Turning left from the top, the steps trail (orange-blazed) continues past the old dinkey shed, where the mining engines were stored and serviced, as well as several quarry sites and another vista. DCNR partners with the PA Fish & Boat Commission (the regulatory agency for reptiles and amphibians) to assess, monitor, and protect rattlesnakes on DCNR lands. The last of the 20212 rattlesnake hunts in Pennsylvania will be the 50th annual Cross Fork Snake Hunt Saturday and Sunday, June 25-26, in Cross Fork. 0000009509 00000 n An old stone quarry, the ruins of a train shed, and some fantastic scenic overlooks. Timber Rattlesnakes in Pennsylvanias State Forests Brochure (PDF), Timber Rattlesnakes on the South Mountain Brochure (PDF), Timber Rattlesnake Conservation Strategy for Pennsylvania State Forest Lands (PDF). While rattlesnakes can be taken in PA from June 9 through July 31, 2019 with a venomous snake permit (issued by the PFBC), some populations are protected. If you own land with suitable habitat for massasauga in Pennsylvania and are interested in protection and/or management for the species, please contact Matt Marusiak at 814-776-1114 or mmarusiak@paconserve.org for more information. The miners collected loose ganister rocks and later quarried rocks that were sent down the mountainside via small cars on a narrow-gauge railroad called a dinkey. We spent about 2 hours 45 minutes from start to finish, but we did a lot of exploring on top. Description: Do not attempt first aid measures such as incision, suction, tourniquets, alcohol, or drugs on the snakebite victim. As the cold winds of winter subside and the first sprouts of spring start to emerge, now is the perfect time to come out of hibernation to delight in PAs many March activities. They may be more likely to defend themselves. Would be difficult for those with any difficulties in walking or young ones. Damage to basking or denning habitat is illegal. Chance of rain 60%. In fact, an adults rattle is often mistaken for a buzzing insect. These patterns can be a dark brown or black color and are often in a series of dark blotches. Juvenile Eastern Massasaugas tend to stick to reptiles and other snakes, for the most part. For the most part, Timber Rattlesnakes prefer to live in upland forests, or some type of rugged terrain. Hikers should take a short blue-blazed trail that leads away from Rte. It took us roughly about an hour, and we stopped a few times to take pictures and rest a bit, lol. The view from the top was incredible. If you are hiking in the woods, be aware of your surroundings. 22 Fort Roberdeau - Historic Site And Natural Area, Marzoni's Brick Oven and Brewing Company - Duncansville, 9 Places to Experience Presidential History in Pennsylvania. The Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake is found throughout various states in the Eastern and Central parts of the United States. However, the Canadian government reported that these snakes were extirpated, though they are attempting to reintroduce the species to what was once their natural habitat in the country! The dinkey shed had a mechanics pit (now filled in) where the trains could be serviced from underneath. Instead, these rattlesnakes are often shy and wont ever attack unless they feel incredibly threatened. You may be trying to access this site from a secured browser on the server. Author: Guest ContributorThe Pennsylvania Wilds is home to more than 2 million acres of public land, 50 state game lands, 29 state parks, 8 state forests, 2 National Wild & Scenic Rivers, abundant wildlife, hundreds of miles of land and water trails, some of the darkest skies in the country, and the largest elk herd in the northeast. Huntingdon, PA 16652 A brown stripe can also be found on a Timber Rattlesnakes back. This enabled a small dinkey engine to pull a few cars at a time up and down the mountain making a nearly 180 degree turn at each switchback. Follow John and Justin as they explore Venango County for Timber Rattlesnakes during the Pennsylvania Timber Rattlesnake Season. It is not the coordinates for thousand steps trail. For the purposes of this write-up, Im going to describe the hike to the left first, but it really makes no difference in what order you do them. Instead, workers hiked up rail grades or worn footpaths to the top of the mountain each day. Adults typically reach lengths of 2.5-5 feet (.76-1.5 meters), but there are reports of timber rattlesnakes growing up to 7 feet (2 meters) long. Fish and Boat Commission for removal. There are "a thousand" steps but actually more in the entire trail. Deaf and hard-of-hearing students learn new moves in dance workshop. 0000008817 00000 n [7] All rights reserved. If you arent experienced in this type of winter hiking, I WOULD NOT recommend that you try this at all, regardless of equipment. 39K views 1 year ago Rattlesnake Hunting 2021. Other vehicles will probably be parked there if it is a nice day. I went into this for the view and was not at all disappointed. There are "a thousand" steps but actually more in the entire trail. Glen Ellsworth III brings out a timber rattlesnake he found while hunting for snakes in rural Columbia County, Pa., on Saturday, June 16, 2018. Pace yourself during the climb, take frequent rests and take a few minutes to walk out the old railroad line each time that you cross it. Diamante Adventure Park - Ocean View Zip Line, Shuttle Bus from Guatemala City to Antigua, World Famous - St Augustine Nights of Lights - Water Tour, Pranburi Forest Park and Khao Daeng Join Tour from Hua Hin, Guachimontones Pyramids Tours From: Guadalajara, Trang An - Hoa Lu - Mua Cave 1 Day - Small Group Tour, Old Delhi Evening Classical Kathak Dance with Dinner. However, these specific snakes are actually quite tame and are considered to be incredibly mild-mannered, especially when compared with other rattlesnakes. Error! PLEASE TURN OFF YOUR CAPS LOCK. The Standing Stone Trail continues up around the back of the dinkey shed, and a signpost at the back right corner directs you to the Mapleton Overlook 0.5 miles further northwest. Located a mere 0.2 miles to the west of the 1000 Steps, the Dinkey Shed was built in 1938 as a maintenance facility for the dinkey trains that pulled rail cars of ganister from the Ledge Quarry. Exploring Rainbow Falls at Trough Creek State Park will show you how to find what is arguably the prettiest waterfall in Huntingdon County. Spring means the return of wildlife. Get Directions Visit Website Places nearby within 25 miles Displaying 0 locations See more More adventures in The Alleghenies The trailhead for this hike is located along route US22, just west of the town of Mount Union. A Timber Rattlesnakes diet mainly consists of small mammals. They tend to be found in upland forests across Pennsylvania, as well as in crevices and rocky habitats. Timber Rattlesnakes are therefore considered to be mild rattlesnakes. Nuisance snakes near public places should be removed. 0000003317 00000 n Timber Rattlesnake -. It's a little awkward because you're walking right beside Route 22 (William Penn Hwy). Wear boots that at least cover the ankles and look for rattlesnakes before you sit down or reach under logs and brush. 0000003910 00000 n Currently in the state, only four of 19 populations of the snake still exist. From the top of the 1000 Steps, follow a blue-blazed trail east 0.3 miles to the Mount Union Overlook. The much-maligned rattlesnake generally exhibits a docile nature but still must be respected. Interestingly, pregnant female Timber Rattlesnakes often choose to move up to rocky ledges that are out in the open before giving birth, especially during the summer. Please log in, or sign up for a new account to continue reading. From jazz concerts and Timber rattlesnakes are known to live in such areas, so any hiker should be cautious when exploring the slopes during the warmer months. There are only two kinds of rattlesnakes in Pennsylvania, but that doesnt mean rattlesnakes are rare in the state. We visited here with some locals. The SEastern and extreme SWestern parts of the state are Rattlesnake free zones. We're excited to bring you the premiere indoor archery range in the heart of the city! Its prickly cones are the best identifying characteristic. 2022 RATTLESNAKE HUNT SATURDAY, JUNE 11 & SUNDAY, JUNE 12 SINNEMAHONING SPORTSMEN'S CLUB. 0000046811 00000 n Kennett Square, Pennsylvania 19348. The 72-mile trail, laid out in 1978-1982, was originally called the Link Trail because it links the Tuscarora Trail to the Mid State Trail. However, they actually arent considered to be one of the more aggressive snakes. The reasons for its fame are many the challenging nature of the hike, the ease with which you can get to the trail head, and the incredible views from the top of the steps. 22 to the first of the 1036 stone steps. Landscapes are thematic regions of the Pennsylvania Wilds, each with their own character and unique, place-specific experiences. Unfortunately, the timber rattlesnake is listed as threatened or endangered in many states that surround PA (e.g. A mix of clouds and sun. Severe, human-caused impacts to South Mountain rattlers have necessitated additional protection. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19123. In the midwest, they are mainly found in Ohio, Indiana, Michigan, Illinois, Wisconsin, Minnesota, Iowa, and Missouri. Timber rattlesnakes may use trails, roads, or open rocky areas for basking. Business DirectoryToday's Ads Classifieds Jobs Items for Sale Yard SalesReal EstateYour Local Autos. 0000042773 00000 n How to fill out the Pa rattlesnake permit form on the web: To begin the blank, use the Fill camp; Sign Online button or tick the preview image of the document. We visited here with some locals. Timber Rattlesnake in Pennsylvanias State Forests Brochure (PDF) for additional information. And York County is not free of these venomous reptiles. Before you go make sure you are in good physicsl condition, have proper footwear and water. There is a small brown 1000 Steps sign. One species, the red diamond rattlesnake (Crotalus ruber) is a Species of Special Concern.Snake Fungal Disease (SFD) is a newly emerging disease in snakes and caused by a fungus, (Ophidiomyces ophidiicola).It may only cause mild infection in many snakes, but is known to cause . Often, they wont strike or attack humans unless they are being handled. All Rights Reserved. These snakes also have dark markings on their body. The best and most reliable method to prevent rattlers from coming into your yard is a rattlesnake-proof fence. And timber rattlesnakes in Pennsylvania awaken from their hibernation, emerging from their dens all around the state. Other vehicles will probably be parked there if it is a nice day. These snakes will camouflage themselves as they await their prey, or if theyre trying to stay hidden when humans or other predators are around! 96% of travelers recommend this experience. If you are hiking in the woods, be aware of your surroundings. While these markings can be rounded towards their head, they normally turn into v-shaped markings on the rest of their body. After that it's go time, lol. Maintain a 3-foot buffer around a snake to avoid a strike. ReptileJam.com also participates in other affiliate programs and may be compensated for referring traffic and business to these companies. As an Amazon associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Thank you for signing in! Severe, human-caused impacts to South Mountain rattlers have necessitated additional protection. Someone actually left a mace container by one of the signs for hikers. A map is posted at the trailhead. First please note the 1,000 Steps is almost 50 miles from Mifflintown, PA! Venomous: Yes. Is roughly 0.9 miles for the portion of steps only. Parking is a short walk away from the entrance to the trail. Cloudy-eyed snakes are shedding and cannot see well. Remove all rings, watches, jewelry . A few words about hiking the 1000 Steps in the winter. The date for opening is set at January 5th and it wil Sign up for our "Happy Thoughts" newsletter. We hope that you continue to enjoy our free content. Share with Us. Venomous: Yes. Most people who are bitten by venomous snakes are attempting to handle them. Technically there are 1,037 steps so all that and then some! Timber Rattlesnakes can get to be quite large snakes and are often considered to be the largest rattlesnakes in many states. Timber rattlesnakes may not be collected (even with a valid timber rattlesnake collection permit) in the 28 natural areas on state forest land listed below: Be aware. The massasauga are only found in Venango,. For example, their head is broad, flat, and triangular-shaped just like many other North American vipers. 0000006949 00000 n PA Hiking/Biking Trails Hiking the 1000 Steps in Huntingdon County By Rusty Glessner - The 1000 Steps Trailhead in Huntingdon County. They are considered to be a threatened species, so they definitely arent as seen as Timber Rattlesnakes are. Behind the Mapleton Overlook are the remains of the Ledge Quarry. 0000004244 00000 n Call the Beautiful view from the top and some cool history info too. 0000001581 00000 n All Trails/The Kawai Guy and Family. The 1000 Steps near Mount Union in Huntingdon County. These snakes can also be found in Canada, mainly around southern Ontario. Their interesting body markings and colors actually help them easily blend into their surroundings which they do often. Phone: 814-658-0060 Once you reach the top of the 1000 Steps, you can either continue to follow the orange-blazed Standing Stone Trail to the west (S.S.T. You will see two I-beam and chain link fence rock barriers, one after the other, along the north side of Route 22 (on the left, traveling east from Huntingdon). You will receive your first email soon. 0000029413 00000 n Think of that as you climb and descend. The Thousand Steps and these overlooks are part of the 84-mile Standing Stone Trail, which connects the Mid-State Trail in the north to the Tuscarora Trail in the south and was once the candidate for an Appalachian Trail reroute. Recently, the Pennsylvania Amphibian and Reptile Survey confirmed 50 timber rattlesnakes sightings in the state. specifically for this purpose. The guys find. Individual Timber Rattlesnake Hunter and Rattlesnake Possession Permit is required for hunting or possessing timber rattlesnakes. Came early by design on a warm day. Disappointing. 22 to the first of the 1036 stone steps. Definitely doable for those that exercise regularly. These pregnant females will even take their time to bask in the sun before birthing! 20 0 obj<> endobj xref 20 33 0000000016 00000 n 800 Waterfront Drive. The much-maligned rattlesnake generally exhibits a docile nature but still must be respected. There you get another panoramic view of the valley below, as well as the town of Mapleton. If you continue to use our website, we will assume that you are happy to receive all cookies (and milk!) This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Now part of state game lands and used as a recreational site, the 1000 Steps were the daily commute for men working the ganister quarry at the top of Jacks Mountain. The Timber Rattlesnake is the more common one and is found in the space between the Blue Ridge and westernmost of the Appalachians. We rank these restaurants and attractions by balancing reviews from our members with how close they are to this location. Thank you for reading! They will rattle and shake in warning if humans get too close to them and then will have no choice but to attack if their predator doesnt go away. Or if approaching from the east about two miles west of the traffic light where the bridge crosses the river into Mount Union. As long as you stay on the established trails, you need not give snakes more than a passing thought. The ganister was crushed and became the major ingredient in the manufacture of the firebrick that lined kilns used in iron, steel and glass making. Success! 0000020136 00000 n In the spring, fall, and winter, these rattlesnakes tend to like living in poorly drained, low-lying, open habitats. Ganister was mined at various mountaintop ridges and was used to supply brick factories in Port Matilda, Mount Union, Claysburg, Sproul and other central Pennsylvania locations. It was so cool to climb out of the fog and look out over the area. Hikers should take a short blue-blazed trail that leads away from Rte. This is a steep climb. DCNR partners with the PA Fish & Boat Commission (the regulatory agency for reptiles and amphibians) to assess, monitor, and protect rattlesnakes on DCNR lands. Their range also used to include Canada, including southern Ontario and southern Quebec. When you reach the Mount Union Overlook, youll be standing at the top of what was called Little Incline, one of the inclined planes used to transport rail cars full of ganister down the mountain and empty rail cars back up. Slightly Grueling Climb, but satisfying indeed. This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. Keep it Clean. 0000001236 00000 n To seethe full results of thePennsylvania Amphibian and Reptile Survey, read the full PennLive report here. We'd love to hear eyewitness 0000000956 00000 n Scientific Name: Crotalus horridus. Part of the longer 84-mile Standing Stone Trail, the Thousand Steps Trail measures just 3.4 miles, but that relatively short trek packs a lot of punch, especially when it comes to gorgeous scenery. This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. Just remember as you huff and puff your way to the top the workers in the quarry did this every morning on their way to a long day of busting rocks and loading them onto railcars! 97% of travelers recommend this experience. Please enable scripts and reload this page. There is a nice sign that tells the history of the steps and area. Be Nice. Finding a vet that specializes in wild-caught rattlesnakes, and is willing to do so, is another hurdle. Late September or early October is an excellent time to hike up the Thousand Steps Trail in Huntingdon County. Archery base course for individual, includes s York City is home to 5 independent, craft breweries all within a 1-square mile radius making it one of the greatest concentrations of breweries anywhere in the country! On your next view you will be asked to log in to your subscriber account or create an account and subscribepurchase a subscription to continue reading. Sorry, no promotional deals were found matching that code. Threats of harming another The ganister was transported from the quarry to brick factories via a network of narrow-gauge trains (referred to as dinkey trains) and cable-operated inclined planes. An email has been sent to with a link to confirm list signup. New York, Ohio). 22 Huntingdon, PA 16652 Phone: 814-658-0060 Region: The Alleghenies Built into the side of Jack's Mountain, the steps were used by workers to mine rock used by brickyards. There are 121 state parks throughout the state of Pennsylvania, giving these rattlesnakes a lot of land to find their preferred habitat. Will need to stop and rest for those that are not in shape. The truly ambitious can hike for days from the Steps! Also of interest, here's some photos from the 60th Annual World's Largest Rattlesnake Roundup. Rattlesnake bites kill approximately five people a year. The dinkey shed was in use until the Ledge Quarry closed in 1952, at which time the equipment was removed, leaving only the shell of the building. On this site we share what we know and learn about reptiles to help you give your reptile the love and care it deserves. The other species occupies a smalll area in the NW part of the state. Never pick up a rattlesnake, even one that appears to be dead. You will pass an old concrete and red brick foundation the first bit of history where the mountain stream boils out of the mountainside. Avoiding and Treating Snakebites Maintain a 3-foot buffer around a snake to avoid a strike. Thousand Steps Trail The 1,000 Steps trail makes for a great hike around the Jack's Narrows area. Better to practice on less challenging, more forgiving terrain first. the timber rattlesnake seeks solar heat exposure in an open, rocky area to aid digestion of its meal. Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnakes can bite and inject venom into your body when they feel threatened, just as with any other type of viper or rattlesnake. After the bridge was replaced, the workers then used the steps to travel from the base of the mountain to the ganister quarries near the top of the mountain. Please purchase a subscription to read our premium content. The trail begins on the east end of the parking area, just past the stream. There was an error processing your request. and M.S. Hiking the 1,000 Steps Trail in Pennsylvania. Some readers might remember that this parking area was once used as a flea market of sorts, but it is now marked with No Parking Except for Foot Access to Game Lands signs. While some of these rattlesnakes can be found in the Midwest and the Central US, they arent ever really found in any Western states. There are stone steps leading up the side of a mountain. To the west, Mapleton takes on the look of an Alpine village. These two rattlesnakes combined can be found in almost all parts of the state of PA, though they do tend to be relegated to wooded areas and upland forests. Antivenin can cost up to $3,000 per vial. Rate Price Duration; Daily Pass: $3.00 for 1 day 1 Month: $24.00 for 31 days Throughout this 9-mile roundtrip, reminders of the former quarry operation on the mountain will . London Heathrow Airport Terminal 5 Club Aspire Lounge. Notifications from this discussion will be disabled. "The Thousand Steps is a very rocky hillside its got perfect exposure and slope where snakes like to get out ask bask on those exposed rocks and there are rattlesnakes up there." He says snakes don't see humans as food and typically won't attack, unless they feel cornered. For More Information: Western Pennsylvania Conservancy. That said, if you are an experienced winter hiker, the views from the top of the 1000 Steps are outstanding with a fresh blanket of snow! 91% of travelers recommend this experience. Learn more about cookie data in our Privacy Policy. When the Great Flood of 1936 (sometimes called the St. Patricks Day Flood) wiped out the dinkey bridge over the Juniata River between Jacks Mountain and Mount Union, output at the brick factory and quarry slowed while the bridge was being repaired. How long it takes you to cover that distance is entirely up to you, and there are spots along the way up/down where the steps meet up with old railroad/inclined plane grades, which make ideal resting places. Be Proactive. The views at the top are really nice! I usually get sore for a day after the hike, but the views up top are nice, especially during fall foliage peak. While they cannot successfully prey upon large cottontail rabbits, juvenile rattlesnakes will instead focus on shrews and deer mice. Somewhat differently than other vipers, the Timber Rattlesnakes head is normally a yellow, tan, or gray color. In the South Mountain special protection area, it is illegal to hunt, take, or kill timber rattlesnakes (even with a valid timber rattlesnake collection permit) west of Route 15 and south of interstate 81 to the Maryland line, including Michaux State Forest. Were built in 1930's for a mine/quarry at the top. Education is essential for the survival of timber rattlesnake populations throughout the commonwealth. Along the way to the Mount Union Overlook, youll pass many excellent views. 0000003510 00000 n Region: The Alleghenies. 2023 Rusty Glessner Photography, LLC / PA Bucket List. The highest natural point in PA is Mount Davis, which clocks in just about 900 feet higher. Length: 36 60 in The There are 21 species of snakes found in Pennsylvania and three of them timber rattlesnakes, copperhead and the eastern massasauga are venomous. Make sure you're well-prepared for your climb up the 1,000 steps of Jacks Mountain by wearing sturdy and . 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