Tiadaghton Fall Foliage

Previously the "Blooiming Laurels" Trip - now in the fall!

This 3 day, 2 night route occurs during typical peak fall foliage for the vast Pine Creek Valley! There will be multiple opportunities to view the array of oranges, yellows, and reds from 2000+ foot vistas. This route also lands us at Little Pine State Park night 1, where camp fire wood is readily available and a local restaurant in walking distance. Night 2 we have the option for a 3-sided shelter, pending rainy weather. For a late fall hike – this route is perfectly suited for cold weather backpacking!

This trip is dedicated to empowering women in the outdoors.

registration opens 1/13

About

Located in Tiadaghton State Forest, this backpacking route is an ~26 mile loop trail connecting the Tiadaghton Trail & Mid State Trail sections. Highlights of this route are multiple gorgeous views, option for sunrise on a vista, tent camping in Little Pine SP with showers, restaurant within walking distance night 1 and trail shelters night 2 if the weather calls for it.

This strenuous route includes multiple long, steep assents and descents, with a total of ~6,500 ft of gain. Much of the terrain is rocky/unstable, earning this route the title of “most technical” of the trips offered. The trip is rated “very difficult” and a WRG ruck will be required (virtual options available). Please reach out with questions about this. You can also check out any of the 4 available Ruck Day/Hike Days for opportunities to prepare!

As with most Wild Roots guided backpacking trips, we will begin hiking early Friday morning and front-load the adventure (Saturday covers 12+ miles) so that we can have time on Sunday to grab grub nearby! The post hike dinner is a great way to cap & commemorate your experience with others.

Photos from Blooming Laurels (same route) in '23 & Fall Foliage in '24

Trip Gallery

Quick Facts

When: Friday, Oct 10th – Sunday, Oct 12th 2024
Where: Tiadaghton State Forest
Who: women who are looking for an adventure and are experienced on technical trail
What: a 3 day backpacking trip. Everything you’ll need will be on your person, and we will camp 2 nights in the PA Wilds enjoying the sounds of nature and company of other adventurous women.
Why: through individual experience & community, cultivate a sense of confidence and competence while enjoying Mother Nature and the lessons she provides. Also, the mountain laurels in full bloom are a magical experience, so… why not?
Registration: $399/person

What you'll learn

Leave no trace principles
How to store food in the backcountry (PCT bear-bag hang – and other options)
Respecting, appreciating, and staying safe amongst wildlife
Packing a balanced backpack, and choosing gear that is right for you
How to complete your own shakedown – what to bring, what not to bring
How to support your fellow backpackers along the journey
Your own strength!

Quick Facts

What you'll learn

When: Friday, Oct 10th – Sunday, Oct 12th 2024
Where: Tiadaghton State Forest
Who: women who are looking for an adventure and are experienced on technical trail
What: a 3 day backpacking trip. Everything you’ll need will be on your person, and we will camp 2 nights in the PA Wilds enjoying the sounds of nature and company of other adventurous women.
Why: through individual experience & community, cultivate a sense of confidence and competence while enjoying Mother Nature and the lessons she provides. Also, the mountain laurels in full bloom are a magical experience, so… why not?
Registration: $399/person

Leave No Trace principles
How to store food in the backcountry (PCT bear-bag hang – and other options)
Respecting, appreciating, and staying safe amongst wildlife
Packing a balanced backpack, and choosing gear that is right for you
How to complete your own shakedown – what to bring, what not to bring
How to support your fellow backpackers along the journey
Your own strength!

Have more questions?

Hope to see you at the next one!

Past Events

Hope to see you at the next one!

Past Events

Hope to see you at the next one!

Past Events

Testimonials

what our hikers say

Expect meticulous attention to detail during consultations. Erica is thorough in the packing list she shares and highlights the importance of "leave no trace." During the backpacking trip itself, Erica takes on the role of ambassador to the sport. She shows care for her fellow adventurers, shares her expertise, while teaching them how to be confident and competent in the wild. Her energy and love for adventure are contagious!

I attended a ruck day and also had an initial consult with Erica. She is extremely knowledgeable and provided a great experience during the ruck day. I look forward to learning more from her in an upcoming backpacking trip. This trip was empowering and so enjoyable. If you are interested in backpacking or increasing your knowledge set, this is the place to be.

Erica of Wild Roots is just tremendous! I would highly recommend her! My experience was fantastic and I left with better confidence in my abilities (thanks to great pre-ruck conversations and pre docs), an amazing day of experiences with new friends (magical conversations and sharing), and better understanding of what others do in their own experiences (all shared how they pack, favorite tools and items, learned the [PCT] bear bag method, etc). Thank you so much Erica- I'm looking forward to more miles together for sure!!

Testimonials

what our hikers say

Elizabeth aka "Snail Sweeper"

Tracy

Katey