Written and Posted by Michael Sauers
September 4, 2024
Nothing clears the mind, steadies the soul and strengthens the body like a walk through the forest. Picture yourself moving through cool valleys and mountain woodlands; exploring streams, rivers, lakes, swamps and wetlands; climbing mountain gorges with calming waterfalls and pools; treking along ridge lines with scenic views and cave exploring; viewing ancient trees and rock formations; enjoying the magnificent flora and fauna of the forest, and yes, even bushwhacking.
Although ignorance and money have diminished many tracts of large forests (residential, industrial and commercial developments, roads, off road vehicles,etc.) many still exist and with a bit of ingenuity a full day can be enjoyed.
Recently, I walked into Glen Onoko Falls from the top (off Route 93, State Game Lands 141, Carbon County, PA) and along the ridge line to the Lehigh River overlook (access from Lehigh Gorge State Park is no longer allowed). The temperature was about 70 degrees with a breeze. It was a great day for a trek and, surprisingly, there were no people! I was lucky to sight a variety of butterflies/moths including the one with the pale blue top wings. Also spotted were red and black ants building nests, various species of birds including a mountain robin, rufous-sided tohee, turkey vultures, wild turkeys, a red tailed hawk and a swallow. There was a lot of bird song. Chipmunks skirted here and there.
The highlight was the spotting of three rattlesnakes. The smallest was approximately 3 feet in length while the largest was almost 4 feet. I watched from a safe distance. Spectacular!
As I entered the top of the falls I was reminded of nature’s power. The stream was running strong as a result of recent rains. It is fed by the Hughes Swamp located at the top of Broad Mountain. Thankfully, the falls area was clean. The view from the overlook was great, as always.
This was an eight mile trek. Pretty, pretty, pretty good for a geezer. On the way out I spooked some wild turkeys. They quickly flew off and dropped a large pile of turkey doodoo. I also observed numerous instances of hair, footprints, nest sites and scat. This was evidence of foxes, coyotes and bears. The icing on the cake was eating some wild teaberries.
All in all a great day. Get out there. It beats the junk on phones, TV and the internet by miles (no pun intended).
Writer’s Note: There are numerous trails in and around Glen Onoko. Some are loops with many intersecting other trails. Do some map study. As you walk out the dirt road to the top of Glen Onoko you will pass Jean’s/John’s Run. This is a truly intriguing walk. It is wild in there with gushing water, waterfalls, steep sides, huge rocks, trails that disappear and bushwhacking. Take a hiking buddy!