Elders Run and Middle Creek Trail Loop

The loop is approximately 5.6 kilometers (3.5 miles) long. Most hikers complete it in about 1 hour and 33 minutes, though this can vary based on pace and how often you stop to enjoy the scenery.

Yes, the trail is generally considered easy. While it features varied terrain with some stones and potential for mud, and includes both ascents and descents that can be steep in sections, it's manageable for most beginners. There are also wooden planks in some muddier starting areas.

The trail is located within the Middle Creek Wildlife Management Area. You can typically start at the Middle Creek Trailhead. Parking is usually available at the wildlife management area.

The loop offers varied terrain. Sections can be wide and well-maintained, while others feature stones and potential for mud, especially in warmer weather. You'll encounter both ascents and descents, some of which can be steep. Wooden planks are present in some of the muddier starting sections.

Along the route, you'll hike alongside Middle Creek, especially where it flows from the lake's dam. You can also discover historical elements like the bed of an old trolley line and the Ruins along Elder's Run Trail, which include an old cabin with a functioning stone springhouse.

The trail boasts a rich variety of trees like oak, American beech, and yellow birch. The undergrowth is vibrant with ferns (Christmas ferns, intermediate ferns) and moss (shining club moss, interrupted club moss). In early spring, you might spot skunk cabbages. Various bird species, including pileated and red-bellied woodpeckers, can be observed, and small springs with watercress flow off the mountain.

The trail is pleasant during warmer months due to the shade from many trees and the cooling effect of the creek. Early spring is great for spotting skunk cabbages. For birdwatchers, the Middle Creek Wildlife Management Area is globally significant for migratory birds, making spring and fall excellent times. In colder months, frozen ground can alleviate muddy sections.

Yes, the route intersects with and utilizes sections of several other trails within the Middle Creek Wildlife Management Area, including the Horse-Shoe Trail, Elders Run Trail, Middle Creek Trail, Valley View Trail, Explorer Trail, Spicebush Trail, and Conservation Trail.

The Middle Creek Wildlife Management Area generally allows dogs on trails, but they must be kept on a leash at all times to protect wildlife and ensure the safety of other visitors. Please remember to pack out any waste.

Typically, there are no entrance fees or permits required for general hiking access to the trails within the Middle Creek Wildlife Management Area. However, specific activities or events might have their own regulations, so it's always a good idea to check the official Middle Creek WMA website for the latest information before your visit.

If you prefer to avoid potential muddy sections, especially after rain or during thaw, consider hiking during colder months when the ground is frozen. This can make for a firmer, less messy experience on some parts of the trail.