New trail to old trees

A short hike in the FH Dutlinger Natural Area

This is an area I've been meaning to explore for awhile, a small tract of old growth trees that missed getting cut during the logging boom. 

The hike began with a sketchy crossing of the fast flowing Hammersly Fork. The road you take to the ford continues well into the valley but driving the ford was not an option today. This means a pleasant jeep road walk past a few more hunting camps.

The Triple B camp marks the end of the road and turns into more of a trail winding up the valley along the Hammersley. The owners of the camp provide some basic trail guidance and also maintain the trail register at the top of the hollow. 

The trail eventually passes an old Civilian Conservation Corps camp, all that remains is an old wooden cabin and stone chimney.  

Here an opening appears on the left side of the valley, this is Beech Bottom Hollow. From here you begin a steep steady climb up the hollow along an old road. You quickly leave the open valley and are brought into a deep hollow. While the climb is steady views of Beech Bottom Run which cut this hollow provide a welcome distraction. 

Before long the stream dries up and turns to mossy rocks. You find yourself surrounded by massive hemlocks on all sides. The trail wanders a bit further through the natural area allowing a chance to explore a unique piece of woods. The sense of isolation is enhanced knowing the Hamersley Wild Area borders this area to the north. This wild area is one of the largest roadless areas in Pennsylvania. 

After a couple hours of wandering I headed back down to the valley. A local hunter out looking for a dog spared me another cold river crossing and damp drive home.