Michaux State Forest: Pole Steeple and Sunset Rocks -14ish miles

Snapshot:
Intensity: Difficult due to distance and moderate + pace
Length: 14.5 miles (ish.....always ish...lol)
Duration: approximately 6-7 hours
Pace: 3.2 "ish" mph
Elevation: 2,100 feet

Description:
Heading back to Michaux State Forest since last years hike here was enjoyable, Michaux State Forest is a large, 85,000-acre forest in central Pennsylvania, known as the "cradle of forestry" for being the site of the first forestry school. Located in the South Mountain area, it features diverse forests of oak, maple, and pine, with numerous hiking trails. The forest is characterized by its rugged, wooded landscape and rich history, with remnants of its past in the iron industry, indigenous peoples, and as a former World War II prisoner of war camp.

We will be doing two lollipops (parking in the middle in case of any bailouts) that will encompass the Pole Steeple and Sunset Rocks.
The Pole Steeple trail 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 is also where we will stop for a quick snack break.
Note: last year offered some fun surprises such as trails that were not marked and hard to find. So be prepared for a little exploration in these areas. It was fun!!!

GEAR REQUIRED:
1- Proper footwear- hiking boots or trail runners. Proper clothing for conditions: layers, wind and rain protection based upon forecast.
2- WATER or other source of hydration; food/snacks as needed and suggested for hikes over 8 miles
3- Electrolytes for longer hikes
4- Hiking poles and backpacks as needed.
6- Sunscreen, bug spray and bear spray as desired
7- Headlamps and micro spikes for winter hikes

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: Always a possibility....lol

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.