I agree with you on this trail. It could be a great trail with a little more love and care. From the videos I watched before I did it I think the ones that did it in spring before any foliage, underbrush or my friend stinging nettle was there like it a lot better. Blow downs aside of course. Great video!
Really enjoyed this hike. It helps to see the whole process of your journey. Thanks for not editing out the small struggles of locating blazes and falling over logs. That was a real day backpacking and we have all experienced similar issues.
Never a failure always learning. There’s been many trails I tried that were not maintained and unable to trek through. I love how honest and real this video is, not every trip is gonna go the way you planned. ❤
Did this trail in March and only did 10 miles a day. Was pretty with moss and clear streams but was definitely hard. At the end told my friend I don't want to do this when it's grown and he agreed. After watching this I'm glad we didn't wait till late spring or summer
Some things about the CKT. My son and I (ages 63 & 33) did the whole length in 3 days (2 nights) in June of 2019. Pros - Secluded, you probably will not see any other hikers for the entire time. In June, the blooming Mountain Laurel was the best we've ever seen anywhere. Plenty of water for camping (however, it did rain the entire 3 days we were out). Wildlife everywhere (deer, bears, bobcats, turkeys) And, there is a wonderful guide book available that tells you everything you need to know plus a lot of interesting facts. Cons - No trail maintenance, blow downs are everywhere. At times we only knew we were on the trail because of following blazes. Stingy nettles plenteous (must have long pants). Sides of mountains are hard on ankles as Frozen noted. And finally, do not hike solo in warm weather. We saw way too many rattle snakes. How we did not get bitten, we don't know. With the rain we couldn't hear them rattling. We stepped right beside them - I guess they were gentlemen and just let us pass. Conclusion - you will never see us on this trail again.
Really enjoyed This hike. Loved that you didn't forget the small struggles of locating blazes and falling over logs looked like a real handful for you to pack for this trip and find Camping spots.
Some of the best advice I ever got out on the trail was to stop and look back if there were no blazes ahead. Your search for a blaze at 14 minutes reminded me of that helpful hint. Thanks for another great video. I'm glad the iron got you up and out again.
Don’t blame ya for not wanting to keep going on that. Doesn’t look like much of trail. You didn’t fail. You just wanted a trail that would give ya more of what you wanted/needed at that time. 👍
When you get the time check out the Allegheny Trail in West Virginia. 300+ miles on the Eastern side of the state. Pa. Line near Bruceton Mills WV. to the Appalachian Trail near Pearisburg Va.
Thanks Frozen 👊 appreciate you, unfortunate the trail isn't in better care. Main thing is , you got outside., got a good nights rest, that's a win 👍Always great to hear from you my friend, stay safe and take care 👊 ✌️
My last like 4 attempts at an overnight/several nights overnight have ended in failure. Hate to say it but its reassuring to see someone else have similar issues.
I just got back from this trail last weekend. I did the east loop too, but counter-clockwise (opposite direction as you), so I finished by going up that first descent-it felt like it would never end, and it just got steeper. I considered bailing at every single road crossing after the section where the trail disappears, so I don't blame you at all for making that call. After the mile or so on that hillside with no trail at all it's not so terrible, but there are some spots where you're neck deep in thick rhododendrons, a very wet marshy bog right near the parking lot, and a few more of those very steep climbs straight up a hill when you take it clockwise! Most of the climbs in the ccw direction seemed more gradual. A few nice little camping spots by the stream though. It was a good trip but very rough! Autumn is a beautiful time of year to do it, I would not even consider this trail in the summer.
I totally agree the Chuck Keiper Trail is not a good trail at all. I don’t recommend it. It just feels like bushwhacking! Some areas are pretty nice for sure but there are better trails that are worth your precious time off. Love your channel Frozen, been watching for years. Sorry the hike didn’t work out. Looking forward to when you tackle the PCT!
I did a section of this trail on the west loop, along Yost Run, in July and it was a beast. Keeping my footing was tough, there were tons of blowdowns... it was a fun challenge, in a way, but it was ROUGH. You probably made the right call in not trying to do the whole trail. Let's just say Day 3 wouldn't have been a cakewalk. And as far as bailing out, well, guess what? I did it, too, I don't blame you. I decided against camping and night-hiked back to my car. And yeah, there are no failed outings; there are just outings, and they're all valuable.
Not a failed trip at all! You got to get outside and get a great night of sleep in your tent! I call that a win 🤘🏼 had a lot of fun watching this one man 😎
You're one of my favs to watch- so genuine, and a gentleman! This was a grand adventure! Congrats on the babe sleeping through the night- bliss! You know this was a great learning experience- I wouldn't know what it was like to encounter this scenario and how to make a good decision. The fall scenery is so lovely. I hope you get to do more hikes- family first! You can hike till your 63 like me!
Same thing happened to me in the Adirondacks last year. Fun, ain't it, when we stumble on an abandoned or neglected trail and decide to power through. Hardly a failed trip, though.
I was just researching this trail today!! I'm so glad I happened to catch your video, Frozen. Can't win them all but you seemed to make lemonade from the lemon of a trail. Happy Trails 👣
good to be out on the trail with you... Rough hiking / route finding is fun but not as much when it is causing too many delays and messing with your schedule. Nice job changing your plan, seems like it made for a more enjoyable trip, better to not stress about making miles when it is that rough. looks like it worked out for the best, even the mouse gave you a break/ hate it when they try to invade your stuff// great trip thanks for taking us along
A friend and I did the east loop back in September and yeah that Biggs Hollow section is nasty. Alot of deadfall, rocks, stinging nettle, miserable hiking, and alot of swearing on our part. Haha
My wife and I backpacked both loops and found it to be wonderfully secluded and challenging. It is real hiking. Camping spots were hard to come by from my recollection.
@@FrozensAdventures We did the East Loop in July and West Loop in September of 2018. I do recall some blowdowns which made the trail difficult to follow at times. The side hill walking was strenuous in certain hollows too. If we used a hammock finding camping spots would not be as challenging but we use a tent so level spots near water was not a easy to come by.
We lucked out with dry weather for hiking, but made for long carries between water sources. Brother and BIL were relying on the maps for water sources, which were mostly dry that year. (2018) We started clockwise from the check-in station. We had one stretch of @16 miles between water. I Camaled up at the first stream we hit and they were giving me a ration for carrying the weight, but didn’t have much to say when I was only one with water. They were banking on water as is normal in PA. Had another dry stretch @12-13 miles, towards the end until we hit a picnic area along a highway that had a pump. Last night camped by a stream with @3-4miles to finish. My Texas mentality helped, “when you find water fill all containers”. Looking forward to doing the Guadalupe Mountains, but reliable water is sparse there. They recommend carry of two gallons. Have to trim gear down to still stay around 35# probably 3-5 day hike, and probably sleep under a Dyneema fly, have to do more research about trees for hammock. Great to hear about the new baby. Keep hiking. Michael
I would have baled hiking on that trail and camped like you did. Still a great video! 👍 I had my surgery on Friday and it will be at least a month and a half before I can do some regular backpacking again.
My coworker said he didn't remember a lot of blow downs when doing it. I want to do all the PA State Forest trails, so I will eventually do it. Definitely 4 days, maybe even 5 days. Definitely putting it off for awhile.
Nice video Jason. I'm sorry your trip didnt work out how you planned. I wish I was surprised but sadly that's my assessment of the Chuck Keiper as well. My buddy and I bailed out on this hike several years ago too. This trail is nothing but stinging nettle, sidehill, and sadness haha.
this is my new favorite video of yours (I said the same about your last Dolly Sods video), and the timing couldn't be better. My wife and I decided to try and see the scenic views on the AFT, just 5 miles in and then back out. Ended up doing 1.5 miles of that lousy side hill rock slide of a trail, almost took a very bad fall, and figured we better find a place to camp and call it a day (like you did here). Unfortunately we never found a good spot and bushwhacked all the way back to the road and then back to the car. 4 hour drive there, 3 mile walk with all our gear, then 4 hours back to Erie. I've been beating myself up all week for not pushing it further, but I was hating the trail almost instantly (views were stunning though). I've only quit on a trip once before (my 1st solo trip - bad weather) and I have to say your video made me feel better about it. I'm glad to see they aren't all successful adventures and I'm glad you made the best of it out there. Thanks for the video, keep 'em coming when you can!
I did the east loop the opposite direction in July 2020, I stopped for the night just before the Boggs Run section and my day 2 was a nightmare with all the blow down and poorly marked trail. From what it looks like in your video the blaze in that section looked newer, so maybe they bypassed some of the blow down if you can imagine that. Back then the section between where you jumped on the road and the trailhead was in really good shape and a lot easier of a hike. I thought about bailing on to the road at one point but I'm too stubborn for that lol. Good hike!
I did the west loop 2 years ago over 3 days. There were definitely blow downs, slanted side trails twisting your ankles, and disappearing paths. That said I loved it! Both nights had awesome camp sites, Eddie licker run was my favorite part, Yost run falls was flowing big time. I bailed because I suck at hiking, 30 miles was about what my body could handle. The cut off trail was a swamp, feet wet the whole time, but I love that shit. Feels more adventurous! I just think about early settlers traveling this country before civilization was here, we have it way easier than they did, with way better gear. I have a trip coming up in 5 weeks, trying to decide between doing the entire chuck keiper or the allegheny front trqil
Hi Frozen. So sorry this trail is not being maintained. I had done it in 2010 during Laurel season in 2010 and it was amazing. I redid it early March with two friends. We slack packed it 4 days and slept in our cars since it was below freezing at night and we are in our 60s and 70s. No nettle to deal with but lousy maintained trail. I called the district forest office to report where the blow downs all were, where they needed new blazing and trail needed a spruce up. I thought it was because of early season but realize now no one is working on it. I got the impression that the guy in charge is elderly, not out on trails and tells you thank you, thank you, but does nothing. My husband and is maintain on the Midstate and this really saddens me. I'm going to call Keystone Trails. I've never heard of them sending a crew there but someone needs to get on that gorgeous trail and give it some TLC. I've done all the State Forest Trails and I highly recommend the STS. My favorite and it has shelters now. It has NO ROCKS. Think AT Tennessee. You will love it. Dianne McCormick AT Trip 2012
It's a shame, I really wish I lived closer, this would be an awesome trail with a little love and care. We've done the whole STS and it was awesome. I really want to redo it as it's been a few years.
I hiked this whole trail last in 2016 during November, most times I have ever rolled an ankle with a pack on. Some of the sidehills had a foot of leaves on them, that was very memorable. I remember seeing a tree with many names carved in it and I resisted. I recall a beautiful upland meadow section before a previous burn scar that came down some beautiful hemlocks. But other than that, there is a reason I haven't been back again.... Within 3-4 hours of York there are much better PA trails to pursue!
Good to see you back on the trail. On a side note, that area of Sproul State Forest is utilized by the Game Commission for the release of trouble bears that have been trapped, collared and relocated. We encountered the most aggressive sow near Fish Dam that I have ever witnessed in all my decades of working, hunting and recreating in the woods of PA. It almost got ugly. Just a heads up to those planning on visiting to be extra bear smart during their adventures.
your comment makes me wish the ranger would have mentioned that when we checked in before our backpacking trip on this trail years ago. I felt uneasy the whole time we were out there -- maybe it was intuition.
It's good to see you hiking, again. Sorry it's a tough to follow trail. I would find a spot near my car and get out a compass and make my own trail. Topographic maps and bushwhacker paradise keeps the dream strong, when maintenance is a little shy.
I hiked part of it a few years ago with my dog and It is as described. The trail has no views and most of it is side hilling, stinging nettle, blow downs, overgrown. Nothing to look at...Other trails like the Old Loggers Path, Loyalsock and Black Forest trails and pretty much every other trail is worth doing more than the CKT. Happy Trails!!
Nice video, I did this trail a couple of years ago and ended up bushwacking a good mile or more of it due to some ambiguity with old vs new blazes. I rarely use my map and compass, but sure did on this one. The real challenge was the calf-deep bog walk near the end. Great memories, but not my favorite trail. There was a great unmarked campsite near the creek, not sure if it's still there. I try to temper my frustration with trails like this with the reality of how little I volunteer or give to the trail maintenance community.
It looks like it could be an amazing trail with some work. The footage from the road walk out looked gorgeous! At least you got out and got to enjoy nature a little. Can always chalk it up to lesson learned. I know you were doing this because it's a loop since you were by yourself but hey, if you ever get a few days like this and want to hit the LHHT again knowing it's well maintained. Just hit me up. My wife and I don't live terribly far from it and I work even closer to it. You could drop your vehicle off where you want to jump off and we could get you to wherever you want to start. Just throwing that one out there if you need it. Another great video though. You were determined to enjoy the trip in spite of that trail. That's what it's all about.
I attempted this trail last month and unfortunately had to bail. I'm so bummed at the lack of care this trail received, it would be such a gorgeous trail otherwise!
Hiked this trail about 40 years ago. The Boggs Run trail at that time followed closer to the run and did not side hill like it does now. Along Boggs Run there was an old narrow gauge rail line still intact! There was also a large pile of spikes used to build trestles. It was fascinating to see artifacts from that period. These things are mostly gone now. I guess they moved the trail away from creek due to flooding. Like you said the new side hill trail is harder to follow. Forty years ago the CKT was hard to follow, some things never change! As a little trivia, the trail was once blazed in yellow, not orange. I never see anyone mention the old splash dam. It is made of stone and was well preserved. Is this still on the trail?
I noticed it looked like the trail had been rerouted several times over the years. I don't think I saw the old splash dam. A big part of me wants to give this another try in the spring where the trail is hopefully easier to follow but we'll see.
We had a park ranger tell us that they just don't have enough volunteers to keep all the state forests trails maintained all the time. And a lot of state forest trails only get maintenance once every five years.
Did you end up at Oil Creek or not? If you were in the neighborhood and I missed you again I’m gonna be pissed. :) I remember how happy I was when my kids started sleeping through the night. My youngest will be 21 in a couple of weeks. Now I have 4 cats that wake me up at all hours. LOL. Hey, you are not alone. I think Syntax77 bailed part way through this one, too.
I am 57 years old I wouldn't complain as much as you do but for me to come out and do the trail I would have to ride from Louisville Kentucky to the trail I'm a bicycle to do the trail.
What are your opinions on the new z-packs arc haul pack? Do you still prefer frameless packs? I have a bad lower back some just wondering for when I start to go more on the “ultralight” side of things
If you can get your baseweight below 10lbs then yes, I prefer frameless packs. For heavier hauls I'd go with a frame. I use framed packs in the winter for instance where I need to bring extra clothes. While the arc haul is a great frame pack I feel there are too many adjustments and these days I prefer something more simple.
Insulated Tensor will take you down that low? Is that the 2022 one? I wish I wasn’t a cold sleeper, all My 3.2 pads are good to just above freezing and I start getting chilly.
Frozen is back on trail. Oh the good old Chuck Keiper trail. I did the trail solo once and then again with Dan from backpacking adventures. It's not a fun trail. There's no lookouts really to speak of, the trail maintenance is nonexistent and the ticks were bad when I went. The trail is terribly blazed. I finished it when I went Solo but Dan and I took the road out on the Second day I believe it was. I love trail hiking adventures and do a lot of multi-day trips but I wasn't a fan of the Chuck Keiper trail either. Dan and I had a joke on our future hikes we would always say the sucky parts were "Chuck Keiperesque"
Frozen, have you heard of the Durston Xmid Pro 2? Check it out. If your preping for your next thru hike, it has fixed everything I don’t like about Duplex.
I stopped using a hip belt because it more comfortable to me. Helps airflow down there too. Also don't need a hip belt with a low baseweight and I can't stand hip belt pockets. I prefer a fanny pack to hold my snacks.
It is a tough trail and overgrown and in need of some work for sure, even says so in all the research, You Gave up 7 minutes into your video and you yourself said you were outta shape, I have done sections of that trail in mid summer and struggled big time , I enjoy that trail because of its remoteness, beauty and because it is a challenge especially pushing 60 yrs of age . You are an influencer rather you know it or not, maybe volunteer some trail maintenance and video that. Keystone trail association does a work weekend every year. The Hiking world and the community along with vendors have helped you out plenty maybe you could help out a trail or organization or at least be more positive.
Yeah with that much bushwhacking and actually practicing no trail at all I would say that would be a fail trail I would get to a road and backtrack to the car yeah I can see myself doing that if you're not having fun on the trail things go wrong
I agree with you on this trail. It could be a great trail with a little more love and care. From the videos I watched before I did it I think the ones that did it in spring before any foliage, underbrush or my friend stinging nettle was there like it a lot better. Blow downs aside of course. Great video!
Thanks for sharing. Any adventure is a good one but dont think I'm putting this one on my list. Glad you did this so I dont have to. 👍🙂🙏
Really enjoyed this hike. It helps to see the whole process of your journey. Thanks for not editing out the small struggles of locating blazes and falling over logs. That was a real day backpacking and we have all experienced similar issues.
Glad you enjoyed it!
Never a failure always learning. There’s been many trails I tried that were not maintained and unable to trek through. I love how honest and real this video is, not every trip is gonna go the way you planned. ❤
Did this trail in March and only did 10 miles a day. Was pretty with moss and clear streams but was definitely hard. At the end told my friend I don't want to do this when it's grown and he agreed. After watching this I'm glad we didn't wait till late spring or summer
Thanks. This will be my plan I think. Early spring, lower mileage than usual.
Some things about the CKT. My son and I (ages 63 & 33) did the whole length in 3 days (2 nights) in June of 2019.
Pros - Secluded, you probably will not see any other hikers for the entire time. In June, the blooming Mountain Laurel was the best we've ever seen anywhere. Plenty of water for camping (however, it did rain the entire 3 days we were out). Wildlife everywhere (deer, bears, bobcats, turkeys) And, there is a wonderful guide book available that tells you everything you need to know plus a lot of interesting facts.
Cons - No trail maintenance, blow downs are everywhere. At times we only knew we were on the trail because of following blazes. Stingy nettles plenteous (must have long pants). Sides of mountains are hard on ankles as Frozen noted. And finally, do not hike solo in warm weather. We saw way too many rattle snakes. How we did not get bitten, we don't know. With the rain we couldn't hear them rattling. We stepped right beside them - I guess they were gentlemen and just let us pass.
Conclusion - you will never see us on this trail again.
Really enjoyed This hike. Loved that you didn't forget the small struggles of locating blazes and falling over logs looked like a real handful for you to pack for this trip and find Camping spots.
Some of the best advice I ever got out on the trail was to stop and look back if there were no blazes ahead. Your search for a blaze at 14 minutes reminded me of that helpful hint. Thanks for another great video. I'm glad the iron got you up and out again.
Don’t blame ya for not wanting to keep going on that. Doesn’t look like much of trail. You didn’t fail. You just wanted a trail that would give ya more of what you wanted/needed at that time. 👍
Always love your videos and honesty
It is what it is n ya made the best of it 👌 any day outside is a great day!
Ty for sharing
I've done both loops twice but in the opposite direction you started. It was actually my very first trail and I love it.
When did you do it?
When you get the time check out the Allegheny Trail in West Virginia. 300+ miles on the Eastern side of the state. Pa. Line near Bruceton Mills WV. to the Appalachian Trail near Pearisburg Va.
Thanks Frozen 👊 appreciate you, unfortunate the trail isn't in better care. Main thing is , you got outside., got a good nights rest, that's a win 👍Always great to hear from you my friend, stay safe and take care 👊 ✌️
My last like 4 attempts at an overnight/several nights overnight have ended in failure. Hate to say it but its reassuring to see someone else have similar issues.
I just got back from this trail last weekend. I did the east loop too, but counter-clockwise (opposite direction as you), so I finished by going up that first descent-it felt like it would never end, and it just got steeper.
I considered bailing at every single road crossing after the section where the trail disappears, so I don't blame you at all for making that call. After the mile or so on that hillside with no trail at all it's not so terrible, but there are some spots where you're neck deep in thick rhododendrons, a very wet marshy bog right near the parking lot, and a few more of those very steep climbs straight up a hill when you take it clockwise! Most of the climbs in the ccw direction seemed more gradual. A few nice little camping spots by the stream though. It was a good trip but very rough! Autumn is a beautiful time of year to do it, I would not even consider this trail in the summer.
I totally agree the Chuck Keiper Trail is not a good trail at all. I don’t recommend it. It just feels like bushwhacking! Some areas are pretty nice for sure but there are better trails that are worth your precious time off.
Love your channel Frozen, been watching for years. Sorry the hike didn’t work out. Looking forward to when you tackle the PCT!
I bought the small pump that Dan Becker reviewed and I love it. So easy
I did a section of this trail on the west loop, along Yost Run, in July and it was a beast. Keeping my footing was tough, there were tons of blowdowns... it was a fun challenge, in a way, but it was ROUGH.
You probably made the right call in not trying to do the whole trail. Let's just say Day 3 wouldn't have been a cakewalk. And as far as bailing out, well, guess what? I did it, too, I don't blame you. I decided against camping and night-hiked back to my car. And yeah, there are no failed outings; there are just outings, and they're all valuable.
Not a failed trip at all! You got to get outside and get a great night of sleep in your tent! I call that a win 🤘🏼 had a lot of fun watching this one man 😎
Hi Jason it is the smart thing to known when to get off a bad trail. That trail was sketchy you did the right thing. Take care
You're one of my favs to watch- so genuine, and a gentleman! This was a grand adventure! Congrats on the babe sleeping through the night- bliss! You know this was a great learning experience- I wouldn't know what it was like to encounter this scenario and how to make a good decision. The fall scenery is so lovely. I hope you get to do more hikes- family first! You can hike till your 63 like
me!
I love the capture at 4:25mins!! Good call cutting the sound
Same thing happened to me in the Adirondacks last year. Fun, ain't it, when we stumble on an abandoned or neglected trail and decide to power through. Hardly a failed trip, though.
I was just researching this trail today!! I'm so glad I happened to catch your video, Frozen.
Can't win them all but you seemed to make lemonade from the lemon of a trail.
Happy Trails 👣
good to be out on the trail with you... Rough hiking / route finding is fun but not as much when it is causing too many delays and messing with your schedule. Nice job changing your plan, seems like it made for a more enjoyable trip, better to not stress about making miles when it is that rough. looks like it worked out for the best, even the mouse gave you a break/ hate it when they try to invade your stuff// great trip thanks for taking us along
Definitely a much better time and a great time at camp just looking at the stars and fall colors.
A friend and I did the east loop back in September and yeah that Biggs Hollow section is nasty. Alot of deadfall, rocks, stinging nettle, miserable hiking, and alot of swearing on our part. Haha
Thanks for the update on trail conditions! I had the same experience on the Terrace Mountain Trail in July.
I was considering this trail for a long weekend in a couple weeks, I think I will now reconsider my options 😅
Excellent. Thank you Jason. : )
I had a very similar experience in Hammersley Wilderness area. The trail was gone. I actually used the stream as a trail to get out when I called it.
My wife and I backpacked both loops and found it to be wonderfully secluded and challenging. It is real hiking. Camping spots were hard to come by from my recollection.
What year did you go? Looked like it was a nice hike at one point.
@@FrozensAdventures We did the East Loop in July and West Loop in September of 2018. I do recall some blowdowns which made the trail difficult to follow at times. The side hill walking was strenuous in certain hollows too. If we used a hammock finding camping spots would not be as challenging but we use a tent so level spots near water was not a easy to come by.
Absolutely stunning bud, this is amazing!
This was my first ever backpacking trip. I remember that stinging nettle very well. I saw a rattlesnake and my friend wanted to eat it haha
We lucked out with dry weather for hiking, but made for long carries between water sources. Brother and BIL were relying on the maps for water sources, which were mostly dry that year. (2018) We started clockwise from the check-in station. We had one stretch of @16 miles between water. I Camaled up at the first stream we hit and they were giving me a ration for carrying the weight, but didn’t have much to say when I was only one with water. They were banking on water as is normal in PA. Had another dry stretch @12-13 miles, towards the end until we hit a picnic area along a highway that had a pump. Last night camped by a stream with @3-4miles to finish. My Texas mentality helped, “when you find water fill all containers”. Looking forward to doing the Guadalupe Mountains, but reliable water is sparse there. They recommend carry of two gallons. Have to trim gear down to still stay around 35# probably 3-5 day hike, and probably sleep under a Dyneema fly, have to do more research about trees for hammock. Great to hear about the new baby. Keep hiking.
Michael
Congratulations on your new baby
Thank you!!
Missing your hiking videos bud! Hope all is well and family life is treating you good! How to see you on the trail soon.
Same here. Soon!
I would have baled hiking on that trail and camped like you did. Still a great video! 👍 I had my surgery on Friday and it will be at least a month and a half before I can do some regular backpacking again.
My coworker said he didn't remember a lot of blow downs when doing it. I want to do all the PA State Forest trails, so I will eventually do it. Definitely 4 days, maybe even 5 days. Definitely putting it off for awhile.
Nice video Jason. I'm sorry your trip didnt work out how you planned. I wish I was surprised but sadly that's my assessment of the Chuck Keiper as well. My buddy and I bailed out on this hike several years ago too. This trail is nothing but stinging nettle, sidehill, and sadness haha.
Great video. Thanks for sharing
this is my new favorite video of yours (I said the same about your last Dolly Sods video), and the timing couldn't be better. My wife and I decided to try and see the scenic views on the AFT, just 5 miles in and then back out. Ended up doing 1.5 miles of that lousy side hill rock slide of a trail, almost took a very bad fall, and figured we better find a place to camp and call it a day (like you did here). Unfortunately we never found a good spot and bushwhacked all the way back to the road and then back to the car. 4 hour drive there, 3 mile walk with all our gear, then 4 hours back to Erie. I've been beating myself up all week for not pushing it further, but I was hating the trail almost instantly (views were stunning though). I've only quit on a trip once before (my 1st solo trip - bad weather) and I have to say your video made me feel better about it. I'm glad to see they aren't all successful adventures and I'm glad you made the best of it out there. Thanks for the video, keep 'em coming when you can!
I got the Tensor and love it! It’s good down to low 20’s.
I did the east loop the opposite direction in July 2020, I stopped for the night just before the Boggs Run section and my day 2 was a nightmare with all the blow down and poorly marked trail. From what it looks like in your video the blaze in that section looked newer, so maybe they bypassed some of the blow down if you can imagine that. Back then the section between where you jumped on the road and the trailhead was in really good shape and a lot easier of a hike. I thought about bailing on to the road at one point but I'm too stubborn for that lol. Good hike!
I did the west loop 2 years ago over 3 days. There were definitely blow downs, slanted side trails twisting your ankles, and disappearing paths. That said I loved it! Both nights had awesome camp sites, Eddie licker run was my favorite part, Yost run falls was flowing big time. I bailed because I suck at hiking, 30 miles was about what my body could handle. The cut off trail was a swamp, feet wet the whole time, but I love that shit. Feels more adventurous! I just think about early settlers traveling this country before civilization was here, we have it way easier than they did, with way better gear. I have a trip coming up in 5 weeks, trying to decide between doing the entire chuck keiper or the allegheny front trqil
The Allegheny front was nice. I'd recommend it. I wasn't able to complete the whole thing but say 80% of it.
I'm sorry to hear about your experience with that trail. It happens.
At lease you were able to bed down for the night.
Still a fun trip for me :)
Hi Frozen. So sorry this trail is not being maintained. I had done it in 2010 during Laurel season in 2010 and it was amazing. I redid it early March with two friends. We slack packed it 4 days and slept in our cars since it was below freezing at night and we are in our 60s and 70s. No nettle to deal with but lousy maintained trail. I called the district forest office to report where the blow downs all were, where they needed new blazing and trail needed a spruce up. I thought it was because of early season but realize now no one is working on it. I got the impression that the guy in charge is elderly, not out on trails and tells you thank you, thank you, but does nothing. My husband and is maintain on the Midstate and this really saddens me. I'm going to call Keystone Trails. I've never heard of them sending a crew there but someone needs to get on that gorgeous trail and give it some TLC. I've done all the State Forest Trails and I highly recommend the STS. My favorite and it has shelters now. It has NO ROCKS. Think AT Tennessee. You will love it. Dianne McCormick AT Trip 2012
It's a shame, I really wish I lived closer, this would be an awesome trail with a little love and care. We've done the whole STS and it was awesome. I really want to redo it as it's been a few years.
I hiked this whole trail last in 2016 during November, most times I have ever rolled an ankle with a pack on. Some of the sidehills had a foot of leaves on them, that was very memorable. I remember seeing a tree with many names carved in it and I resisted. I recall a beautiful upland meadow section before a previous burn scar that came down some beautiful hemlocks. But other than that, there is a reason I haven't been back again.... Within 3-4 hours of York there are much better PA trails to pursue!
The CKT west loop is pretty much the same; overgrown, blowdowns, sidehilling, and hard to follow at times
Good to know. I had a curiosity if that side was any better but nvm now lol..
Good to see you back on the trail. On a side note, that area of Sproul State Forest is utilized by the Game Commission for the release of trouble bears that have been trapped, collared and relocated. We encountered the most aggressive sow near Fish Dam that I have ever witnessed in all my decades of working, hunting and recreating in the woods of PA. It almost got ugly. Just a heads up to those planning on visiting to be extra bear smart during their adventures.
your comment makes me wish the ranger would have mentioned that when we checked in before our backpacking trip on this trail years ago. I felt uneasy the whole time we were out there -- maybe it was intuition.
It's good to see you hiking, again. Sorry it's a tough to follow trail. I would find a spot near my car and get out a compass and make my own trail. Topographic maps and bushwhacker paradise keeps the dream strong, when maintenance is a little shy.
I hiked part of it a few years ago with my dog and It is as described. The trail has no views and most of it is side hilling, stinging nettle, blow downs, overgrown. Nothing to look at...Other trails like the Old Loggers Path, Loyalsock and Black Forest trails and pretty much every other trail is worth doing more than the CKT. Happy Trails!!
Did the Susquehannock Trail System three years ago and had a bunch of the "Non-Flat" trail you hit. Just North of where you are.
Yea we did the whole STS a few years ago. It rained the first 3 days and tore our feet up but it was really nice!
Parts of that trail looked like more of a bushwhack. At least you got caught up on some sleep.
Nice video, I did this trail a couple of years ago and ended up bushwacking a good mile or more of it due to some ambiguity with old vs new blazes. I rarely use my map and compass, but sure did on this one. The real challenge was the calf-deep bog walk near the end. Great memories, but not my favorite trail. There was a great unmarked campsite near the creek, not sure if it's still there. I try to temper my frustration with trails like this with the reality of how little I volunteer or give to the trail maintenance community.
It looks like it could be an amazing trail with some work. The footage from the road walk out looked gorgeous! At least you got out and got to enjoy nature a little. Can always chalk it up to lesson learned. I know you were doing this because it's a loop since you were by yourself but hey, if you ever get a few days like this and want to hit the LHHT again knowing it's well maintained. Just hit me up. My wife and I don't live terribly far from it and I work even closer to it. You could drop your vehicle off where you want to jump off and we could get you to wherever you want to start. Just throwing that one out there if you need it. Another great video though. You were determined to enjoy the trip in spite of that trail. That's what it's all about.
I attempted this trail last month and unfortunately had to bail. I'm so bummed at the lack of care this trail received, it would be such a gorgeous trail otherwise!
Totally agree with you. I think this trail could be amazing with a little work.
Hiked this trail about 40 years ago. The Boggs Run trail at that time followed closer to the run and did not side hill like it does now. Along Boggs Run there was an old narrow gauge rail line still intact! There was also a large pile of spikes used to build trestles. It was fascinating to see artifacts from that period. These things are mostly gone now. I guess they moved the trail away from creek due to flooding. Like you said the new side hill trail is harder to follow. Forty years ago the CKT was hard to follow, some things never change! As a little trivia, the trail was once blazed in yellow, not orange.
I never see anyone mention the old splash dam. It is made of stone and was well preserved. Is this still on the trail?
I noticed it looked like the trail had been rerouted several times over the years. I don't think I saw the old splash dam. A big part of me wants to give this another try in the spring where the trail is hopefully easier to follow but we'll see.
My husband and I made the same error you did where that road crosses. lol
And congratulations Dad.
Yeah I would definitely say that's just a hiking trail bushwhacking style
That is definitely one beautiful trail I could see myself on that bike packing as well that would take more energy though pain and pleasure
Hiking trails that on hills like that make it so easy to roll an ankle or injure your knees.
We had a park ranger tell us that they just don't have enough volunteers to keep all the state forests trails maintained all the time. And a lot of state forest trails only get maintenance once every five years.
Makes sense. As I said if I lived closer I'd definitely lend a hand.
Thanks for the video
Did you end up at Oil Creek or not? If you were in the neighborhood and I missed you again I’m gonna be pissed. :) I remember how happy I was when my kids started sleeping through the night. My youngest will be 21 in a couple of weeks. Now I have 4 cats that wake me up at all hours. LOL. Hey, you are not alone. I think Syntax77 bailed part way through this one, too.
I did!. Was able to stay at cow run for the night and take the bike trail out. Don't be pissed. I'm always there! I love it
I am 57 years old I wouldn't complain as much as you do but for me to come out and do the trail I would have to ride from Louisville Kentucky to the trail I'm a bicycle to do the trail.
What are your opinions on the new z-packs arc haul pack? Do you still prefer frameless packs? I have a bad lower back some just wondering for when I start to go more on the “ultralight” side of things
If you can get your baseweight below 10lbs then yes, I prefer frameless packs. For heavier hauls I'd go with a frame. I use framed packs in the winter for instance where I need to bring extra clothes. While the arc haul is a great frame pack I feel there are too many adjustments and these days I prefer something more simple.
Looks and sounds like you made Lemon Aid out of a Lemon!
Hey I didn't say it would be fun! But that's one off the list for Pennsylvania!
I actually had a great time in the area from 4:30pm on to the car :) All worked out. Leaves were awesome!
@@FrozensAdventures lol glad to hear your baby is good!
@@FrozensAdventures the west loop is way better than that
As a fellow PA hiker, I would be very paranoid about ticks when following a “trail” like that.
Permethrin helps tremendously.
Insulated Tensor will take you down that low? Is that the 2022 one? I wish I wasn’t a cold sleeper, all
My 3.2 pads are good to just above freezing and I start getting chilly.
Not sure of this year or last year. Got it on amazon. The uninsulated one brought be down to 34 no problem.
Frozen is back on trail. Oh the good old Chuck Keiper trail. I did the trail solo once and then again with Dan from backpacking adventures. It's not a fun trail. There's no lookouts really to speak of, the trail maintenance is nonexistent and the ticks were bad when I went. The trail is terribly blazed. I finished it when I went Solo but Dan and I took the road out on the Second day I believe it was.
I love trail hiking adventures and do a lot of multi-day trips but I wasn't a fan of the Chuck Keiper trail either. Dan and I had a joke on our future hikes we would always say the sucky parts were "Chuck Keiperesque"
I think that "Chuck Keiperesque" phrase might become a thing with me as well =P
@@FrozensAdventures haha yes!!!
What selfie stick/tripod are you using? Height? I was looking at one that goes 31" high. Im wondering how yours compares. Thanks.
I'm using this one. I like it a lot, gives me options. I also use an Ultrapod for camp since it's a bit more stable.
amzn.to/3zT7sVh
Hi from 🇬🇧
Hey Frozen which tensor are you using the insulated or non? Thanks bro!!
Using.both actually. The insulated one I'd say goes down to about 20. Non insulated maybe 36.
@@FrozensAdventures thanks bud!
Frozen, have you heard of the Durston Xmid Pro 2? Check it out. If your preping for your next thru hike, it has fixed everything I don’t like about Duplex.
That's what i'm leaning toward now yes. Seems great but man it's very expensive.
@@FrozensAdventures that’s true, but as we have learned. The best products aren’t cheap. If they were everyone would have one.
I also read that the floors are made with silpoly for repairability. So the price tag really doesn't sit well with me.
Nice shout out to the wife at home! Question though, she doesn't make it 40 minutes in to your videos at this point to see it, right? lol ;)
Congrats on that baby sleeping all night and congrats on the ability to get out and enjoys Gods creation.
Tyty !
Did the trail color change because you went from Orange to red and ever so often The blaze is orange again or a reddish orange
Is the trail wellmarked
For the most part yes. Some areas the trees have fallen so you'll need to look around.
And also when and why did you decide to stop using a hip belt?
I stopped using a hip belt because it more comfortable to me. Helps airflow down there too. Also don't need a hip belt with a low baseweight and I can't stand hip belt pockets. I prefer a fanny pack to hold my snacks.
How were the ticks ?
Didn't experience any on this trip with the temps.
It is a tough trail and overgrown and in need of some work for sure, even says so in all the research, You Gave up 7 minutes into your video and you yourself said you were outta shape, I have done sections of that trail in mid summer and struggled big time , I enjoy that trail because of its remoteness, beauty and because it is a challenge especially pushing 60 yrs of age .
You are an influencer rather you know it or not, maybe volunteer some trail maintenance and video that. Keystone trail association does a work weekend every year. The Hiking world and the community along with vendors have helped you out plenty maybe you could help out a trail or organization or at least be more positive.
👍👍👏👏😊😊
Frustration and other emotions make you human. I actually prefer such unsentimental views of daily trail life. Sorry about the sucky trail.
Yeah with that much bushwhacking and actually practicing no trail at all I would say that would be a fail trail I would get to a road and backtrack to the car yeah I can see myself doing that if you're not having fun on the trail things go wrong
Hey Frozen, I got a reply from what looked like an alternate account from you. Is this you or a scam? Said TEXTME with a number
Yup it's spam and happening to many UA-camrs.
@@FrozensAdventures shame, we were having a pleasant conversation lol
@@TheEriegpman 😂
What?!?! All you need to do is eat more meat!!!