Michaux State Forest- Pole Steeple and Sunset Rocks- long hike

Snapshot:
Intensity: Difficult due to distance and moderate + pace
Length: 14.5 miles
Duration: approximately 6-7 hours
Pace: 3.2 mph plus
Elevation: 2,100 feet
Description:
Another new to me winter adventure hike! This time we head to Michaux State Forest. Upon researching this massive park that expands over 85,000 acres, I came across two sections to explore first (meaning I am sure there will be more hikes scheduled here). We will be doing a figure eight pattern that will encompass the Pole Steeple and Sunset Rocks.
The Pole Steeple trail is about 3/4 mile long and leads to a quartzite rock outcropping overlooking the entire park. Once we depart the summit, we will head across the Pine Grove Furnace Park making our way to a section of the AT. This will lead us to a trail in which we will cut over to experience sunset rocks which has steep rock scrambles and some more great views.

This will be a rather long hike without any overwhelming climbs. As with any hike that is new to me, I ask that you come with a little patience as I will have to consult with Alltrails throughout to ensure we are on the planned route. Sounds like a really cool park to visit.....so let's go!

GEAR REQUIRED:
1- Proper footwear- hiking boots or trail runners for hikes in woods; sneakers ok for urban hikes.
2- Appropriate clothing for conditions: layers, wind and rain protection based upon forecast. Extra socks for wet weather hikes or hikes with stream crossings.
3- WATER or other source of hydration; food/snacks as needed and suggested for hikes over 8 miles
4- Electrolytes for longer hikes
5- Hiking poles and backpacks as needed.
6- Sunscreen, bug spray and bear spray as desired
7- Headlamps for night hike
8- Must pack micro spikes on all weekend hikes December through March. Ice and snow always possible.

WEATHER: All winter hikes are dependent upon safe travel conditions to and from the hiking area. We will hike in existing snow and very light rain. Heavier, cold rain will cancel
PARKING AND MEETING LOCATION: Pine Grove Iron Works Trailhead parking. See Meetup PIN

Post Hike Celebration: TBD

GUEST and ATTENDANCE POLICY: All attendees must be members of Outdoor Adventure Friends. This is for communication purposes to ensure that those in attendance understand exactly what they are signing up for. Please be courteous and change your rsvp in a timely fashion if you can no longer attend an event. Repeated no shows or a history of signing up and dropping off excessively when there is a waitlist will exclude you from being moved off of future waitlists and special events
PLEASE NOTE: I cannot respond to calls, texts, emails, messages on meetup, or comments on the event page once we start hiking. Please plan accordingly.
NOTICE: Meetup organizers are not professionally trained. By attending an event you are agreeing that YOU ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR YOUR OWN SAFETY AT ALL TIMES. No member of the group EXCEPT YOURSELF can be held responsible for any damages, accidents, or liabilities incurred while hiking with us.