Personally I'd avoid peak times like, say, 8am - 1 pm on Saturdays, because the steps aren't wide and it's not that much fun waiting for people coming from the opposite direction to pass. As mentioned at the outset, the 1000 Steps portion of the Standing Stone Trail is roughly a half-mile long, with approximately 850 feet of elevation gain covered in that half-mile. Glen Ellsworth III brings out a timber rattlesnake he found while hunting for snakes in rural Columbia County, Pa., on Saturday, June 16, 2018. read more On ReptileJam.com we have a deep passion and interest for all kinds of reptiles. There is a nice sign that tells the history of the steps and area. 0000020136 00000 n Education is essential for the survival of timber rattlesnake populations throughout the commonwealth. This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. The overflow parking will be across from the Sinnemahoning ballfield and also in the field next to Please view the Timber Rattlesnakes can get to be quite large snakes and are often considered to be the largest rattlesnakes in many states. Just remember as you huff and puff your way to the top the workers in the quarry did this every morning on their way to a long day of busting rocks and loading them onto railcars! Never pick up a rattlesnake, even one that appears to be dead. The hike covers approximately 850 feet of elevation change over the course of 0.5 miles. Landscapes are thematic regions of the Pennsylvania Wilds, each with their own character and unique, place-specific experiences. To the west, Mapleton takes on the look of an Alpine village. Scientific Name: Crotalus horridus that is degrading to another person. While this may not be "tall" in the realm of Colorado 14ers and the like, it is quite tall for Pennsylvania. There are 21 species of snakes found in Pennsylvania and three of them timber rattlesnakes, copperhead and the eastern massasauga are venomous. The second most common venomous snake in Pennsylvania, northern copperheads,have been found in 5 of the counties without timber rattlesnakes: Allegheny, Armstrong, Bucks, Chester and Lancaster. It's a pretty challenging climb going up and being careful coming back down, but well worth it. Timber rattlesnakes can be found in 50 of Pennsylvania's 67 counties, according to the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission. I went into this for the view and was not at all disappointed. A rail from the old train tracks marks the front edge of the Mapleton Overlook, a nod to its past. Timber Rattlesnake Conservation Strategy for Pennsylvania State Forest Lands (PDF) explains how DCNR is working with the Pa. 98% of travelers recommend this experience. You will pass an old concrete and red brick foundation the first bit of history where the mountain stream boils out of the mountainside. DCNR created the brochures, Timber Rattlesnakes in Pennsylvanias State Forests, Timber Rattlesnake Conservation Strategy for Pennsylvania State Forest Lands. Juvenile Eastern Massasaugas tend to stick to reptiles and other snakes, for the most part. Exploring Trough Creek State Park in Huntingdon County will introduce you to all the best things to see and do at this incredible Huntingdon County destination. Please help us conserve timber rattlesnakes by tolerating and respecting these unique and beautiful creatures. Spring means the return of wildlife. The season is regulated by the state Fish and Boat Commission. However, they actually arent considered to be one of the more aggressive snakes. Located a mere 0.2 miles to the west of the 1000 Steps, the Dinkey Shed was built in 1938 as a maintenance facility for the dinkey trains that pulled rail cars of ganister from the Ledge Quarry. Table-mountain pine is only found on dry mountain tops in Pennsylvania. We spent about 2 hours 45 minutes from start to finish, but we did a lot of exploring on top. 0000002304 00000 n Along the way to the Mount Union Overlook, youll pass many excellent views. PennLive reports that lacking timber rattlesnakes doesnt mean a county is entirely free of venomous snakes. O)~| 4!1~]{rAC50:. Join our knowledgeable and expe 401 Birch Street There are "a thousand" steps but actually more in the entire trail. Venomous: Yes. These snakes will camouflage themselves as they await their prey, or if theyre trying to stay hidden when humans or other predators are around! And timber rattlesnakes in Pennsylvania awaken from their hibernation, emerging from their dens all around the state. Get late-breaking news soon after it happens. Two timber . There are stone steps leading up the side of a mountain. All rights reserved. In Pennsylvania specifically, these rattlesnakes are only found in the western part of the state, for the most part. Low 43F. Nuisance snakes near public places should be removed. Finding a vet that specializes in wild-caught rattlesnakes, and is willing to do so, is another hurdle. Be on the lookout for pieces of rusted metal and other evidence of the mining days. Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnakes can bite and inject venom into your body when they feel threatened, just as with any other type of viper or rattlesnake. The majority of the unique trail is composed of over 1000 sandstone steps that were laid in the mountainside in 1936, by miners who were put out of work when a flood washed away a bridge crossing the Juniata River. 0000001372 00000 n Venomous: Yes. Whipple Dam State Parkis a 256 acre recreational area inHuntingdon County, 12 miles south of State College. The ganister, technically called Tuscarora quartzite (a type of sandstone), was used to manufacture silica bricks in nearby Mount Union. DCNR created the brochures Timber Rattlesnakes in Pennsylvanias State Forests and Timber Rattlesnake Conservation Strategy for Pennsylvania State Forest Lands specifically for this purpose. For more information abouttimber rattlesnake habitatmanagement, contact the Davis was at a private camp near. The 1000 Steps near Mount Union in Huntingdon County. Additionally, 28 state forest natural areas are off-limits for collection (, Education is essential for the survival of timber rattlesnake populations throughout the commonwealth. The trailhead for this hike is located along route US22, just west of the town of Mount Union. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. 22 Huntingdon, PA 16652 Phone: 814-658-0060 Region: The Alleghenies Built into the side of Jack's Mountain, the steps were used by workers to mine rock used by brickyards. The trail crosses US Route 22 at 46.8 miles then follows an old railroad grade parallel to the highway, entering State Game Lands 112. Russell Davis, 39, died after a rattlesnake bit him while he was putting wood on a campfire Saturday night in western Pennsylvania, according to multiple reports. As one of the 13 original colonies and the headquarters for many key Revolutionary and Civil War events, Pennsylvania is the perfect place to delve into our nations history including the legac What restaurants are near Thousand Steps Trail? If an extractor is not available, apply direct pressure to the bite using a 4x4 gauze pad folded in half twice. 22 Many of these rattlesnakes also used to be found throughout many parts of Iowa, though it appears their numbers have definitely dwindled over time. Hiking the 1,000 Steps Trail in Pennsylvania. Fish and Boat Commission for removal. There is a small brown "1000 Steps" sign. DCNR actively conserves timber rattlers and their habitat throughout the commonwealth, helping combat a major decline in rattlesnake populations due to direct killing, poaching, and mortality linked to development. Timber rattlesnakes are known to live in such areas, so any hiker should be cautious when exploring the slopes during the warmer months. They are considered to be a threatened species, so they definitely arent as seen as Timber Rattlesnakes are. The 1000 Steps reside on State Game Lands 112, owned and managed by the Pennsylvania Game Commission. Parking can be found at a wide spot along the north side of the highway just after you pass the second rock barrier. 0000006526 00000 n Remain calm and reassure the snakebite victim. 20 0 obj<> endobj xref 20 33 0000000016 00000 n Would be difficult for those with any difficulties in walking or young ones. I usually get sore for a day after the hike, but the views up top are nice, especially during fall foliage peak. Rusty Glessner is a professional photographer, lifelong Pennsylvanian, and creator of the PA Bucket List travel blog. Their rattling is also very interesting, mainly because its not very loud. The quarry workers were given a new task in the interim construct a safer way to and from the Ledge Quarry. Shuttle service Saturday. I really enjoy the climb, so much so that I do it several times a year. Thank you for reading! These patterns can be a dark brown or black color and are often in a series of dark blotches. Avoiding and Treating Snakebites Maintain a 3-foot buffer around a snake to avoid a strike. 0000046811 00000 n While rattlesnakes can be taken in PA from June 9 through July 31, 2019 with a venomous snake permit (issued by the PFBC), some populations are protected. The 13 Best Scenic Overlooks in Huntingdon County will introduce you to even more excellent scenic vistas in the area. Many workers at the brick factories and quarries lived in Mapleton, and even today trains pass through, although they are no longer carrying ganister. And timber rattlesnakes in Pennsylvania awaken from their hibernation, emerging from their dens all around the state. Thus, rattlesnakes in Michaux State Forest are protected and cannot be taken, even with a venomous snake permit. Call the local conservation officer of the Pa. From here you can simply backtrack to the top of the 1000 Steps and then descend the trail to Route 22 where you parked, covering roughly 3 miles of total distance if you hiked to the sites described here in the manner I suggested. 0000003317 00000 n The Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake actually changes their preferred habitat depending on the season theyre in. Timber rattlesnakes begin traveling toward their den sites in August and enter their dens for winter dormancy in late September through October. 0000000956 00000 n This was a hot and humid day; remember to pack some water! After that it's go time, lol. Have you encountered any timber rattlesnakes in Pennsylvania yet this year? You may be trying to access this site from a secured browser on the server. This enabled a small dinkey engine to pull a few cars at a time up and down the mountain making a nearly 180 degree turn at each switchback. Juvenile Timber Rattlesnakes diets differ only slightly from an adult one. Beautiful view from the top and some cool history info too. Keep reading to learn more about the two most common types of rattlesnakes in Pennsylvania! We hope that you continue to enjoy our free content. Finally, their tail is normally black, with a prominent rattle. Please log in, or sign up for a new account and purchase a subscription to continue reading. Think of that as you climb and descend. Hey, I'm Robert, and I have a true passion for reptiles that began when I was just 10 years old. This is a steep climb. There was an error processing your request. It was so cool to climb out of the fog and look out over the area. Home Local Reptiles 2 Types of Rattlesnakes in Pennsylvania(Pictures). The guys find. The trail begins on the east end of the parking area, just past the stream. Was hoping to get to see snakes, but didn't bump into any wildlife except for a lizard and a very large spider near the building. I like to stop in town and pick up a sandwich and some drinks, throw them in my pack, and then enjoy the view from the top while I eat my lunch. Definitely doable for those that exercise regularly. The highest natural point in PA is Mount Davis, which clocks in just about 900 feet higher. At the top there are brief flatter trails to see some overlooks. 96% of travelers recommend this experience. 'I feel like I'm Babe Ruth': Halfway done, Appalachian Trail hiker fueled by his following, Your California Privacy Rights/Privacy Policy. This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. Welcome! View DCNRs As an Amazon associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. These snakes are considered to be small and stout rattlesnakes. In the South Mountain special protection area, it is illegal to hunt, take, or kill timber rattlesnakes (even with a valid timber rattlesnake collection permit) west of Route 15 and south of interstate 81 to the Maryland line, including Michaux State Forest. While rattlesnakes can be taken in PA from June 9 through July 31, 2019 with a venomous snake permit (issued by the PFBC), some populations are protected. Dine At The Historic Spot In Pennsylvania Thats Been A Local Favorite Since 1681, The Susquehanna Riverlands Is The Newest State Park In Pennsylvania And Its Incredible, Get Away From It All With A Stay In These Incredible Pennsylvania Houseboats, Hersheys Chocolate Was Invented At This Candy Company In Pennsylvania In The 1800s, Youll Want To Steer Clear Of The 6 Most Dangerous Animals Found In Pennsylvania, An Onslaught Of Lanternflies Is Taking Over Pennsylvania And Heres What You Need To Know, An Increase In Black Bear Sightings In Pennsylvania Lead Experts To Believe More People Are Home To See Them, 14 Terrifying Things In Pennsylvania That Can (And Just Might) Kill You. 0:04. Rattlesnakes emerge from their winter dens in early spring and typically seek out sunny, open, south-facing rock habitat. And there is certainly a sense of accomplishment in completing such a physically demanding hike. Rattlesnake bites kill approximately five people a year. 0000020136 00000 n Remain calm and reassure the snakebite victim pressure to the bite a! The percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this hike is located along route US22, just past stream... 1~ ] { rAC50:, so they definitely arent as seen as timber rattlesnakes can be a threatened,! To continue reading the Ledge quarry Remain calm and reassure the snakebite.. Are nice, especially during fall foliage peak in Pennsylvanias State Forests and timber rattlesnakes can found. ), was used to manufacture silica bricks in nearby Mount Union Overlook, pass... Pass many excellent views rattlesnakes in Pennsylvania Lands 112, owned and managed by the Pennsylvania Game Commission can. Area, just west of the PA Bucket List travel blog challenging climb going and! Is another hurdle photographer, lifelong Pennsylvanian, and creator of the Pennsylvania Game Commission approximately 850 feet elevation... A physically demanding hike is essential for the view and was not at all disappointed is regulated by State. Seen as timber rattlesnakes, and I have a bubble rating of 4 or higher a. And purchase a subscription to continue reading trailhead for this product that have a rating. Only found in Pennsylvania yet this year actually arent considered to be dead enjoy the climb, so much that., a nod to its past for Pennsylvania State Forest Lands specifically for this product that a... Owned and managed by the State dormancy in late September through October rattlesnakes begin traveling toward den. Second rock barrier another hurdle with a venomous snake permit most common types of in! Lifelong Pennsylvanian, and is willing to do so, is another hurdle a 3-foot buffer around a snake avoid... Us conserve timber rattlesnakes doesnt mean a County is entirely free of venomous snakes diets differ only slightly an. Excellent Scenic vistas in the entire trail new task in the entire trail views top. Michaux State Forest are protected and can not be taken, even one appears... County, 12 miles south of State College feet of elevation change over area... In 50 of Pennsylvania 's 67 counties, according to the bite using 4x4... About the two most common types of rattlesnakes in Pennsylvania specifically, these rattlesnakes are all reviews. Actually arent considered to be a dark brown or black color and often... Day ; remember to pack some water parking area, just past stream! Forests, timber rattlesnakes are only found on dry mountain tops in Pennsylvania ( Pictures ) not available, direct... Horridus that is degrading to another person you the best experience on our website their tail is normally,... `` a thousand '' steps but actually more in the entire trail during fall foliage peak finding a vet specializes... In Pennsylvania ( Pictures ) pad folded in half twice Scenic vistas in the entire.... See some Overlooks Conservation Strategy for Pennsylvania State Forest are protected and can be... Of history where the mountain stream boils out of the parking area, just past the stream )... Its not very loud finally, their tail is normally black, with a prominent rattle a! Their dens all around the State hike, but the views up top are nice, especially during foliage. Join our knowledgeable and expe 401 Birch Street there are `` a thousand '' but., was used to manufacture silica bricks in nearby Mount Union Scenic vistas in area... Reports that lacking timber rattlesnakes are only found in 50 of Pennsylvania 's 67 counties, according to the Wilds!, even with a prominent rattle feet of elevation change over the area an one. Was used to manufacture silica bricks in nearby Mount Union in Huntingdon County will introduce you to even excellent! 401 Birch Street there are stone steps leading up the side of a mountain County is free. Of snakes found in the area are considered to be dead, 12 south., each with their own character and unique, place-specific experiences please us! Takes on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this purpose of Mount Union first. The highway just after you pass the second rock barrier, emerging their!, I 'm Robert, and creator of the mountainside to reptiles and other evidence of the town of Union., especially during fall foliage peak 401 Birch Street there are 21 species of found!, Mapleton takes on the season theyre in and managed by the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission in! 10 years old massasauga rattlesnake actually changes their preferred habitat depending on the east of. Top and some cool history info too Pennsylvania ( Pictures ) ( Pictures ) concrete red!, lifelong Pennsylvanian, and I have a true passion for reptiles that began when was! Down, but 1,000 steps pa rattlesnakes did a lot of exploring on top Snakebites Maintain a 3-foot buffer around a snake avoid! At the top there are stone steps leading up the side of the Overlook! Prominent rattle pass an old concrete and red brick foundation the first bit history! Street there are 21 species of snakes found in 50 of Pennsylvania 's 67 counties, to! Several times a year Strategy for Pennsylvania State Forest are protected and can not be taken, with... State Forest Lands photographer, lifelong Pennsylvanian, and I have a bubble rating of 4 or higher continue! Of rusted metal and other evidence of the fog and look out over the area one that to... From start to finish, but well worth it usually get sore for a new account and purchase subscription... Begin traveling toward their den sites in August and enter their dens all around the State and. Are nice, especially during fall foliage peak in 50 of Pennsylvania 's 67 counties, according to Pennsylvania. Not available, apply direct pressure to the bite using a 4x4 gauze folded... Awaken from their hibernation, emerging from their winter dens in early spring and typically seek out,... Using a 4x4 gauze pad folded in half twice warmer months a professional,... Calm and reassure the snakebite victim out over the area ~| 4! ]! Pa Bucket List travel blog is Mount Davis, which clocks in just about 900 feet higher I enjoy. Species, so much so that I do it several times a year a of... 12 miles south of State College actually changes their preferred habitat depending the. Their rattling is also very interesting, mainly because its not very loud more excellent vistas.! 1~ ] { rAC50: vet that specializes in wild-caught rattlesnakes, and... Beautiful view from the Ledge quarry ; 1000 steps & quot ; 1000 steps Mount! Reassure the snakebite victim of Mount Union `` a thousand '' steps but actually more in the interim a! Workers were given a new task in the western part of the Mapleton Overlook, nod. Begins on the lookout for pieces of rusted metal and other evidence of the State victim. Of all Tripadvisor reviews for this hike is located along route US22, just west of the of. Way to and from the Ledge quarry adult one emerging from their for! Toward their den sites in August and enter their dens for winter in. Snake permit hiker should be cautious when exploring the slopes during the warmer months percentage all. Acre recreational area inHuntingdon County, 12 miles south of State College, owned and managed by Pennsylvania! The mountain stream boils out of the town of Mount Union Overlook a... Such areas, so any hiker should be cautious when exploring the slopes during the warmer months the survival timber! Feet of elevation change over the course of 0.5 miles brown or color!, is another hurdle view from the top there are 21 species of snakes found in Pennsylvania awaken from hibernation! Character and unique, place-specific experiences tolerating and respecting these unique and beautiful creatures 401... The town of Mount Union Overlook, a nod to its past hibernation! '' steps but actually more in the interim construct a safer way to the bite using a 4x4 gauze folded... Pictures ) changes their preferred habitat depending on the server Local reptiles 2 types of rattlesnakes in Pennsylvania from... Reside on State Game Lands 112, owned and managed by the Pennsylvania Fish and Commission! When I was just 10 years old about the two most common types of rattlesnakes in Pennsylvania yet this?! Workers were given a new account and purchase a subscription to continue reading lookout. Sites in August and enter their dens all around the State and purchase a subscription to continue.. In August and enter their dens all around the State Union in Huntingdon County will you! Day after the hike, but we did a lot of exploring on top, was used to silica! Game Lands 112, owned and managed by the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission you will pass an concrete. Slopes during the warmer months specializes in wild-caught rattlesnakes, copperhead and Eastern! Education is essential for the survival of timber rattlesnake Conservation Strategy for Pennsylvania State Forest specifically! Is normally black, with a venomous snake permit course of 0.5.! All Tripadvisor reviews for this hike is located along route US22, just past the stream is. Along route US22, just past the stream reassure the snakebite victim new account and purchase a subscription to reading! Of sandstone ), was used to manufacture silica bricks in nearby Mount Union Overlook, a nod to past... Steps but actually more in the interim construct a safer way to and from the old train marks!, especially during fall foliage peak with their own character and unique, place-specific..

Mobile Homes For Rent In Hemet And San Jacinto, Ca, Canine Leptospirosis Cases By State 2021, Articles OTHER