Showers 500 steps and THE ROCKPILE- challenging rocky quest! 10 miles

Snapshot:
Intensity: Challenging with exploration components
Length: Approximately 10 miles
Duration: About 5 hours (Note end times are best estimate)
Pace: Brisk on flats and downs. Varied on rock scrambles
Elevation: 1,500 or so, depends on rock scrambling
Description:

Experienced hikers only for this custom designed hike located near Bethel, PA. Hike will encompass a steep rocky descent and climb as well as rock scrambles! There will be plenty of boulders and stones along the way and you may need to use your hands for balance in the most rugged sections.

Most of this hike is on the AT and will be out and back in nature as there are no trails to make a loop. However, there seems to be enough rock scrambles to make it worth it. Feel free to do a satellite search of the area and you will see what I mean.

There are some parts that are exploratory in nature, so please pack a little patience. Be prepared for fun ROCK scrambles.....YOU MUST BE OK WITH CHALLENGING TERRAIN. Last time we went here it was icy and we would not explore the rock pile. Hoping by scheduling in November instead of January fixes that.

Highlights of this hike are:

Showers 500 steps
The Rock Pile
Kimmel Lookout

GEAR REQUIRED:
1- Proper footwear- hiking boots with ankle support encouraged due to the rocks
2- Appropriate clothing for conditions: warm layers and wind protection
3- WATER or other source of hydration; food/snacks as needed
4- Electrolytes
5- Hiking poles are your discretion

WEATHER: We need dry conditions or I will need to reschedule the hike.

PARKING AND MEETING LOCATION: Appalachian Trail 501 parking lot on Lancaster Ave in Bethel PA- see Meetup PIN. We start on time!

Post Hike Celebration: Game day decision

GUEST and ATTENDANCE POLICY: All attendees must be members of Outdoor Adventure Friends. This is for communication purposes to ensure that those in attendance understand exactly what they are signing up for. Please be courteous and change your rsvp in a timely fashion if you can no longer attend an event. Repeated no shows or a history of signing up and dropping off excessively when there is a waitlist will exclude you from being moved off of future waitlists and special events
PLEASE NOTE: I cannot respond to calls, texts, emails, messages on meetup, or comments on the event page once we start hiking. Please plan accordingly.
NOTICE: Meetup organizers are not professionally trained. By attending an event you are agreeing that YOU ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR YOUR OWN SAFETY AT ALL TIMES. No member of the group EXCEPT YOURSELF can be held responsible for any damages, accidents, or liabilities incurred while hiking with us.