Michael Sauers
October 8, 2024
Back in my youth this was a true hiking adventure. It included lots of wildlife sightings and many unique forest features, some of which have been altered. Not to worry, it still packs a punch.
This trek begins at the train tunnel located in the village of Lofty in northern Schuylkill County (Google it). The rail line, built in 1854, no longer functions but the tunnel is intact. There is water in the tunnel so you will need high boots, a rain jacket and a flashlight. The tunnel runs approximately 1,100 feet and day light is always seen. Like all tunnels it holds mystery and adventure.
As you exit the tunnel, you will see a small, natural spring hugging a trail that descends to the valley floor. Back in the day this was a beautiful footpath winding through rhododendrons. I saw many snakes on this trail so keep your eyes open! Unfortunately, this trail has devolved into a dirt bike, four wheel off-road path. This was done by a bunch of mooks (not to be confused with “cumps”) too fat or too lazy to walk. They did the same thing in other parts of this hike but the mooks and their damage can easily be ignored.
At the bottom of the trail it T’s into another trail. I always go right as this direction leads to several opportunities to cross the valley. Traversing the valley involves going through wetlands. I recommend doing this hike after a few hard rains as this will necessitate crossing a wire bridge and maneuvering around and through swamps, bogs and ponds. A patient, observant and quiet traveler has a good chance of spotting wildlife. Turtles, beavers, muskrats, weasels, porcupines, snakes frogs/toads, turkeys, foxes, coyotes, bears, bobcats, fish, owls, hawks, eagles and perhaps, a few wild dogs, are there. Carry bear spray! I have seen all of these creatures over the years and I have never had a problem. It’s quite possible that the mooks go on wildlife killing sprees???????? One can never really understand a mook mentality.
Anyway, when to get across the wetlands you will run into a trail. Go left. It will take you through woodlands bordering the Lofty Dam. Most likely this will have been partially timbered. In two miles or so you will reach the breast of the dam. This is a good place for lunch. The Lofty Dam is about 30 acres. It contains a variety of fish including catfish, perch, bass, and trout. It’s possible the mooks have fished this out?????
Cross the breast of the dam and turn left. Walk until you come to the trail that led you down into the valley. Hike up and out the tunnel.
This hike may involve some bushwhacking but probably not. Use your phone. Take a map. Challenge your sense of direction. It will be hard to get lost. Have fun.