I began this run heading clockwise from the trailpost at Parker dam state park at 6:30 am on Saturday, April 13th. Trail conditions were very wet from several weeks of heavy rain. Temps were between 35 and 45 degrees with winds up to 20 mph.
My gear included: a Salomon 12 litre vest, 2 litres of water, portable filter, headlamp, rechargeable battery, emergency bivy, extra shirt and socks, rain jacket, gloves, 2 buffs, trekking poles, about 4000 calories of assorted cookies, chocolate bars, gummies, gels, electrolytes and a soft flask filled with maple syrup.
The first 13 miles were fast, non technical with rolling hills and a few stretches of paved and gravel road. Miles 14 to 40 get significantly more strenuous and technical, with steep ascents/ descents around 800 feet. Miles 40 to 50 were smooth and fast. The final 25 miles were a mix of fast and technical sections with a lot of stream crossings, a couple of steep hills, and a few confusing portions where the trail seems to disappear. Some of these areas were especially slow going at night, but fortunately the trail is very well marked throughout, so I never found myself too far off trail.
Water levels were very high and the trail was consistently waterlogged throughout the run. Feet stayed soaked, shoes became heavy, and extra socks were pointless. This trail is probably quite wet even in ideal conditions, but I would recommend attempting this route in the fall.
Quehanna was a beautiful area, with lots of varied environments, great wildlife and deep isolation. I highly recommend checking this trail out.