Standing Stone Trail: Greenwood Spur

A link from the Standing Stone Trail to the Mid-State Trail.

Hiking Difficult

Distance: 11 km
Ascent: 522 m
Descent: 452 m
Duration: 3-4 hrs

Low Point: 298 m
High Point: 725 m
Gradient: 14˚

Standing Stone Trail: Greenwood Spur Map

Located deep in the Appalachian Mountains lies this incredible, lesser known 80-mile hiking trail. Commonly referred to as the SST, the Standing Stone Trail provides an incredible thru-hike with endless options for day hikes to rocky vistas and unique rock formations. The trail is also part of the 1,800-mile long Great Eastern Trail, an alternative route to the Appalachian Trail. When completed, the route will include the Pinhoti, Cumberland, Tuscarora, and Allegheny Trails - among many others.

Alan Seeger Natural Area Photo: Nicholas A. Tonelli

Description

According to www.standingstonetrail.org, "the valley to the west of the SST is the historic Native American trail called the Standing Stone Path, which connected Fort Littleton with Fort Standing Stone, today called Huntingdon." Over the last two centuries, the area has been utilized by countless coal mining and logging operations, the remnants of which can be seen along the way.

The Greenwood Spur connects the Standing Stone Trail to the 300+ mile long Mid State Trail by way of Alan Seeger Natural Area. If thru-hiking, take the opportunity to resupply at concession stand within Greenwood Furnace State Park before heading north. After passing the Greenwood fire tower, the trail quickly dips into the Alan Seeger Natural Area - an area coveted for its ancient hemlocks, beautiful rhododendron, and pristine mountain streams.

The Greenwood Spur Trail terminates at the Mid State Trail in Detweiler Run Natural Area. Take a left on the MST to access the trailhead at the junction of Bear Meadows Road and Detweiler Run Road. A State Forest campsite lies just below the switchback on the road and can be reserved here.

Sources: https://www.standingstonetrail.org

Difficulty

Difficult

Hiking trails where obstacles such as rocks or roots are prevalent. Some obstacles can require care to step over or around. At times, the trail can be worn and eroded. The grade of the trail is generally quite steep, and can often lead to strenuous hiking.