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A closer loop option with opportunities to spot wildlife, rewarding views, and stretches of seclusion.


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Map Key

4.2

Miles

6.7

KM

Loop

1,600' 488 m

High

1,248' 381 m

Low

406' 124 m

Up

405' 124 m

Down

4%

Avg Grade (2°)

14%

Max Grade (8°)

Dogs Leashed

Features Fall Colors · Views

Overview

This corner of Rothrock in Mifflin County is favored by mountain bikers but provides hikers and runners a network of equally scenic and well-maintained tracks, thanks to the mountain bikers.

Due to the popularity with mountain bikers, this hike heads up the steeper section of the Shittaka Trail to spot oncoming bikers, though chances are good you may not spot anyone at all.

Need to Know

Signage and blazing aren't always present but the trail treads are easy to follow. Keep an eye on the Hiking Project mobile app for on-trail, no-service navigation.

Description

From the larger pull-off parking clearing on Coopers Gap Road, head south and west for the main climb up Shittaka Trail. This 1.5-mile section is the most difficult and will get you warmed up quickly. Just past the top of the climb, the trail rejoins Coopers Gap Rd at an intersection with the Chicken Peter Trail.

Take the Chicken Peter Trail to the right (northeast) to cross Conklin Rd onto the Beautiful Trail, which is a highlight of the hike. This stretch of trail is fairly wide as if it was originally cut as a road, which lets visitors walk shoulder to shoulder and spend more time enjoying their surroundings and less time looking at their feet.

The trail follows the ridge, descending gradually toward the Deer Tick Trail and Sand Hole Trail. Just before the three-mile mark, look for the Sand Hole Trail heading to the right (south). This short trail manages the steep slope with a few switchbacks before rejoining the Shittaka Trail. Turn right here to complete the loop heading west back toward Coopers Gap Rd and the parking area.

Contacts

Shared By:

Zander Göpfert

Trail Ratings

  3.5 from 2 votes

#4851

Overall
  3.5 from 2 votes
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Recommended Route Rankings

#116

in Pennsylvania

#4,851

Overall
4 Views Last Month
693 Since Mar 9, 2020
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Photos

This picture is in the middle of Beautiful Trail.  It was mostly flat with a few rocks.  At the one end of the trail there was an outcropping of rocks with a pretty view.
Nov 5, 2018 near Milroy, PA
Beautiful Trail comes by its name honestly.
Mar 9, 2020 near Milroy, PA

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