Pennsylvania Mid State Trail - Poe Paddy to RB winter

This is part two in a series of posts about Pennsylvania's Mid State Trail (MST). For a considerable distance in the middle of the state the MST travels through the Rothrock and Bald Eagle state forests passing through four state parks. Last June I hiked through a 24 mile remote and beautiful section of the MST in the Bald Eagle state forest between Poe Paddy and RB Winter state parks. This hike starts from the Poe Paddy state park on the bans of Penns creek, a popular creek with fisherman.

The park itself is small nestled in remote mountains with paved road into the park. After starting the hike you will cross Penns creek and pass through an old railroad tunnel.

From here the MST follows the Penn Creek bike path for several miles roughly paralleling Penns Creek. The trail then takes a brief detour over a hill before following Cherry Run Road for a mile. At this point the MST begins to climb before crossing Libby Run where one can find camping. This is where we spent the night. Next the MST climbs Thick mountain to a view of Penns Valley. After walking the ridge for a ways the trail descends steeply to Woodward gap road. Crossing the road the MST is an easy walk realatively flat walk for the next several miles to PA 45. The MST crosses PA 45 at Hairy John's picnic area. Here you will find picnic tables and restrooms.

Now the hike will become harder as the MST climbs over several mountains. First you are treated to a climb of Winkelbleck mountain. On the way up you will be treated to a nice view.

After descending Winkelbleck mountain the MST continues the roller coaster ride as it climbs over Buffalo mountain. Much of the forest here is covered thick mountain laurel. When it is blooming in June it is a beautiful sight.

At the top of Buffalo mountain is a small campsite. From here you descend to Pine Creek (not to be confused with the big Pine Creek associated with the Pine Creek Gorge) where the MST borders the Hook natural area. There is an excellent campsite at this spot and is a good place to call it a day. The MST treats you to another climb at this point to the top of Shriner Mountain, eventually reaching Stover gap road. After a short road walk, it a flat, but rocky 5 mile walk to RB Winter state park.