After crossing the Mason-Dixon line late yesterday afternoon, today was our first full day in Pennsylvania. I woke up to the sound of rushing water from Falls Creek just to my north. By the time I unzipped my tent at 7 AM, every hiker but one was already gone.

Trail Magic

There was a small climb out of the campsite, and before long, we were greeted with trail magic at Old Forge Park. A trail angel named Tycoon loaded me up with three bunless beef hot dogs, two bags of chips, and two Mountain Dews. He told me that thru-hikers are always starving and protein-deficient by this point so I should eat up. More than anything, I crave sugar these days. At home, I very rarely drink soda, but when someone offers it out here, I can’t resist.

Pennsylvania Rocks!

The day’s terrain was overall easy, and we only got a small taste of some Pennsylvania rocks. It was nothing worse than what we experienced in the southern states, so I know that what people are referring to when they say “Rocksylvania” must still be ahead. 

Caledonia State Park 

I decided to stop two miles shy of where I was camping for the night to eat my dinner. Caledonia State Park charges for tent sites, so it’s not ideal for hikers, but they have nice picnic tables and running water. I cooked my mac and cheese and washed my pot in the bathroom sink, which is much easier than using my water bottle. 

Resident Rattlesnake 

It was less than an hour later that I reached Quarry Gap Shelter, and was immediately warned by the shelter dwellers that there was a resident rattlesnake living at the entrance to the camp. At that time, he was coiled up and resting his rattle. He could’ve easily been missed and stepped on since he was right off one of the footpaths.

I pitched my tent far away so as not to disturb him. If I go to the bathroom in the middle of the night, I’ve vowed to use my headlamp to avoid a trip to the emergency room.

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