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Stone Valley Vista Loop

A stunning viewpoint towering over a historic iron making center in Greenwood Furnace SP.

Hiking Moderate

Distance
7.2 km
Ascent
289 m
Descent
289 m
Duration
1-2 hrs
Low Point
322 m
High Point
582 m
Gradient
12˚
Stone Valley Vista Loop Map

Located near Greenwood Furnace State Park, and along the final few miles of the Standing Stone Trail, Stone Valley Vista is one of the best overlooks in the area. It's an excellent day hike if you're visiting Greenwood Furnace, or a great day trip if you find yourself in the area. The PA DCNR even boasts the park as one of the "25 Must-See Pennsylvania State Parks" and a lake stocked with trout draws in visitors year-round.

Description

According to Wikipedia, Greenwood Furnace began as a historic iron-making center, though a ghost town is all that remains of the community. Prior, the region was inhabited by the Juniata tribe, which translates to The People of the Standing Stone, the article continues. The iron furnace, which you can still visit to this day, began operations in the 1830s, and was later followed by sawmill - and even a tavern. A tree nursery operated through most of the 1900s, producing as many as three million seedlings per year during its peak in the 70s and 80s.

Most would consider this hike moderate in difficulty, often following old logging paths that date back to the 1800s. Restrooms and potable water are available within the park, and the campground offers 50 sites, most having an electric hookup. Hunting grouse, squirrel, deer, and turkey is permitted in the park and ice fishing draws in visitors during the winter.

Source

Difficulty

Moderate

Hiking along trails with some uneven terrain and small hills. Small rocks and roots may be present.

Medium Exposure

2 out of 4

The trail contains some obstacles such as outcroppings and rock which could cause injury.

Remoteness

2 out of 4

Away from help but easily accessed.

Best time to visit

between March and November

Features

  • Wildlife
  • Picturesque
  • Dog friendly
  • Wild flowers
  • Water features
  • Family friendly
  • Forestry or heavy vegetation

Similar routes nearby

Guidebooks in this area