We recently returned to the famous Appalachian Trail (AT) in PA to hike one of its more scenic, and rugged, sections. We parked off of Route 309 and soon began hiking north on the AT, passing small campsites and thickets of laurel. The trail was nice, but became increasingly more rocky. There were some nice views to the south over the rolling farmlands and distant ridges.
The trail crossed a powerline with views and a cairn. From there, the rocks began to take over as we reached the crest of the ridge with a fine view. Further up the cliffs was a lone vulture, looking quite large as it enjoyed the sun.
Rock hopping soon followed as we passed several other hikers. Large outcrops were to our right. We followed the trail as it scrambled up the rocky spine of the Knife Edge and its superb views. I could see the Pinnacle and Pulpit Rock in the distance. We sat and got a bite to eat in the bright sun.
Scrambling the rest of the Knife Edge was fun and we were soon back in the woods, which featured more hemlocks and another good view to the south as we hiked across the rocks.
Soon, Bear Rocks appeared to the left and I followed the blue trail to the top, which requires some scrambling. This is one of the best rock outcrops along the AT in PA as it towers over the trees and provides several views to the east and north. I followed the spine of the outcrop, enjoying all the views and the scrambling, finishing with a view to the west. I dropped from the rocks and returned to the AT, retracing our steps back to the car under a setting sun.
This is an easy hike in terms of elevation gain, but challenging due to the rocks, Knife Edge, and Bear Rocks. There are several fine views. It is about 3.5-4 miles one way.
More photos.
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