The best walks and hikes in Mifflin County

The Monsell, Lorence, Turkey, and Standing Stone Trail Loop offers a vigorous hiking experience through a scenic part of the Appalachian Range in Pennsylvania. This moderate 5.3-mile (8.6 km) route involves a significant climb of 951 feet (290 metres) over approximately 2 hours and 37 minutes, leading you through mature oak forests and up rocky switchbacks. The reward for your effort is the expansive Stone Valley Vista atop Stone Mountain, providing sweeping views of the surrounding hills and farmlands.

To tackle this challenging loop, plan to start near Greenwood Furnace State Park, where you can typically find trailhead access and parking. Given the technical and often rocky terrain, sturdy footwear and trekking poles are highly recommended for stability and comfort. While beautiful in any season, consider a fall visit to enjoy the vibrant autumn colors.

This loop is a testament to the dedicated work of the Standing Stone Trail Club, whose fine stonework has improved sections like the Turkey Trail, making this long-distance option possible. It provides a comprehensive taste of the region's Appalachian landscape and is part of the much larger 85-mile Standing Stone Trail, offering a significant physical challenge for those seeking advanced hiking routes.

Hobie's Trail invites you to a pleasant hike through deep wooded areas, where tall pines create a serene atmosphere. As you follow the route, you'll discover abundant views of Colyer Lake, a prominent landmark along the way. This moderate trail spans 4.9 miles (7.9 km) and features a gentle elevation gain of 170 feet (52 metres), typically taking about 2 hours and 2 minutes to complete.

When planning your visit, you'll find Hobie's Trail to be generally accessible with a well-groomed path. Parking at the trailhead is usually straightforward, making it easy to begin your adventure. While the path is mostly flat, be aware that certain sections can become muddy after rain, so we recommend wearing appropriate footwear to ensure a comfortable experience.

The trail's diverse scenery changes beautifully with the seasons, offering something new each time you visit. You'll also find benches strategically placed at various points, perfect for taking a moment to relax and soak in the surroundings. Hobie's Trail is a family and dog-friendly option, making it an excellent choice for a leisurely outing with loved ones.

The Swift Run Trail, combined with Kerb Gap and Thick Mountain Trail, offers a captivating moderate hike through the Snyder-Middleswarth Natural Area. This 4.4-mile (7.1 km) loop, with its 739 feet (225 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 2 hours and 10 minutes to complete. You'll journey from the tranquil banks of Swift Run, passing ancient hemlock trees and small waterfalls, to the higher elevations of Thick Mountain, where forests of pine, laurel, and rhododendron create a diverse landscape.

To plan your visit, head to the Snyder-Middleswarth Picnic Area, which serves as the primary trailhead and offers parking. Be prepared for some sections of the Swift Run Trail that can be wet or overgrown, particularly after heavy rains, so sturdy, waterproof hiking boots are a good idea. This loop is best enjoyed during the spring or fall when the weather is mild and the natural beauty of the Bald Eagle State Forest is at its peak.

This trail system is notable for its extensive stand of old-growth hemlock within the Snyder-Middleswarth Natural Area, giving parts of the Swift Run Trail a truly primeval feel. It's a special place that showcases the rich biodiversity of Snyder County, Pennsylvania, offering a peaceful escape into nature away from more crowded routes.

The Johnson Trail and Greenwood Spur offers a challenging yet rewarding hike through varied Pennsylvania woodlands. You'll navigate old charcoal roads and rocky terrain, passing through pleasant woods with large white pines and historic sites. The highlight is the climb towards the Broad Mountain & Greenwood Fire Tower, where you can imagine the views that once stretched across Stone and Jacks Mountain.

This 1.8-mile (2.9 km) route is rated moderate, but don't let the short distance fool you; it involves a substantial 1379 feet (420 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 1 hour and 15 minutes. The trail starts near Greenwood Furnace State Park, where you can find water and parking. An early start is recommended to tackle the steep sections in cooler conditions.

Part of the larger Mid State Trail system, the Greenwood Spur is known for its significant initial climb up Broad Mountain. While the Johnson Trail name can refer to various trails across the US, this specific segment in Huntingdon County is a distinct part of Pennsylvania's challenging trail network, offering a taste of the region's rugged beauty and historical logging past.

Embark on a unique adventure up the Shorb's Summit via Thousand Steps and Standing Stone Trail, a route that combines natural beauty with a fascinating industrial past. The trail's most distinctive feature is the 'Thousand Steps,' a series of over a thousand uneven sandstone steps that climb steeply through the forest. As you ascend, you'll pass remnants of old quarry operations, eventually reaching Shorb's Summit for panoramic views of the Juniata River valley and surrounding mountains. This trail offers a challenging and memorable experience for those ready for a workout.

This moderate 4.4-mile (7.1 km) hike involves a significant 1784 feet (544 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 2 hours and 28 minutes to complete. Due to the steep and irregular nature of the steps, trekking poles are highly recommended for stability and to ease pressure on your knees. Parking is available at the trailhead, but consider an early start to secure a spot, especially during peak seasons. This trail is best suited for active individuals looking for a strenuous climb with a big payoff.

The Thousand Steps were originally built in 1936 by quarry workers, providing a tangible link to the region's history of ganister mining. This historical significance, combined with the trail's challenging terrain and spectacular viewpoints, earned it the title of Pennsylvania's 2016 Trail of the Year. It's a segment of the larger 80-mile Standing Stone Trail, connecting you to a broader network of hiking opportunities in Huntingdon County.

The Stone Mountain Overlook trail in Rothrock State Forest is a fantastic, easy outing that delivers big on views for minimal effort. This 0.7-mile (1.1 km) hike, with just 17 feet (5 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 16 minutes to reach a stunning vantage point. You'll be treated to nearly 360-degree panoramic views, making it a perfect spot for a quick escape into nature, especially if you're keen on hawk watching or experiencing vibrant fall foliage.

Accessing the trailhead is generally straightforward, with parking available nearby. While it's an easy and quick hike, consider visiting during the autumn months to witness the spectacular colors that make this overlook truly shine. It's a great choice for families or anyone looking for a rewarding viewpoint without a long, strenuous climb.

This particular Stone Mountain Overlook is known for its accessibility and the expansive vistas it provides over the surrounding landscape of Huntingdon County. It stands out as a family-friendly hike, offering a peaceful natural experience and excellent opportunities for birdwatching, particularly raptors during their migratory periods.

Hike the difficult 19.4-mile Standing Stone Trail in Rothrock State Forest, featuring rocky ridgetops, dense forests, and panoramic views.

The Penns Creek Path offers a delightful and easy 2.8-mile (4.5 km) hike, tracing an old railroad bed through serene hardwood forests with minimal 49 feet (15 metres) of elevation gain. You'll spend about 1 hour and 9 minutes enjoying continuous views of Penns Creek, a popular spot for fly fishing, and the trail is especially beautiful when the autumn foliage is at its peak. This route provides a peaceful woodland experience, perfect for a relaxed stroll.

Planning your visit is straightforward, with amenities like pit toilets and drinking water available at Poe Paddy State Park campgrounds near the western trailhead. The trail is enjoyable year-round, but a visit in the fall promises vibrant colors. Remember to pack a flashlight if you intend to explore the Poe Paddy Tunnel, a notable landmark along the way, as it can be dark inside.

This path is a segment of the larger Mid-State Trail and is rich in railroad history, utilizing the former Lewisburg and Tyrone Railroad bed. Beyond the historical Poe Paddy Tunnel with its unique bat gate, you might spot various wildlife, including black bears, bobcats, or timber rattlesnakes, adding an element of natural discovery to your outing. It's a great choice for families and beginner hikers looking for a scenic and accessible adventure.

This easy 0.9-mile (1.5 km) section of the Standing Stone Trail offers a delightful, flat walk, perfect for a quick escape into nature. Unlike the longer, more strenuous parts of the trail, this segment provides a gentle experience, likely winding through an agricultural valley or along a historic railroad grade. It's a serene 29-minute journey with no elevation gain, making it an ideal choice for a relaxed outing or a family stroll.

Planning your visit to this easy route is straightforward. While specific parking details for this exact trailhead aren't provided, the Standing Stone Trail generally has accessible entry points. This short, flat hike is enjoyable in any season, though spring and autumn bring particularly pleasant weather and vibrant scenery. You won't need much in terms of gear, but a bottle of water is always a good idea.

The broader Standing Stone Trail is celebrated as the Pennsylvania Trail of the Year in 2016 and is known for its diverse landscapes, connecting ridgelines, valleys, and small towns. This particular segment offers a glimpse into the trail's quieter, more pastoral side, a stark contrast to the challenging "Thousand Steps" or the