Take a Hike: Local experts give opinion on best trails in area
Pictured is Baughman Rock overlook in Ohiopyle State Park. The Sugarloaf trail and Baughman Trail, which are a more difficult trails, are meant for only hikers in good physical condition or experienced hikers.
Ben Moyer
A boardwalk and observation platform lead visitors into the heart of Spruce Flats Bog Wildlife Area, atop Laurel Ridge northeast of Donegal. Rare wetland plants grow close to the boardwalk.
Residents are invited to “Take A Hike” this weekend in recognition of National Take A Hike Day, which is being observed this Saturday.
With 12,000 miles and 650 trails in Pennsylvania, there’s no shortage of places to take a hike, and that is especially true in Fayette, Westmoreland, Greene and Washington counties. The area has some of the most beautiful hiking spots in the state. Hiking, a good mind and body workout, is an activity that can be done regardless of age, physical condition or interest level.
Local or county park systems offer a variety of hiking opportunities, including parks and trails a short drive for most. Hikers who want a bigger challenge, or to check out the must-see spots can look to state parks, like Ohiopyle State Park near Farmington.
According to Barb Wallace, Environmental Education Specialist and Park Naturalist, the park boasts 80 miles of hiking and biking trails, which is more than any other state park in Pennsylvania.
Wallace said the most popular is the 27 miles of the Great Allegheny Passage that transverses the park and is a great trail for beginners. Hikers can get on the GAP and go in either direction and according to Wallace, at this time of year there are more hikers than bikers due to the low temperature and inclement weather threats.
“Of all of our trails, this is the only really flat one,” said Wallace.
The Great Gorge Trail is also fairly level. However, Wallace said novice hikers first stop should be at the visitor’s center, which is open 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Hikers need to grab a paper map, though, because cell phones and GPS devices may not work in some areas of the park.
In addition, Wallace said hikers should make sure they are prepared, especially at this time of year, when weather is definitely a challenge.
She suggests dressing in layers, bringing a bag stocked with extra water, dry clothing and snacks in case the hike takes longer than anticipated or hikers become lost.
Some trails have loops so hikers don’t have to turn around and hike back, but many do not. Wallace suggests asking park personnel about trails that can be combined to create a loop, such as Sugarloaf Trail and Baughman Rock Trail, which is a more difficult trail and meant for only hikers in good physical condition or experienced hikers.
If you are looking for a more moderate trail, Wallace suggests Meadow Run Trail, which will take you to the Cascades and a very pretty waterfall to view at the park.
Unfortunately, Wallace said the popular Jonathan Run Trail is still closed due to bridges that were washed out by flooding several years back. The park has replaced one bridge, but there is still another that needs to be rebuilt before hikers can hike that trail again.
Other hiking spots in Fayette County include trails around Fort Necessity National Battlefield, Friendship Hill National Historic Sites, the trails around Jumonville, Indian Creek Valley Trail and many more. Visit www.stepstoahealthierfayettecounty.org for a complete list of hiking trails, parks and spots to enjoy a hike.
If you want to head outside of Fayette, Westmoreland, Washington and Greene counties also boast some great hiking opportunities of their own.
In Westmoreland County, the Laurel Highlands Visitors Bureau, suggests Spruce Flats Bog and Wildlife Area in Forbes State Forest in Laughlintown. A 300-acre wildlife area, it’s home to unique plants that haven’t been seen locally since the last ice age. Also, you’ll find cranberry, cotton grass and insect eating plans as well as an abundance of wildlife.
Mount Davis in Forbes State Forest is also suggested. It is the highest point in Pennsylvania at 3,212 feet. Take a camera!
The Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail, a 70-mile backpacking and hiking trail is also a must-visit for experienced hikers. There are also some easy hiking spots, such as Davis Run Trail in Keystone State Park in Derry TOwnship and Cole Run Trail in Forbes State Forest.
In Greene County, some spots to explore include Greene River Trail, Warrior Trail and the Greensboro Hiking and Biking Trail.
In Washington County, Montour Trail, Mounds Park, Mingo Creek County Park, Panhandle Trail, Ten-Mile Creek Park are just a few places to hike.
Experts from the state Department of Conservation and Natural Resources offered some tips for a successful hiking experience.
Plan: Don’t overestimate your abilities. Beginners should start with a short, level hike. Map out the route out first to prevent getting lost. Be aware that cellphones don’t work in some areas. Always carry a paper map and compass and know how to use them.
Bring a friend: Don’t go alone. Although hiking can be a valuable solitary escape, enjoyment and safety doubles with a friend.
Check the weather: Don’t go if severe weather is in the forecast. If caught in bad weather, seek shelter immediately. If shelter isn’t available, avoid open areas and head to small groups of trees. Squat to the minimum height and keep only your feet in contact with the ground.
Leave an itinerary behind: Share the route and expected return time with someone else who can send help.
Stay on the trail: Wandering off the trail can have serious consequences, like injuries or getting lost. Also, some trails have been built through delicate habitats and leaving the trail could disturb those or cross onto private land.
The American Hiking Society also offers a number of tools for hikers, including, test that’s right there’s an app for that. Visit www.americanhiking.org for information on the 200,000 miles of trails that crisscross America, hiking tips and a link to the app, which includes maps, tools and doesn’t require a cell signal.