First time in PA! I will admit, I underestimated how steep and long the climbs would be. Slate Run is a really beautiful area! I really want to check out more trails in PA in the future. I scoped out the entire route the day prior which is always a huge help.
I started the loop at 6:50 AM. I knew this was going to be flat, climb, descend then repeat x 2. Conditions were great and the creek crossings were fast and dry. I tried to make good time before I had to go in hiking mode when the first climb got really steep. I survived that then ran through the unfortunate high grass stuff at the top. Then it was time to bomb downhill. My mind tends to wander but I kept reminding myself to focus. I went fast, yet safe. I eventually made my final turn and started climbing once again. This climb is even harder than the first. Or it was for me anyway. I went by the big rock and summited. Then it was all downhill until the end. Some of this downhill is steep. Made it back to the start and stopped the watch. Always happy to put in a max effort and be in one piece.
I should also mention that I went clockwise. I didn’t see anyone else on the loop. I brought 2 flasks of energy drink along with a small flask of maple syrup. It did the trick. Super happy to put this one on the map and hopefully there is more PA in my future :)