Susquehannock Trail Thru Hike: A Bear's Tale
The Susquehannock Trail, a gem of the east coast, offers a thrilling adventure through the Hammersley Wilderness Area. But it's not just the trail's beauty that captivates; it's the unexpected encounters with wildlife, particularly bears.
The Bear's Dance
As I ventured into the Hammersley Wilderness Area, I was greeted by a sign welcoming me to the wild. But it was the sight of a bear, awkwardly plodding on two feet, that truly caught my attention. I smelled him before he saw me, and he quickly darted off the trail, only to reappear ten minutes later, still on the trail. This was a reminder that, in bear country, one must be vigilant and prepared.
What made this encounter particularly fascinating was the bear's behavior. It seemed captivated by the narrative of Michael Crichton's Congo, an audiobook I was listening to out loud. This led me to ponder the impact of human presence and storytelling on wildlife. Perhaps the bear was drawn to the thrilling tale, or maybe it was the sound of my voice announcing my presence.
The Home Stretch
As I approached Cross Fork, the trail's beauty unfolded with streams and creeks carving through the rock. However, the highlight of this section was the realization that I had yet to see a bear, a disappointment for a trail named Bear Bait. This raised a deeper question: How do we coexist with wildlife in these wilderness areas?
The Final Miles
The last few miles were a mix of dry forest and plateau, with the trail winding down to Cross Fork. My phone died, and with my Nitecore battery dead, I relied on my navigation skills, trained by the Navy. This highlighted the importance of being prepared and self-sufficient on the trail.
A Trail Angel's Ride
Upon reaching Cross Fork, I headed to the bar to recharge my phone. There, I indulged in my first-ever Iron City Lager, a Pennsylvania classic. I called for a ride and ended up hitching back to Northern Gateway with a retired Machinist Mate named John, who became a trail angel. We shared Navy stories, and I realized that the trail's beauty goes beyond the scenery; it's about the people and experiences it brings together.
Conclusion: The Susquehannock Trail's Allure
The Susquehannock Trail is more than just a hiking trail; it's an adventure filled with unexpected encounters and memorable experiences. From the bear's dance to the trail angel's ride, it offers a unique blend of nature, wildlife, and human connection. So, if you're seeking an east coast adventure, this trail is a must-do, but remember to be prepared and embrace the unexpected.
In my opinion, this trail is a testament to the beauty of the outdoors and the importance of being open to the surprises it offers. It's a reminder that sometimes, the most memorable moments are the ones we don't see coming.
