Thousand Steps Trail Is A Challenging Hike In Pennsylvania That Will Make Your Stomach Drop
By Beth Price-Williams|Published October 15, 2020
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Beth Price-Williams
Author
A professional writer for more than two decades, Beth has lived in nearly a dozen states – from Missouri and Virginia to Connecticut and Vermont – and Toronto, Canada. In addition to traveling extensively in the U.S. and the U.K., she has a BA in Journalism from Point Park University (PA), a MA in Holocaust & Genocide Studies from Stockton University (NJ), and a Master of Professional Writing from Chatham University (PA). A writer and editor for Only In Your State since 2016, Beth grew up in and currently lives outside of Pittsburgh and when she’s not writing or hanging out with her bunnies, budgies, and chinchilla, she and her daughter are out chasing waterfalls.
Are you up for a challenge? You’ll find plenty of trails that challenge you dotted throughout the state, but the Thousand Steps Trail in Pennsylvania is one of a kind. You’ll definitely face a challenge as you climb up the 1,000 steps – yes, there really are 1,000 steps – that lead to sensational views. Before you set off, be prepared for the adventure and the excitement that await.
Part of the longer 84-mile Standing Stone Trail, the Thousand Steps Trail measures just 3.4 miles, but that relatively short trek packs a lot of punch, especially when it comes to gorgeous scenery.
Make sure you're well-prepared for your climb up the 1,000 steps of Jacks Mountain by wearing sturdy and comfortable hiking boots. Bring plenty of water and snacks and by leash your pup if he's joining you.
Though the trail is rated as hard, it's also popular with hikers. In fact, back in the early part of the 20th century, workers who lived at the bottom of the mountain and worked at the top climbed those thousand steps daily.
If counting the steps as you progress inspires you, you're in luck. You'll come across a marker every 100 steps, so you can keep track of where you are in your journey.
Take a bit of a breather before heading back down the 1,000 steps. Though the journey down is usually easier than the climb up, it can still be a challenge when your legs are tired.
Have you hiked the Thousand Steps Trail in Pennsylvania? Do you have any advice for other hikers? Let us know in the comments! If you’re a fan of challenging hikes that lead to waterfalls, try the Falls Trail at Ricketts Glen State Park.
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