On July 10th, the Rothrock Trail Alliance (RTA) welcomed community members, outdoor recreation enthusiasts, PA DCNR officials, and project supporters to the grand opening of the first phase of an ambitious trail system expansion in Rothrock State Forest. This event marked a significant milestone for trail users, representing years of vision, dedication, and unwavering support.

Building trails in the Rothrock State Forest is known to present challenging conditions at times. For anyone that has done any trail building by hand in Rothrock, it almost defies reason that moving one rock from the trail instantly reveals dozens more. Rocks on rocks, one pile after another, linked by scant bits of loamy soil filling the gaps between rhododendron and mountain laurel roots. It’s not an easy task, but fortunately, Appalachian Dirt is up for the challenge and working some rock magic on Phase 2.

It may be slow going at times, but the crews are currently completing approximately 210 feet per day and passing the periodic inspections by Applied Trails Research with flying colors. The rock work is extensive, advanced-level Tetris for adults, but the reward will be a world-class trail experience.

One of the goals of expanding the trail network is to introduce new users to the outdoors that so many of us already enjoy. In doing so, we figured a reminder for all on proper trail user etiquette never hurts. If you invite an inexperienced friend onto the trails, be sure to share these basic guidelines for responsible trail use.

MUSSER GAP TRAILHEAD - See you on the trails!