Places to backpack:
I have only scratched the surface (if you even want to call it that) of backpacking in Pennsylvania. Because of this fact I bought the book Backpacking Pennsylvania, 37 Great Hikes by Jeff Mitchell in order to broaden my backpacking knowledge. This book is fantastic highlighting the appeal of each hike, how to get to the trail, length, difficulty, type of terrain, vegetation, water sources, maps and all the information needed to get through these hikes safely and to have the most fun while doing it. Here are a sampling of those hikes:
- Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail
- 70-mile linear trail from Ohiopyle to Seward.
- Takes 5-9 days to through hike, but I have heard of it being done in three days or less. Every year there are people who run the trail actually, an amazing feat considering the moderately difficult terrain.
- Trail is well blazed with yellow markers, access trails are marked by blue markers.
- Shelters are placed on the trail and they all provide potable water and bathrooms.
- Pets are permitted in all campsites.
- The trail rises 1,400 feet from Ohiopyle to Seward and crosses many major roads, most notably the PA Turnpike. A brand new bridge was just installed and is ready for use as of January 2012.
- In order to receive maps of the trail and to reserve a shelter call 1-888-PA-PARKS or visit their website at www.dcnr.state.pa.us. There is a fee to reserve a shelter, $4 a person.
