As we head into the coldest part of winter, most people probably are not thinking about hiking, but there is something about getting out in the woods during the colder months that really makes me happy.
Maybe it is the quietness of the woods when there is snow on the ground, making one feel like they are truly alone in this busy world. It might be the rush of the winter wind on the barren ridge tops that makes even the modest peaks of central Pennsylvania feel like summits of great height. Or, it just might be the crunch of the snow and the smell of the cool fresh air that makes me feel so alive. It is probably all these things and more that make me and many other like-minded people get out on the trails to explore during the winter months.
We are lucky here in central Pennsylvania, with a multitude of trails to explore on foot, on bike, on skis, or even on ATVs and snowmobiles, all year long. Even with all those trails, it is hard to know where to start, especially when you are new to the area and a beginner outdoor adventurer. I know how that feels.
When I first moved to the area 20 years ago (how has it been that long?) I was keen to get outside and explore, but I didn’t always know where to start or how to get there. It wasn’t until I got into trail running as a hobby that I really learned all that this area has to offer. I am still learning, but I love to share what I know with others so they can get out and explore for themselves.
The Shingletown Gap trails of Rothrock State Forest were one of the first hiking areas I learned about all those years ago. It’s a great place that is just minutes from State College.
The most popular trail at Shingletown Gap is the Lower Trail, and it is easy to see why. Wedged between the mountains, the trail gently follows the beautiful Roaring Run. Mountain laurel and rhododendron drape over portions of the trail and are especially beautiful when they bloom in early summer or when they are covered with snow after a winter storm.
The Lower Trail is perfect for a nice out-and-back hike that is not difficult to navigate. Beware, though: during late winter and into early spring, the trail can be very icy because of all the feet (both human and canine) that pack down the snow.
For those who are interested in a more physical challenge, there are trails that go up the sides of ridges that tower above the stream, including one of my favorites that takes hikers on a quick jaunt up the Mid-State Trail and its famous Roman Tower structure.
Thanks to an early storm, my favorite hiking companion (my dog, Peggy) and I were able to hike up to the tower in November with a blanket of snow on the ground. Hopefully, by the time this story comes out in January, there is a nice layer of powder out there (although I am sure some people who read this would prefer that isn’t the case).
To explore the Shingletown Gap area properly and safely, one of the first steps is to find a good map and learn how to read it. Local company Purple Lizard Maps makes a great Rothrock State Forest map that is easy to read and provides plenty of useful information such as scenic views and water sources.
The map includes the Shingletown Gap trail system that is partly in Rothrock and partly on land owned by the State College Borough Water Authority (as evidenced by the small reservoir at the trailhead). My copy is pretty old and could probably use an update, as new trails have been blazed since it was printed.
Parking at the Shingletown Gap area trailhead off Mountain Road can fill quickly on weekends, so it is best to get there early. Please be mindful of the no parking signs along the road. If the lot near the trailhead is full, an alternate parking area is available on Misty Hill Drive about a quarter mile down the road from the trailhead.
There are multiple ways to reach the Roman Tower, but I typically veer off the Lower Trail and head to the right once I enter the forest. After crossing a log bridge over Roaring Run, the blue marked trail leads hikers uphill following a small stream called Cruisers Run. After a roughly 300-foot climb, the trail crosses the Red-White Trail and mellows out. After another tenth of a mile, the blue blazed trail veers left to become the Deer Path, which climbs up the top of the ridge.
The going on Deer Path is easy at first, but eventually it gets into some very steep climbing as it makes it way up. Indeed, it is slow going that last quarter of a mile, up and over small boulders. During a winter day, with the leaves off the trees, it is nice to take a little break and turn around to look back toward the valley below.
After hitting the ridgeline, hikers will find themselves on the Mid-State Trail. The orange blazed trail cuts across the state for 327 miles from Maryland to New York. The trail got its start in 1969 by the Penn State Outing Club and Hiking Club faculty adviser Thomas Thwaites, an avid outdoorsman and Penn State physics professor. The Outing Club is also responsible for constructing the Roman Tower, which is the next destination.
To get to the Roman Tower from this intersection is merely a half-mile trek east on the Mid-State, but the short distance shows exactly what the long-distance trail is known for in central and southern Pennsylvania—rocky ridge-top hiking. Be careful while navigating the rocks, but enjoy views on both sides as you go.
As Peggy and I hiked along the ridge, we could see the sun begin to fall in the sky behind us. The light was glorious along the trees. Just before we hit the Roman Tower, we ran into a man named Dakota who had found a spot off the trail to start a fire and watch the sunset. He offered me a cup of coffee to warm up.
Dakota had come up from Huntingdon County to hike part of the Mid-State. He started near Tussey Mountain and planned to head back in the dark after watching the sunset. Like me, he was glad to be out on a beautiful day and enjoying some solitude in the woods. It was nice to make a trail friend.
Peggy and I gave Dakota peace to watch the sunset alone and trekked on the short distance to the Roman Tower. A sign on the trail directs hikers to the rocky structure that is a fun place to visit and enjoy lunch on warmer days. Pine trees that have grown high down below obscure most of the view, but you can still see some of State College and Mount Nittany in the distance.
We didn’t linger long because of the approaching darkness and because I knew the trail down is no piece of cake. The blue-marked Downer Trail is steep. Even in good conditions it is slow going. In winter with snow and ice, traction devices or boots with good tread are a must, unless sliding down the trail on your backside sounds like a fun time.
The trail eventually calms down near the Red-White Trail before making its way back down to Roaring Run. Be careful as you rock hop across the stream. Then it is a quick hike on the Lower Trail back to the trailhead.
In all, this loop is roughly 2.5 miles, but within the modest distance is around 800 feet of elevation gain. If you are new to hiking, it would be best to build up to this distance and elevation slowly.
With all the trails in Rothrock, there are many routes to take and trails to explore. Just make sure you have a good map and proper gear before you head on out. Happy trails! T&G
Vincent Corso loves exploring the outdoors in central Pennsylvania and beyond.
Winter hiking tips
- Wear layers: Always be prepared for the conditions.
- Be seen: Be mindful of hunting seasons and wear orange.
- Have a light source: Sunset comes quickly in winter.
- Wear proper footwear: Ice can build up fast on trails near water and on well-traveled trails. Microspikes or other traction devices can prevent falls and injuries.
- Hike with a friend: Especially if you are new to winter hiking or hiking in a new location.
- Bring a map: And know how to read it.
- Communicate: Tell people where you are going and how long you plan to be out.
- Drink water: It is easy to forget in the cold, but during long hikes bodies still need to stay hydrated.
- Follow blazes. Trails can be difficult to navigate with snow on the ground, so be mindful of trail markers on trees and rocks.
- Charge your phone: Make sure you have enough battery in case of an emergency.
