ExplorePAtrails.com is a remarkable web application that I recently discovered to help with finding hiking trails in Pennsylvania. I decided to search for the trails accessible by way of a short distance from the Pennsylvania Turnpike. The application performed well on our iMac but was slow when displaying the same trails on our iPad and Aspire NetBook.
On Saturday 10-DEC-2011, I drove to south central Pennsylvania to explore Caledonia State Park, Pine Grove Furnace State Park, and Cowan's Gap State Park. I was impressed with the ruggedness of the region. The peaks in the area are on mountains, not just high hills, some peaks reaching 2000 feet in elevation.
The highest peak in New Jersey (where I currently live) is only 1800 feet in elevation. I can hike 200 feet higher at Snowy Mountain in Pennsylvania for a better work out by traveling an hour longer than the time required to reach High Point State Park in New Jersey.
Pennsylvania features large tracts of their wilderness areas far better than New Jersey, where I currently live. Pennsylvania's proven commitment to outdoor activities is the primary reason why I prefer to hike and camp in my former state. Please note that I was born in Scranton and lived in a suburb outside of Philadelphia until I was 30, so I will admit a hint of favoritism.
In summary, Pennsylvania has a genuine interest with showcasing their natural resources. ExplorePAtrails.com is one of many avenues offered to attract outdoor enthusiasts.
About the Author
Review by Joe Mezick - an avid day hiker with over 6 years of footpath experience, averaging 3 hours on the trails per outing, frequently within the Delaware River Basin and adjacent regions.