Continuing to move northward, this 8.1-mile section of trail spans between PA 850 and Duncannon, PA. The hike started with sunny skies, temps in the low 40’s, and a light breeze. Toward the end of the hike, the clouds came in with threat of rain. Just as the hike ended, it started to rain.
The hike started with another crossing through a pasture before entering into the woods. Several day hikers and trail runners were encountered today. There is one shelter on this section of trail, which was not visited due to a few reports by other hikers that a homeless man is living at the shelter.
There are two views in this section: the first was 2.5 miles up the trail to a gas line that cuts across the AT. The second view was at Hawk Rock, which overlooks Duncannon and the Susquehanna River. After enjoying the view, it was time to descend for the last mile of the hike, down a steep 17% grade to a parking area in Duncannon.
Side Note: Approximately 3 miles into the hike, ‘Nuf Said tripped over a rock, and went head-long, face first, into the dirt. The outcome? A black eye and a scraped chin, but after two days, healing nicely. Seems one of those Pennsylvania rocks wanted to welcome us to ‘Rocksylvania’, saying, “Have a great trip”.
Be sure to visit the Pennsylvania Gallery!