Black Forest Trail – 3 Days / 2 Nights UL Backpacking Loop
November 27–29, 2026 | Friday–Sunday
Meeting Location: Boat Launch Parking Lot, Slate Run, PA
Meeting Time: Friday, November 27, by 10:00 AM
Join us for a challenging 3-day, 2-night ultralight backpacking adventure on Pennsylvania's legendary Black Forest Trail!
We'll tackle the approximately 42–43-mile loop through Tiadaghton State Forest, exploring rugged ridgelines, deep forest valleys, beautiful overlooks, and remote wilderness in the Pine Creek region.
This is a challenging backpacking trip with substantial elevation gain. We'll cover approximately 14–15 miles per day while carrying everything we need for three days and two nights in the backcountry.
### Trip Itinerary
Day 1 – Friday, November 27
Distance: approximately 14 miles
Elevation gain: approximately 2,500–3,000 ft
Start the loop and hike through rugged forest terrain.
Set up camp for the first night.
Day 2 – Saturday, November 28
Distance: approximately 14–15 miles
Elevation gain: approximately 2,500–3,000 ft
Continue along ridgelines, valleys, and scenic overlooks.
Set up camp for the second night.
Day 3 – Sunday, November 29
Distance: approximately 14 miles
Elevation gain: approximately 2,500–3,000 ft
Complete the loop and return to the trailhead.
Overall Trip Statistics
Total distance: approximately 42–43 miles
Total elevation gain: approximately 8,000–8,500 ft
Duration: 3 days / 2 nights
Route: Black Forest Trail Loop
Starting/ending point: Slate Run, PA
Daily mileage and elevation are preliminary estimates and may change based on campsite selection and actual route conditions.
### Backpacking Style
This is an UL (ultralight) backpacking trip. The goal is to keep pack weight down while maintaining appropriate safety and comfort.
### Required Gear
Lightweight tent, tarp, or hammock shelter
Sleeping bag/quilt suitable for late-November temperatures
Insulated sleeping pad
Three days of food
Stove and cooking equipment (optional for no-cook setup)
Water filter/purification system
Adequate water-carrying capacity
Headlamp with backup power
Navigation device or smartphone with offline maps
First-aid and emergency supplies
Insulated layers, gloves, hat, and rain/wind protection
Trekking poles strongly recommended
Late-November conditions: Be prepared for freezing temperatures, snow, ice, strong winds, wet trails, and potentially difficult weather. Winter-capable clothing and equipment are essential.
### Participant Expectations
Previous overnight backpacking experience required.
Comfortable hiking 14–15 miles daily on rugged terrain.
Good physical conditioning and ability to handle significant elevation changes.
Self-sufficient with personal gear, food, and water.
Able to maintain a steady group hiking pace.
Practice Leave No Trace principles.
### Important Notes
This is a wilderness backpacking adventure, not a guided commercial trip. The itinerary may change depending on weather, trail conditions, campsite availability, and group safety.
Participants are responsible for evaluating their physical abilities, carrying appropriate equipment, and making their own safety decisions.
Disclaimer: Participation is voluntary and entirely at your own risk. The organizer assumes no responsibility for injuries, accidents, illness, loss of property, or other damages that may occur before, during, or after the event. By participating, you acknowledge the inherent risks of wilderness backpacking and accept responsibility for your own safety and decisions.
Pack light. Hike strong. Enjoy the wilderness!