The Iconic Hiking Trail In Pennsylvania Is One Of The Coolest Outdoor Adventures You’ll Ever Take
By Beth Price-Williams|Published January 11, 2024
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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.
With around 650 trails, Pennsylvania makes exploring oh-so-easy and fun. From local trails that meander through urban areas to paths that span dozens of miles, there’s a hike for everyone, including those who want to experience a piece of the famed Appalachian Trail. Slip on a pair of hiking boots, and journey along this hiking trail in Fayetteville, Pennsylvania.
Perhaps the most epic hiking trail on the East Coast, the Appalachian Trail beckons hikers in search of a one-of-a-kind adventure. The famous 2,190-mile trail spans from Maine to Georgia.
Carve out at least 2.5 hours for your hike, and be prepared to run into other hikers. Because it's so popular with both through-hikers and day-hikers, the trail can get extremely busy.
While that long hike isn't for all of us, we can still experience part of it without traveling too far from home. The Hosack Run Loop Trail is one of those trails that traverses the AT.
Pennsylvania has several trails that travel along the Appalachian Trail.
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Tallying just 5.4 miles, the scenic loop trail scores a moderate rating, and there are a few good reasons - uphill climbs and rocky terrain - for that.
The trail is dog-friendly as long as your pup stays on a leash. Be sure to clean up after him, too.
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A well-marked trail, Hosack Run Loop promises an abundance of natural beauty, no matter when you hike. Spring and summer mean strolling past rhododendrons while the fall offers stunning autumn colors.
Considered one of the best shelters along the AT, the Quarry Gap Shelter features picnic tables and a swing, an idyllic place to stop before continuing your adventure.
Have you followed this hiking trail in Fayetteville, Pennsylvania? What did you think? Any advice for those who plan to hike it? Let us know in the comments! Did you know the tiny town of Gardners, Pennsylvania, marks the halfway point on the Appalachian Trail? It’s worth a visit!
