The Gooseneck is unlike any other place in Pennsylvania, a rugged gorge surrounded by vast fields of talus slopes. These talus, or rock, slopes, offer non-stop views. Gorges like this are rare in the ridge and valley region of the state. Buffalo Creek flows through the gorge and can be heard on the hike. This hike is very rugged, and most of it is off trail. Care is required to traverse the talus slopes. Do not attempt if the rocks are wet.
We began at the Frederick Trail along Old Shingle Road where there is space to park. This trail is blazed. It is best to follow it down to Buffalo Creek. At the creek, head off trail and hike down the creek, which is scenic. Reach the first large talus slope and climb. This is Weathertop and it has excellent views from the summit, including one looking down the gorge. This is a beautiful spot, so spend some time here.
A very rugged descent follows to the talus slopes below, which offer more views of the gorge. Some of the rock blocks are large, and some shift, so take care. The hiking is intense, but well worth it. We crossed the talus slopes and then dropped down to the creek, which we also crossed.
Next were the talus slopes on the south side of the creek, which offered even nicer views. We climbed to the Two Towers, where there was an excellent view looking down into the lowlands. The towers are massive rock cairns. We retraced our steps down and crossed the creek again, climbing the slopes to the north.
More views greeted us. We found an old grade which crossed the talus slopes, the workmanship to build something like this was impressive. We hiked the grade down a little to more fine views. However, we soon turned around and climbed the final series of talus slopes, to more, you guessed it, views.
We then entered the woods, fearing a gruesome bushwhack through laurel. To our surprise, we came upon a hunter’s trail that was fairly easy to follow, although it was faint in spots. This trail took us back to the road, which we followed to the cars.
This is an incredibly challenging and rewarding route for experienced hikers. The terrain is very different and unique, and the views are beautiful. This loop is 4-5 miles long. Parking is at about 40.949931, -77.198476.
For the map above, red is off trail. Orange are blazed trails, although they may be blazed a different color.
Photos and videos:
Hike Pennsylvania with Jeff Mitchell 