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Hike Pole Steeple, Pine Grove Furnace SP

Newville, Pennsylvania

3.6/5
based on 5 reviews

Details

Distance

1.5 miles

Elevation Gain

1250 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Kendra Reeder

Short, but steep, hike that ends with a gorgeous view of Pine Grove Furnace State Park. Great for beginners looking for a challenge!

Pole Steeple begins in Pine Grove Furnace State Park and ends in Michaux State Forest. The hike is short, only a .75 mile climb up, and ends at the rock outcropping where you get a great view of the entire park. Pole Steeple is the main trail to the summit but there is also a longer, less steep of a trail that follows the cliffs on the south side of the mountain and eventually leads to the top.

There is also a trail that links Pole Steeple and the Appalachian Trail.

Access to Laurel Lake is only a few minutes drive from the parking area to Pole Steeple and offers canoeing, kayaking, swimming and picnicking - great for families!

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Features

Hiking
Family Friendly
Lake
Picnic Area
Scenic
Swimming Hole

Hike Pole Steeple, Pine Grove Furnace SP Reviews

While it was a short hike, this hike had some fun challenges along the way (like some steep rocks to climb up) and a very rewarding view at the top! A perfect trip for the average hiker looking for the next challenge up.

This hike was fairly short, but can be quite steep at times. Can be difficult in the fall when there are loose leaves on the ground, especially if it recently rained. During the summer it is very busy and is usually crowded. The view from the top is pretty good, however!

Completed hike on 15 July. Vast numbers of blueberry plants with tiny ripe fruit. Even a currant or two for the watchful. Several kinds of mushroom for photographs NOT for eating. No facilities on trail side of lake so make your civilized pit stop before going to trailhead. Full service snack bar and picnic area adjacent to lake with various boat rental opportunities. Kids loved the paddleboat rental following the 1.25 hour hike (we took it slow).

For a beginner hiker this is 5 stars! Great hike, good workout if you push yourself or easy if you take your time. For more experienced hikers i would say it is just a 3-4 star place. But the view is nice! Enjoy!

There are definitely better spots in the area, but this spot makes for a fun adventure. I've hiked all the trails in this park and they all have their own little perks. It's a nice place for families and beginners who want to get into hiking.

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

Nearby

Hike to Sunset Rocks in Michaux State Forest

Camp at Tom's Run Shelter

Rock Climb at White Rocks

Hike to the Cumberland Valley Overlook

Hike Quaker Race's Lakeside Trail

Hike to the Susquehanna Overlook