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Total Length: 30.5 mi (49.0 km) Hiking Time: 2.5—3.5 days Trailhead(s): North Terminus in Ansonia, at the base of Colton Point Rd there is a large gravel parking lot adjacent fenced forestry buildings. South Terminus is Rattlesnake Rock. There are several other access points on forestry roads. Winter maintenance along theses roads is minimal or non-existant, and the roads are utilized by snowmobiles and can become sheets of ice. Camping: Only primitive (tent) camping is allowed on the trail. Camping permits are free. Contact Tioga State Forest Office (570)-724-2868 for camping info, permits, etc. Water: Water is available along the trail at stream crossings. There is less water on the southern half of the trail in summer. All water must be purified in order to be considered safe to drink.
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Named “The Best Hike in Pennsylvania” by Outside Magazine, the West Rim Trail is a 30-mile orange blazed trail. Winding its way along the western rim of the Pennsylvania Grand Canyon, this trail features breath-taking vistas of the Pine Creek Gorge. |
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The West Rim Trail is a good trail for beginners and seasoned backpackers. There is a 1,000 ft climb at either terminus, but the trail is generally along the top of the plateau with less extreme elevation changes along the way. There are opportunities to shorten the trail and avoid the biggest hill climbs. Camping is abundant and there are water sources (streams) along the way. The most reliable year-round sources are found along the northern half. This trail features many excellent views of the Pennsylvania Grand Canyon. |
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The West Rim Trail Guidebook & Map is available from Pine Creek Outfitters for $11.95. The guidebook is a pocket-sized account of the trail’s features and its history. The waterproof color topographic map also shows vistas, water sources, campsites, & connector trails. |
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Pine Creek Outfitters offers SHUTTLE SERVICES for the West Rim Trail. We are only 1 mile northwest of the trailhead in Ansonia. You can get shuttled to the south end and start hiking back to the north end, or you can get your car taken down to Rattlesnake Rock and you can hike south from Ansonia. There are also drop-off points along West Rim Road that allow you to customize the length of your trip. Shuttle to South Terminus: $12/person ($40 minimum) West Rim Road Shuttle: $12/person ($45 minimum) Dogs: add $5 if you are bringing dogs Car shuttle to South Terminus: $40 |
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I leave the town with its hundred noises, Its clatter and whir of wheel and steam, For woodland quiet and silvery voices, With a camp of bark by a crystal stream.
- George Washington Sears (“Nessmuk”) |
