few hikers, and a peaceful campsite in a beautiful grass opening by a small creek.

Name: Doug Washabaugh                                                                                     Hike: Quebec Run Loop
Date: 03/26-27/2011                                                                                            Rating: 4

Critique: My fiancé and I did this to get a jump on spring, and test out some new gear. Everything is well marked, and no bushwacking. This is a great "starter" hike or if you are looking to test some new gear. After getting the "official" map from the mailbox at the start of the hike we realized that you could make this into an even longer circuit if you wanted, but there is absolutely nothing wrong with how it is described here. This hike has lots of water available. We did see a lot of people on the trail, considering it was so early in the season. There was a Boy Scout troop, a couple other pairs of hikers, and a few mountain bikers. I wonder if it is overused in the warmer months.

Name: John                                                                                                              Hike: Rausch Gap Loop
Date: 04-02-11                                                                                                        Rating: 2.5

Critique: Hiked this trail on a Saturday an April, there was little spectacular about it. Minimal elevation change and did not have much for views. Had some prettier spots around the streams at the section where it meets up with the AT. Also, the cemetary was interesting. Last 3.6 miles were on a closed forest road. Good day hike if it is close by, otherwise wouldn't recommend. Also the Google map directions listed on the page are slightly off the starting point is on gold mine Rd., not at the lat. and long. provided.

Name: Peter                                                                                                             Hike: Pond Run-White Rocks Loop
Date: 4/2-4/3/2011                                                                                              Rating: 5

Critique: Did loop as prescribed. Nice views from Halfmoon Lookout and White Rocks. Plenty of water opportunities and campsites. We (13 people) did this a an overnight trip, found a great site near just up the hill from the Sugar Knob Hut. It snowed Saturday during the hike and much heavier later in the evening. Between snow showers we were able to start a nice campfire and cook a gourmet meal (filet mignon, vegetable medley, and bake potatoes). Since we had 13 people, we had plenty of "mules". The rain, snow, crazy meal, and 50 degree weather Sunday made for a unusual over-night hike. We were surprised to see two large groups of hikers that passed our campsite with the weather forecast we had for the weekend. It appeared to be a club thing as the trails had extra markers once on the Tuscarora Trail.

Name: Tom O'Donnell                                                                                            Hike: Bear Meadows-Indian Wells Loop
Date: 3/26/11                                                                                                         Rating: 4

Critique: I hiked the loop with Jason D. and Kyla (The Dog) on 3/26/11. We had planned for an overnight backpack and expected night time lows in the mid-teens with some snow possible. Arrived at the Bear Meadows trailhead around 0900 in bright sun, but temp. in the 20's. Found the trail in good condition and well marked. Rocky and wet in spots. Rhododendrons had a light coating of ice. Good spring as marked on the map. Had lunch at the first campsite indicated on the map, with it's nice piped spring. Other than the spring close by this is not what I would call a great campsite. Might change my opinion with vegetation in leaf.
Hit the trips one big uphill. Looks like old RR grade, very rocky and covered with a light coating of ice/snow for some slippery spots.Reached the ridge line to find all the vegetation covered with a coating of crystal-clear ice. Weather continued sunny, but still cold. As a result we did not linger at any of the fine vistas, as we would have had the weather been milder. Trail on the ridge line is very rocky, but level. Saw KTA trail crew returning to their vehicles after some maintenance on this section. We reached the campsites and Keith Spring (which we did not investigate) early in the afternoon. We didn't relish the prospect of crashing around in the ice covered vegetation looking for firewood so we resolved to press on back to the truck and call it a day.
Finished the loop in about eight hours.I'd hike the trail again, and would like to see it in June with the laurel and rhododendron in bloom. The campsites near Keith Spring are nice if you don't require a fire since gathering wood would take some effort.

Name: stretch                                                                                                         Hike: Tea Creek Reversed
Date: 03/19/2011                                                                                                  Rating: 5

Critique: Tea Creek Trail isn't the only trail with blue diamond blazes, all trails in the area have them. Tea Creek Trail no longer parallels the creek when you first cross the bridge, the first third mile or so is eroded and bypassed so that Tea Creek Trail takes you into the mountain at first. Make sure you get Tea Creek Trail instead of Tea Creek Mountain trail, unless you want to hike the loop in reverse (which I enjoyed).

Tea Creek is beautiful, especially the right fork of tea creek, which had even stronger tea colored water. The water was very foamy, there were whirls of foam that stood more than a foot high. The old railroad ballast is very coarse, so make sure you wear sturdy shoes.

All signs at trail intersections were new and in excellent shape, the trails were well marked. I don't believe the Adirondack shelter exists anymore, the only shelter we saw was at the intersection of tea creek and right fork of tea creek. There are privy bathrooms at the parking area.

Name: Saki and Rocky                                                                                           Hike: Overall Run Falls-Heiskell Hollow

Date: 03/19/2011                                                                                                  Rating: 4

Critique: About 3 miles of this hike are truly spectacular.  That part would certainly get a 5+ rating in my book and is reason in and of itself to visit.  The views of the falls, the rushing water, and the valley are breathtaking.  But many of the other parts are mediocre or good, particularly when the trees are without leaves.  There are lots of difficult stream crossings.  This is a great springtime hike, when there is still plenty of water in the creeks, leaves on the trees, and it is warm enough to jump in the swimming hole.

Read Saki's full report here.

Name: Sparrow                                                                                                         Hike: Trout Run Valley Circumnavigation
Date: 3/16 - 3/18 2011                                                                                          Rating: 4.5

Critique: Overall I found this hike to be a straightforward excursion which merits the strenuous difficulty rating. Staring straight up hill from the trailhead gets you to the top of Big Schloss in no time for some breathtaking views in all directions. There is a new bridge connecting the trail to the summit.

Continuing down the trail I found that Sandstone spring was too inviting to pass up and I had trouble choosing between the many nice campsites just to the right of the trail. The next day's walk along the ridge took me past many more nice spots to spend the night but without water. Halfmoon lookout provided a spectacular view of the valley from the north and a great place to stop for lunch. Continuing on I found that the blazes on the rock field were faded and difficult to follow. I spent night two at the campsite near the intersection of the Trout Pond Trail.

Day three was mainly long gradual uphills until the flat of FR 691 then more uphill gradually getting steeper to the top of Tibbet Knob. The view at the top is unexpected and probably the best view of the entire hike but the trail down the other side is very steep, difficult and slow going, so be careful. The Wolf Gap campground has plenty of parking and picnic tables as well as primitive toilets and a water pump across from the parking lot.

In general the trails were empty of people and offered numerous good campsites all along the circuit allowing for lots of flexibility in the daily mileage of this hike. M.R.Hyker has definitely high-lited the best spots though. I also encountered lots of wind so be sure you have enough stakes for you shelter.

Name: Vince                                                                                                             Hike: Fair Hill green trail (north loop)
Date: 3/19/2011                                                                                                     Rating: 2

Critique: On the first beautiful day of the year I decided to check something new out for a change. I was getting tired of my usual trails. Well I have to say that the rolling hills and laser etched paths through fields were very pretty, but overall this was an awful hike. Usually when I go on a "hike" it's on a trail or path, not a road. About 90% of this hike was on a gravel road. I ended up taking the final bailout route due to boredom. Not to mention dodging mounds of horse droppings wasn't very enjoyable. Don't get me wrong, it's a pretty area and a good walk if you live close by, but I wouldn't recommend traveling more than 20 minutes to visit the Fair Hill NRMA.

Name: Chris Dittman                                                                                              Hike: FMF-Sand Flat-Salamander Circuit
Date: 3/18/11                                                                                                         Rating: 4
 

Critique: First off thanks for this loop, it was great for the first sunny 75 degree Friday this year, only saw 2 couples and heard a few cars in the latter half of the hike which really surprised me. I agree with the difficulty being moderate, I did the loop in 5 hours with a few rest breaks included, but this loop is NOT FOR INEXPERIENCED HIKERS (explained below). The elevation changes were very gradual, the only challenge is the usual rocky MD trails at times, and sand at other times. Aside from that I'd like to provide some feedback on the trail notes:

If you are not very comfortable with a map and compass or GPS device, you will probably get lost at times. Reading each line of the trail notes as you get there does work but most of the trail is not marked at all so pay close attention to the details of the trail notes especially once you get to the salamander trail. Particularly the cluster of trails 1 mile past the Piedmont Plateau confused me without reading the notes carefully first. Without GPS I would have ended up back at the road. Lastly the final horseshoe of trails before the parking lot (.3, .3, and .2 miles) was very wet for the first half of it, I don't feel it was worth an extra half mile instead of walking the road back to the parking lot but I did anyway because I didn't feel like walking the road!

Name: Kenny Lee                                                                                                    Hike: Big Schloss
Date: 3/19/2011                                                                                                    Rating: 4

Critique: Very pleasant hike. The bridge work has completed and you can get to the top of Big Schloss and enjoy the great view!

Name: James Leo                                                                                                   Hike: Mount Rogers Backpack

Date: 02/26-28/11                                                                                                Rating: 6

James when through a lot of effort to make a table of trail notes with his comments. It's too large to post here but you can read the PDF file here. You can see his awesome photos here.

Name: GinaCico                                                                                                       Hike: Susquehanna SP
Date: 02/21/2011                                                                                                  Rating: 5

Critique: I had President's Day off, and did this hike solo in about 4 hours. I posted a trip report here:
http://pasadenagina.smugmug.com/OutdoorAdventures/Susquehanna-2011Feb21/

The rewards were many.... scenic views of the river, historic sites, narrow trails through wide open fields, giant trees, and wildlife. Except for some downed trees due to recent storms, and the deteriorating railroad grade, the trails are exceptionally well maintained. Even on a chilly February holiday, one trail maintenance crew was hard at work clearing debris, while several park crews were working on improvements to the Flint Tower and campground facilities.

Notably, new signs have been installed at all of the points where the description said they were needed.

Thanks for providing the GPS information. I have the NG Topo software, which loaded the file with no problems. I also used the GPS text file for non-Topo users. With some editing I managed to import the waypoints onto my Lowrance handheld GPS unit, using the MapCreate 6 software that came with it. Sadly, the batteries died about 1/3 through the route (never rely solely on a GPS!), but the waypoints seemed accurate and helpful.

Awesome hike!

Name: Rich Johnson                                                                                               Hike: Old Rag
Date: 02/11/2011                                                                                                  Rating: 5

Critique: A friend and I set out to climb Old Rag. We set out from the lower parking lot at 5:40AM. It was only 9 degrees. Going up through the woods and the switch backs was pretty easy going. There was a few inches of snow with a layer of ice beneath. We got up the some of the first vistas just after sunrise and we had very clear skies. Getting up to the actual summit was a little tough. Most boulders were covered in ice and snow so climbing up and finding the blue blaze route was a little tough. We managed to follow and make our own route around the ice covered boulders. Awesome views from the summit. Coming down the north side was very hard. I fell countless times due to all of the ice. Finally I just did some glissading. It was pretty fun. Once down the the fire it was easy going. Awesome winter trip. Didn't see one other person from the time we left the car till the time we got back.

Name: RoyalT                                                                                                           Hike: Tuscarora Standing Stone Loop
Date: Jan 29 & 30, 2011                                                                                         Rating: 4.5

Critique: This was my first time in this part of the state and man was I impressed. The geography was completely unexpected. I didn't realize that areas like this existed in PA. This area basically consists of two parallel ridges that rise nearly 1000 feet from the valley floor where a creek flows. And on the eastern side, there is a little notch in the ridge, called Cowans Gap, that leads to the next valley over. The views from Cove Mtn where the SST follows the ridgeline are awesome. Because of its elevation and seclusion, it felt like I was somewhere far from PA, especially in the winter where the snow and temps make it feel like Canada or Alaska.

This is an extremely cool area in the winter. When its covered in snow, it is absolutely breathtaking. The lake was frozen over which allowed us to walk across it. Plus the snow allowed us to be aware of and identify all the wildlife around us. There were birds, foxes, deer and maybe even a coyote. Im really glad I did this trip and would recommend it. The hiking is fairly easy too since you are either on the flattish Tuscarora Trail or the ridgeline. The only real pain is the hike up to the ridge which is straight up.

We did a shortened version of the route described above because one in our group was hiking for the first time in his life, let alone first time winter hiking and camping. So the climb really wiped him out. We did a little over 4 miles. One thing to be aware of, is the lack of water on the ridge. You will need to pack all your water in unless you want to hike up and down the ridge a few times.

Name: Linda                                                                                                                Hike: Sugarloaf Mountain
Date: Sept 15 2010                                                                                                    Rating: 4

Critique: First off, someone needs to proof read the directions - particularly the ones on the "Printable/downloadable directions." I printed that off to lead a hike of 9 other ladies yesterday. Some of the ladies had printed off the first page of the hike site instead. That page is correct - the "printable" ones are not. Specifically - the front page of the hike says to come down to Mt. Ephraim road, turn left, cross a stream, etc. THAT is correct. The "printable" directions tell you to turn RIGHT on Mt. Ephraim road and says nothing about a stream crossing. That is completely wrong.

Also - where the map shows the Green Trail running right into the Blue Trail.....either it actually does not meet the Blue Trail or it is so poorly blazed that it is impossible to figure out where they connect. We followed it to where the staircase comes up - and from there lost all trace of it. No blazes, no indications of where to go next. So we backtracked and followed the Red Trail back to the Blue.

One vista point is listed as the "Lawton vista" on the directions but when you get there the name of it on the signpost is "McCormack vista."

The Blue Trail comes up to a cleared area, about 1/2 or mile or so before White Rocks, where there is an old stack of stones - appears to have been an attempt at a structure of some kind. From there the Blue Trail goes both to the right and to the left. The directions say nothing about either this "land mark" or which way to go. Fortunately we had a copy of the map and figured it out. If someone is hiking only with the printed directions, they'd wouldn't know which way to go.

I'd have given this hike a 5 but for the incredibly bad blazing and signage.

M.R.Hyker Note: Corrections have been made. The stone steps are part of the Green trail. They lead to the road. Turn right when you reach the road and in a short distance you'll find the Blue trail.

Name: Tristan (Adirondackiteer)                                                                            Hike: Dolly Sods Wilderness Via Rohrbaugh
Date: 7/29/10                                                                                                            Rating: 4.5

Critique: Let me start by saying our trip was a hybrid between this trail map (Dolly Sods Wilderness Backpack) and Rohrbaugh Plains/Dolly Sods Shuttle. What we did is start on the Rohrbaugh Plains Tr and then a loop around Red Creek, Breathed Mnt Tr, Big Stone Coal, Rocky Point Tr, back to Red Creek, back to Rohrbaugh Plains Tr. My friend was familiar with the Rohrbaugh Tr so we started there, and it was a fairly easy (it was late in afternoon when we arrived) hike in to the great overlook for the first nights camp. I think this is a great view and too bad it is only incorporated into one of the hikes on this website and not more. On a Thursday night we had the place to ourselves.

Red Creek was great and even at the low water levels there were still swimming holes in a few spots.

My favorite night's camp along the route was at The Forks, even though according to my friend we didn't get the best spot right on the fork. Our site was just upstream of it and still right on the edge of the bank of Red Creek. The Forks was the first spot we saw other hikers.

Breathed Mt Tr was a nice change of scenery and lots of blueberries everywhere. The ascent is pretty steep and rocky.

The campsite on the 'beach' of Big Stonecoal was nice but unfortunately the water was very low. There wasn't barely a trickle noise to be heard. It would be beautiful at higher water levels though.

As others have said Rocky Pt Tr is incredibly rocky. And mainly little rocks, I was not expecting that part. I can handle climbing over boulders and such but these are smallish rocks like softball to cantaloupe sized and nearly impossible to get a good footing anywhere without sliding of the sides of them and such. Not recommended for those with bad ankles! That part of the trail we didn't do as an out-and-back, but rather as part of our main loop back to Red Creek. The Lions Head was nice but I still like the un-named vista the best. We did not come across a large cairn on the left to guide us up to the Lions Head, we did come across a small one on both sides but kept going looking for just a large one on the left. After gps showed we were at the big point on the trail we decided just to climb up.

Overall we didn't keep up nearly the pace of the hikes here, averaging 5mi per day, for a few reasons. But it was a nice pace, we slept in, played around in the creek for a few hours a couple of different days, etc. There was no need to rush, especially with the rocky areas of the trails. It was a fantastic trip, and in 5 days (2 of them being very short trips in and out) we still covered ~19mi, 2 vistas, and the wonderful Red Creek. This was actually my first hike in WV and also the first in a 10+ year absence for me.

Also, if there are any Amateur Radio Operators out there we were able to talk clearly on the Davis repeater both times we tried, from the beach campsite on Big Stonecoal and the un-named vista. This was a big relief to us, since neither of us had cell phone reception.

A special thanks to MrHyker for putting this all together. The information and trail maps, notes, and gps info were invaluable.

Name: Moonshine                                                                                                       Hike: Otter Creek - SE
Date: 7/24-7/25/2010                                                                                             Rating: 4

Critique: I hiked all Shavers Mtn Tr from Alpena Gap picnic area and camped at the old logging camp area near the intersection of Green Mt and Possession Camp trails. I have not seen anyone on the trail all day, but the trail was always easy to follow. The water source near the former shelter site was disappointing. Even after filtering the water stank.

A little below the intersection of Otter Creek, More Run and Possession Camp trails is one of the best swimming holes of the area.

If you have water shoes, exploring Devil's Gulch creek bed can be fun. I wonder how this stream got such an unusual name.

Name: Trillium                                                                                                             Hike: Green Brier SP
Date: 7-10-10                                                                                                             Rating: 3

Critique: If criteria include opportunities for interacting with nature, think again. I saw a doe and twin spotted fawns, heard a wood thrush's gorgeous song, identified five species of native ferns and various fungi--including enchanting pixie cups, photographed a glittering teardrop shaped spider web backlit by the setting sun, and snacked on ripe red raspberries.

Name: Icebeard                                                                                                          Hike: Kelly's run/Pinnacle Overlook
Date: 7/24/10                                                                                                            Rating: 5

Critique: Hiked this one @sunrise to beat the heat! {supposed to be 103 today} Great hike, beautiful scenery. I like to do this one to keep myself in shape for my Appalachian Trail section hikes. Good climb up the pinnacle. Entire loop takes about 2.5 hours including breaks. Highly recommended!

Name: Kevin                                                                                                                Hike: Ricketts Glen Falls Trail Loop
Date: 6/24/10                                                                                                            Rating: 5

Critique: My son and I hiked the full 7.2 mile Falls Trail Loop in June 2010. We started at the parking lot on Rt. 118 and proceeded up Red Rock Mt. A little bit of a boring walk to the first waterfall but that is what we get for not taking the easier 3.2 mile loop. We figured if we were going to do it we had to do it all.

Once we hit the first fall the walk was worth it. The water level was not as high as I had seen in some pics, due to lack of recent rain, but beautiful just the same.

We took a right at Waters Meet so we would be able to see Ganoga Falls from the front. This is the biggest falls in the park. There are some pretty steep stone steps so be prepared to climb. When we reached the top of Gonaga Glen we were ready for the easy stretch on the Highland Trail section of the hike.

Our decent down Glen Leigh was just as beautiful as our assent up Gonaga Glen. The power of water to carve never ceases to amaze me.

By the time we reached the car, a little over 4 hrs after we started, we were tired and hungry. We headed straight for the Trails End Restaurant a few miles down Rt. 118. Nothing fancy here but good food at good prices to feed the hungry hiker.

I highly recommend trekking poles for this hike and don't forget your camera.

Name: Moonshine                                                                                                      Hike: Rocky Knob-Quarry Gap Loop
Date: 7/17/2010                                                                                                       Rating: 5

Critique: This time I left the car in Caledonia SP and took AT all the way to the turn on Rocky Knob Tr. There were quite a lot of hikers on AT, so if you are looking for solitude and/or bear-watching it is not the place. There are blueberries and huckleberries everywhere, and the lake is just beautiful.