PA AT Rocksylvania Loop (difficult)

Wear good shoes.

This hike will take in the Blue Mountain ridge around craggy Lehigh Gap. The gap was denuded of vegetation due to zinc processing during the early 20th century. Environmental reclamation has progressed since the 1980s, but the gap still contains long stretches of treeless and rocky terrain. Great for expansive views over the Lehigh Valley to the south and the Poconos to the north. Not so great on the feet though.

We will complete a 10 to 11 mile loop using the Appalachian Trail, South Trail, Charcoal and Bypass Trails on the south (west) side of the gap. These trails are very rocky and partially exposed. This will be a more difficult hike. We will gain around 1000 feet of elevation in around two miles, but the most difficult aspect of this hike will be the rocks. Wear appropriate footwear and bring some extra calories and plenty of water. There is a lot of open terrain as well, so a hat and sunscreen are also a good idea.

Parking will be at the Lehigh Gap Nature Center (8844 Paint Mill Rd, Slatington, PA 18080). We set off at 9am. Make sure you are on time to get ready to start at 9am. Once we start hiking I will not be checking my phone for anyone arriving late.

AllTrails map of a similar route we will take. Note that this is not the exact route we will use. I will modify this route. https://www.alltrails.com/explore/trail/us/pennsylvania/lehigh-furnace-gap-via-appalachian-trail

Hike will cancel from severe weather.