I started at the northern end. The whole trail is about 25 miles. You have to hike more than a mile up to the ridgeline. It is not an easy day-hike. Once you get up to the top, the trail follows the ridgeline. The views across the valleys are spectacular. There are a lot of fantastic rock formations along the ridgeline. I watched hawks and turkey vultures take off and soar.

I hiked the whole day. I hiked about 5 miles along the ridgeline. I ate my lunch with my feet dangling over the edge of the cliff.

It may be stupid to say this but: Don't fall off the edge of the cliffs! There are no fences along this trail. If you go near the edge, be careful. I can only try to relate this to visiting the Grand Canyon. At both places, you can forget about the edge because you are so caught up in the beautful views, you don't realize that you are too far out.

Another thing to consider it the weather. You have to hike up from the bottom of the mountain through forests where it is sheltered from the winds. Bring a few layers in a daypack. I was happy that I did.

Part of the trail was blocked off when I did my hike. There was about a mile detour away from the cliff face. I think it was for nesting raptors. The posted signs only stated that it was for species protection. No problem. There were plenty of miles along the edge.

This is not an easy dayhike. The trail can be rocky and rough. You need good hiking boots other wise you could easily twist an ankle or stubb your toes very badly. But, the effort is worth the payout.

I would like to return again. As I mentioned in my other entries about Monongahelia National Forest, I made my trip in late October, so the trees were past their peak colors. I would like to do this hike when the trees are green or in their peak colors.

(See my Overview for the details on a good guidebook and maps.)