Outdoor Adventure Friends

Speed: 2 to 2-1/2 mph
Not sure if you’re ready for a more intense hike, or want to test what level your hiking skills are at? This hike will do just that.

We will climb and descend both the east and west sides of Wind Gap on the Appalachian Trail multiple times. Why Wind Gap you ask? Since we drive most of the way up the Mountain, Our climb is a smaller 400ft elevation Gain on each ascent, compared to 1000 – 1200ft elevation gain at the PA AT’s four main river crossing gaps. And we’re never more than 3/4 mile from our cars, except on the final ascent where we’ll follow the ridge for some nice views to reward ourselves for all the hard work we put into getting to this point.

If you’re struggling to do the climb, don’t worry, we’re coming back down and will meet you where you are, so you can join us on the downhill (this is how you test your skill level). You’ll still have fun and you'll get a good workout.

Note: This is not a beginner hike, it is 80% hills. It averages out to an 800ft / mile climb (15% Grade). This means ascending 1600ft over two miles and descending 1600ft over another two miles, with a little bit of level ground in between. You do not want to attempt this hike if you have knee problems.

The trail, typical for the AT in PA is very rocky with some gnarled tree roots thrown in for good measure. Hiking boots or trail runners are best. A hiking stick or two or a solid tree branch is recommended. Bring at least two bottles of water, a snack and electrolyte/energy chews, etc.

By signing up for this hike you acknowledge you are responsible for your own safety.

Snapshot:
Intensity: Moderate +
Length: 11.5 miles (longer if we get lost...lol)
Duration: 5-6 hours
Pace: 3.2 ish
Elevation: 2,100 feet
Description:

Harriman State Park offers over 200 miles of hiking trails with a variety of terrain and beautiful views. Today we will tackle about 11.5 miles of the trail system with the following points of interest:
Lemon Squeezer
Island Pond
Valley of Boulders
Bowling Rocks

I did a similar hike here in June and it was amazing (thanks Wendy!). It was quite the adventure, so I am game to explore the area again. This is another bring some patience hike as I recall the trails being a little difficult to follow- lots of intersecting paths, not all trails well marked, etc...
GEAR REQUIRED:
1- Proper footwear- hiking boots or trail runners for hikes in woods; sneakers ok for urban hikes.
2- Appropriate clothing for conditions: layers, wind and rain protection based upon forecast. Extra socks for wet weather hikes or hikes with stream crossings.
3- WATER or other source of hydration; food/snacks as needed and suggested for hikes over 8 miles
4- Electrolytes for longer hikes
5- Hiking poles and backpacks as needed.
6- Sunscreen, bug spray and bear spray as desired
7- Headlamps for night hike
8- Must pack micro spikes on all weekend hikes December through March. Ice and snow always possible.

WEATHER: All winter hikes are dependent upon safe travel conditions to and from the hiking area. We will hike in existing snow and very light rain. Heavier, cold rain will cancel

PARKING AND MEETING LOCATION: parking area at Lake Skanatati off Seven Lakes Drive. See Meetup PIN.

GUEST and ATTENDANCE POLICY: All attendees must be members of Outdoor Adventure Friends. This is for communication purposes to ensure that those in attendance understand exactly what they are signing up for. Please be courteous and change your rsvp in a timely fashion if you can no longer attend an event. Repeated no shows or a history of signing up and dropping off excessively when there is a waitlist will exclude you from being moved off of future waitlists and special events

PLEASE NOTE: I cannot respond to calls, texts, emails, messages on meetup, or comments on the event page once we start hiking. Please plan accordingly.

NOTICE: Meetup organizers are not professionally trained. By attending an event you are agreeing that YOU ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR YOUR OWN SAFETY AT ALL TIMES. No member of the group EXCEPT YOURSELF can be held responsible for any damages, accidents, or liabilities incurred while hiking with us.

This will be our fifth weekday evening hike at Valley Forge for the year. As the sunset gets later, our mileage gets longer. We'll gain about a half mile every two weeks. This week we'll get in about 5 miles and 800 – 1000ft of elevation gain at a decent pace (apprx. 3.0-3.3 mph)

Moderate - Advanced level, along the trails of Mt Joy and now that we have more daylight, we'll add Mt. Misery to the mix. Best to wear hiking boots or trail running shoes as we'll be on the dirt trails with rocks and tree roots, not paved paths.

Definitely recommend hydrating before the hike and bring plenty of water and a snack.

Bring your speedy shoes

Dogs are welcome but must be kept on a static length leash at all times.

By signing up you accept responsibility for your own safety.