wake early, walk far, and travel light
I was looking forward to introducing people to one of my favorite hiking spots when I lived in Pittsburgh. We had a great time and enjoyed all the different landscapes (pine forests! rhododendrons! boulder fields! ski slopes!) and the layers of crunchy ice on the trail.
Confusion quickly turned to glee and they processed and started deciding between the multitude of goodies we offered, which was really fun to see.
We had some fun rapids, but nothing above Class I. It was just about the perfect intro to packrafting.
Personally, I’m glad we did this stretch of trail, and I enjoyed it. It reminded me of the STS and the Donut Hole Trail, though I think the hiking was a little easier.
Before exiting the Buchanan State Forest, I signed the last trail register, pausing to reflect on how lucky we are to have the Mid State Trail. Thanks to DCUL for starting the trend and to Evan for getting me hooked.
