Date: 02/02/2020 – Distance: 9.2 mi – Elapsed Time: 6.25 hr – Ascent: 1074 ft – Descent: 1074 ft – Difficulty: Hard
Sunday, Groundhog Day, was a beautiful day. Temperatures got up to the mid 50’s and the sun was out. I had been wanting to catch this bridle trail for a bit and I decided to make the hike. This trail is on the northern end of Alum Creek north of US 36. The trail is called the Hunter’s Hollow Trail. It has a few deep ravines, a couple of cliffs overlooking Alum Creek Lake. I was expecting lots of mud and a couple swollen creek crossings due to recent rains, but it wasn’t too bad. I was able to keep my footing on hills and the water barely touched my boots. The trail begins off of Howard Road near the entrance to the Howard Boat Launch parking lot. The trailhead isn’t labelled, but it’s recognizable. There is decent signage at intersections and blue blazes on trees. The trail is about 9 miles if you do all of the intersecting loops, which I recommend for the views. Beginning at Howard Road it goes all the way to US 36 at the south end before turning back from where you came. Be careful along these cliffs, as they are high and fragile shale. This is also a hunting trail so be conscious of the season and wear bright clothes. Also if you see a horse (I saw some tracks), yield and give them plenty of room to pass. Also be conscious of the property boundaries nearby. Most of them are marked and I’ve heard the neighbors don’t like trespassers.
Waypoints:
- Doc’s Trail Map – Google Maps
- Parking – N40° 17.280′ W82° 57.310′
- Trailhead – N40° 17.350′ W82° 57.308′
- Restroom – N40° 17.276′ W82° 57.255′
Links:
Leave a Reply