Brandywine Creek State Park

9-10 miles
~1000' elevation
moderate pace

Starting a smidge earlier on this one as it's ~7 miles to the lunch spot. It will be a loop that at it's furthest will cross over to First State National Park.

We start at the Visitor Center where there are bathrooms (I think they'll be open, but...). If they are locked we proceed to another spot where there are bathrooms. If they are locked we proceed to another parking area where there are porta-pottys. If they have been removed we proceed to the trees.

We start by hiking down to the Brandywine Creek, then along the creek until we reach the decommissioned Doeskin Dam. From there we cross over the water on a bridge and proceed to climb to the top of a ridge on the east side of the park. We move along the ridge past a boulder field with some small glacial boulders. At the end of the ridge will be the border crossing to First State National Park. Hiking down the ridge we will find a feeder stream and follow that to another ascent. We take a loop that will follow up on the side slope of the stream.

Here we will decide on our lunch spot. If it is windy, we can choose to have lunch at the stream as it is sheltered. If not, there is a nice spot we can go to back at Brandywine Creek where there are picnic tables and bathrooms. After lunch, we hike along the creek back to the dam and then back up to the parking lot.

The trail isn't crazy tough but there are rocks and roots (and I assume leaves still), so footwear is at your discretion but if you use poles, I recommend bringing them. Also, bring water, food, and rain gear. If you need to contact me, my cell is 609-471-4119.