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July Hike To Rescue Gear at Clear Creek State Forest: Kennerdell Tract
On July 31, 2025, I had to return to Clear Creek State Forest: Kennerdell Tract for a quick wet hike to retrieve a piece of gear I had left the day before. Just when I thought my track record for this area couldn’t get any worse, I had to rescue a piece of gear I left at my campsite. To make this mistake even more memorable, rain was in the…
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July Backpacking in Clear Creek State Forest: Kennerdell Tract
On July 29-30, 2025, I backpacked in Clear Creek State Forest: Kennerdell Tract. Unlike my previous attempt, this was a much more enjoyable trip.
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July Backpacking Turned Hike at Clear Creek State Forest: Kennerdell
On July 23, 2025, I attempted to backpack on the Kennerdell Tract of Clear Creek State Forest. Instead of an overnight camping trip, I took my gear for a long walk. While scenic and enjoyable, it did not turn out as planned.
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July Backpacking in Bear Run Nature Reserve
My first visit to Bear Run Nature Reserve on July 6-7, 2025 was a resounding success. Excellent trail conditions, gorgeous scenery, and free spacious campsites made this backpacking trip a success.
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June Scenic Views at Cherry Springs State Park
On June 28, 2025, I visited Cherry Springs State Park for some late-night stargazing with my wife. The weather didn’t fully cooperate, but we did get some breathtaking glimpses of both the surrounding areas and heavens.
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June hike at Ole Bull State Park, PA
On June 28th, 2025, my wife and I enjoyed a short hike at Ole Bull State Park in Pennsylvania. It was a gorgeous day to hike in a state park we had not yet visited.
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Quick June Camp and Hike in Raccoon Creek State Park, PA
On June 11-12, 2025, I visited Raccoon Creek State Park in Pennsylvania for a quick solo overnight camp. In the morning, I hiked the Mineral Springs Loop and was treated to some beautiful views before heading home.
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May Backpacking in Moshannon State Forest
On Sunday, May 18-19, 2025, I hiked the Coupler Run Loop trail in the Moshannon State Forest, PA, and hammock camped at approximately the midpoint. This was my second backpacking trip, and I tried to push myself to cover more distance. However, this was a delightful experience, marred only by a few mistakes.
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April Backpacking on the Pine Run Loop trail
On April 24-25, 2025, I hiked the Pine Run Loop in Clear Creek State Forest, PA, and hammock camped at approximately the midpoint. This was my first actual backpacking trip, and despite having to hike out in the rain, it was one of the best outdoor experiences I’ve had.
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March hike on Hell’s Hollow Trail
On March 29th, 2025, my wife and I hiked the Hell’s Hollow trail in McConnells Mill State Park, PA. It was an easy hike with overcast, mild weather, but the sights were beautiful and the waterfall impressive.
Trip Reports
These are step-by-step retellings of my trips with photos, lessons learned, and noteable gear used.
