Standing Stone Trail TR- Blooms, views, and rocks

“Hiked from Greenwood Furnace State Park south to 1000 Steps and US 22.

This was an excellent trip and trail. We began Saturday morning under misty skies as we ascended the rocky ridge of Stone Mountain. The trail tunneled through beautiful hemlock forests with many views, which were mostly clouded over. Thankfully the rocks weren't slippery, and the bugs were never a problem.

We had lunch at Hawk Watch and descended from Stone Mountain to the valley. The clouds began to part to reveal sunny, humid skies. We entered the incredible Rocky Ridge Natural Area and made our way through the impressive rock formations. Many wildflowers were in bloom, particularly the dogwoods, which were everywhere.

We reached camp at 2:30 at a stream near Frew Rd. We could've gone further, but decided not to since the game lands were next, where camping is not allowed. We relaxed at camp and I hiked up to Hunter's Rock where there were climbers and more incredible formations, plus some nice views. The SST is being re-routed along this beautiful ridge to Hunter's Rock, when completed it will be a very beautiful trail. We spoke to a trail maintainer who told us about the re-route.

The skies clouded over and our plans for a campfire were extinguished when strong thunderstorms and rain moved through, so we all went to our tents.

The next morning was sunny as we hiked across many streams and springs gushing off of the mountain. We passed sinkholes and an awesome little valley where all these little streams converged under imposing rock outcrops. Next was an extensive stretch of moss-covered trail. The trail then follows a series of grassy forest roads and then reaches an area with some logging, from here to PA 655 the trail isn't well established, but blazed sufficiently well as it explores open hardwood forest.

We took a break at PA 655. Next was the long, hard ascent of Jacks Mountain, including "The Hump", a very steep part. We reached the ridge and enjoyed the view at Shorb's Summit. The trail descends steeply through a hemlock forest and reaches the phenomenal Clark's Vista, offering breathtaking views. Next was a series of long switchbacks, remnants of narrow gauge railroads to the top of the 1000 Steps and the Dinky House, with even more views. We passed a seasonal waterfall and made our way down the steps to the cars at US 22.

Great trip, great trail, and great company. This is a must-do trail that offers a lot of scenery, forest types, rock formations, sinkholes, tons of views, and history.

Pics:

http://outdoors.webshots.com/album/563309624uxJgaM?vhost=outdoors


Trail website:

http://www.hike-sst.org/”

“Nice report and pictures. It looks like the same section of trail we hiked a few years ago.”

“It is, hard to get tired of that section. The blooming trees and flowers made it a really nice hike.”

“I thought some things in the pics looked familiar. That is a nice section of trail for views.”

“Great photos. I love the Z tree.”

“Good report and lovely pics as always. Thanks!”

“Glad you enjoyed them. You need to get on this trail. Rocky Ridge is a favorite, I loved that part.

Clark's Vista is breathtaking- the winding river, long, green ridges, and deep hollows.”

“I will. It's on the "possible" list as a thru-hike for early this fall.

Thanks for the teaser. ;)”

“Thanks for the teaser. ;)”
spindlette
11:16:37 AM
5/05/08

Yeah, look who's talkin'.
>8^b”

“Thanks for sharing!!!!!”

“Hey MarkO... };-p”

“A thru hike? I might join you, if you'll have me. I've hiked much of it, but not all of it.”

“I'd like the company. :)

I was thinking about mid-Oct. The full moon is on the 14th and Columbus Day is just before that, so then might be good. Maybe catch some fall color...”

“Really nice pics, looks like a great hike!”