Few People Know This Charming Small Town In Pennsylvania Is The Halfway Point On The Appalachian Trail
By Beth Price-Williams|Published April 02, 2022
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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.
Every year more than three million adventurers explore parts of the Appalachian Trail, which travels from Springer Mountain, Georgia, to Katahdin, Maine. About 3,000 of those are thru-hikers, hiking with the intent to travel 2,190 miles, through all 14 states, to complete the trail. It’s an epic adventure and an impressive feat. This small town in Pennsylvania is the halfway point on the Appalachian Trail, and it’s an outdoor lover’s dream.
With a population that hovers around 140, the tiny town of Gardners is perhaps best known for Pine Grove Furnace State Park, a cozy park that spans just under 700 acres.
Pine Grove Furnace State Park is also where you’ll find the halfway point of the Appalachian Trail. A large sign marks the spot, letting thru-hikers know they’re halfway there – whether they’re traveling north or south.
The cozy park offers a full menu of activities, from hiking and biking to boating. Bring your beach gear during the summer season for a bit of sunbathing on one of the two sandy beaches.
Cross-country skiing, ice skating, and snowmobiling are all popular winter activities.
If a day simply isn’t enough, pitch a tent or reserve an RV parking spot. For a one-of-a-kind overnight adventure, reserve the Paymaster’s Cabin. The historic two-story home has been restored as a modern cabin, perfect for up to six guests.
Save time, too, for a stop at the Green Mountain General Store & Deli, where you can grab a meal or pick up groceries for your hiking or camping adventure.
Did you know Gardners is the halfway point on the Appalachian Trail? Let us know in the comments! If you’re a fan of small towns, you might want to plan a visit to the only real town in all of Pennsylvania – Bloomsburg.
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