Jenny Jump State Forest

~8 miles
1000'+ elevation
moderate pace

This is an easy to moderate hike in Jenny Jump State Forest. We meet at the southern parking area off Shades of Death Rd. where there is a port-a-potty. Then we will take Ghost Lake Trail past the aptly named Ghost Lake. We begin a moderate climb with a bit of steepness at the end. After making a left turn onto Summit Trail we pass over Jenny Jump Mountain (no view) to a series of outlooks with great views. After passing them we descend a bit down and pickup Swamp Trail. There are campsites nearby with restrooms but I can't promise they will be open this time of year.

Following Swamp Trail, we loop around to a steep but not terribly long ascent back to the Summit Trail crossing over to Spring Trail. After a steep descent, this trail loops around back to the other side of the Summit Trail which we take in reverse direction past all the outlooks. Then head back to the parking lot passing Jenny Jump Mountain and Ghost Lake.

Depending on our pace and timing lunch will either be on the first pass of the outlooks or the crossover (we'll pick the closest outlook), so we'll play it by ear.

After we get back to the parking lot, there is an optional add on to visit Fairy Cave. We'll drive to the northern lot as the road has no good shoulder to walk on and the cars drive too fast. It is not a long hike to the cave, ~1/2 mile round trip, but the trail is rough, overgrown, and rocky so we'll take our time.

The trail is rocky so sturdy boots are recommended. Bring water, food, poles if you want, and rain gear. If you need to contact me my cell is 609-471-4119.