DISTANCE (round-trip) | DIFFICULTY | TIME | ALTERNATIVE TO | SOLITUDE |
|---|---|---|---|---|
50 mi (80km) | 3-4 days | The Great Range Trail |
A Walk Through American War Country
Pennsylvania has some of the most classic landscape in the US. Its history is rich, the scenery is quaint, and this trail won’t push you past your limits as you hike.
With only aroun 14,000′ of total elevation change the trail is considered by most to be relatively flat. You’ll head through rural hamlets and rolling PA mountains as you walk the lush landscape west of the Appalachains.
While the trailhead on both the east and west side of the trail can be high traffic areas, most of the central trail wanders through and around private land. You’re pretty unlikely to be pressed hard by day visitors or throng of thru-hikers in the spring.
At 140 miles this is a 1 – 2 week trail for most hikers depending on your daily speed.
When to Go
This trail is a viable option all year around. The moderate elevation means that even in all but the coldest weeks of the year it’s a do-able hike for most. Like many trails in the Eastern United States, expect high traffic spikes April and May.
Getting To The Horse-Shoe Trail
Most hikers choose to hike from east to west on this trail which means starting just outside of Philly. Head to the Valley Forge National Historical Park by Uber, car, or shuttle and then head west!
The trail terminus can be found on Stony Mountain where it marries the Appalachian Trail passing thru the region. Shuttles are healthily available all along the Appalachian Trail.
Know Before You Go
For More Information
Trail posts for the Horse-Shoe Trail.
Harrisburg, PA the nearest major town.
Gear Recommendations for This Trail
Stay light and fast and you can easily complete this trail in a week or less. To achieve that try some of these gear tips:
