Introduction
Recently, we embarked on our first overnight backpacking trip on the Allegheny Front Trail (AFT). We chose this trail because it’s close to home, offers moderate difficulty, and provides flexible route options. Our goal was to test our gear, assess our capabilities, and enjoy the scenery and workout.
About the Allegheny Front Trail
The AFT is relatively new, built around 1995, and is located in the Moshannon State Forest, which encircles Black Moshannon State Park. The forest has a rich history: it was densely logged from 1850 to 1920, almost becoming barren. Reforestation efforts during the New Deal era in the 1930s helped restore the forest, which has since grown into a mature ecosystem.
Preparation
To prepare for our trip, we researched various trails mentioned on Reddit and other sources. We considered options like the Black Forest Trail, Logger’s Trail, and Loyalsock Trail, but ultimately chose the AFT for its moderate difficulty and flexibility (reddit post 1, post 2).
Once we decided on the AFT, I spent most of my time gathering detailed trail information and creating a comprehensive map. The map included all trail information, alternative secondary routes, campsite locations, and parking areas. This allowed us to plan our trip effectively by changing the starting and ending points and using alternative trails.
Trail Map
For gear, I already had most of the necessary backcountry camping equipment. I only needed to purchase a few items, totaling less than $100. The most important new items were a bear spray and a water filter. I used a comprehensive gear list generated by a LLM, which helped me determine what to pack, what to buy, and what to find around the house. This list also helped me evaluate which items were useful and which were not after the trip.
The Trip Experience
Data
- Elevation: 250 m (750 ft) per day
- Length: 10 mi (day 1), 7 mi (day 2)
- Pace: 20 min/km (30 min/mi or 2 mi/hour)
On Saturday 6/21 at 11 a.m., we set out from the trailhead. The scenery was beautiful right from the start, with ferns everywhere and a few trees standing in between. We soon encountered small streams, which made pleasant sounds, and a sea of mountain laurels. We logged our information in a logbook mailbox and continued along Rock Run and Hall Run, which eventually led us to the origin of Benner Run.
We followed Benner Run downstream, enjoying the increasingly beautiful sounds of the water. The foliage changed to deciduous forest, and we passed through several rhododendron tunnels. Around 5 p.m., we found a nice campsite by Benner Run, but it was occupied. We moved downstream to the next campsite, which turned out to be even more beautiful. It was at the confluence of Benner Run and Black Moshannon Creek, well-equipped with a fireplace and benches.
That night, we made dinner, made fire, set up a bear bag, and slept in our tent. The sound of the creek and the fireflies made for a memorable experience. However, I had some trouble sleeping, possibly due to being overly tired. Eventually, I fell asleep, but the night was filled with the sounds of birds and fireflies blinking in sync.
The next day, we woke up around 6:30 a.m., made some hot coffee and instant noodles, and repacked our bags. We continued the loop, following Black Moshannon Creek upstream along the Shingle Mill Trail. The trail was beautiful but very wet and muddy due to recent rains. We decided to take a shorter route on Highway 504 (Rattlesnake Pike), but the road conditions were challenging, hot and our dog, Sam, became weak.
Fortunately, a kind stranger offered us a ride, and we made it back to our car. This experience taught us the importance of flexibility and the kindness of strangers.
Lessons and Takeaways
We learned a lot from this trip. Here are some key takeaways:
- Dog’s Limitations: Our Sam is getting old and may not be suitable for long hikes. We need to consider leaving him home on future trips.
- Pace and Distance: We averaged 2 miles per hour, which can be used to estimate future hike times. We also learned that 10 miles per day is a good limit for us.
- Weather Condition: The forest can be a lot cooler than forecasted but 90 F in weather report probably means no hike that day.
- Backpacking Techniques: We learned a useful technique for hanging our backpack from a tree using a single cord and stick.
- Wet Conditions: Our shoes and socks can get very wet in certain conditions, which feel terrible walking in.
- Knee Pain: We experienced right-side knee pain after 3-4 hours of hiking. A compression strap may help alleviate this issue.
- Fuel and Stove: Isopropyl alcohol (e.g., red HEET antifreeze removal) is not a good substitute for proper alcohol fuel. We’ll stick to using denatured alcohol or yellow HEET instead.
- Trail Changes: Trails can change due to weather, fallen trees, or other factors. It’s essential to be prepared for these changes.
- Energy Consumption: Hiking consumes a lot of energy, and we need to bring more food to replenish our energy stores.
- Appetite and Hunger: Our appetite changes during hikes, and we need to be mindful of our body’s needs.
- Highway Usage: Using highways is not a good idea unless absolutely necessary, as it’s not safe nor pleasant.
- Backpack Weight: Our 14kg backpack feels heavier than expected. We plan to test other bags to find a more comfortable option.
- Insect Repellent and Sunscreen: We liked the new Picaridin insect repellent we used, and we’ll consider bringing sunscreen on future hikes.
- Food and Snacks: Instant noodles and spam work well as backpacking food, and we don’t need to do dishes.
- Camp Chair can be a useful like Crocs camp shoes. This time we use existing benches. Cannot imagine not having them.
- Take more pictures: They can be fun to revisit after a few years.
Conclusion
Overall, our trip on the Allegheny Front Trail was a mix of beautiful scenery, challenging conditions, and unexpected events. We learned a lot about backpacking, safety, and teamwork, and we’re eager to apply these lessons to future hikes. We’re already planning our next adventure.
Happy trails!