Grove Run Trail, Forbes State Forest

It was a perfect fall day for a long hike, temps in the 50s and that golden autumn sun coming in at a long angle from blue skies.  

The Grove Run Trail is a beautiful four-mile loop that starts at the Grove Run Picnic Area in the smallish Linn Run State Park but quickly moves out into the larger Forbes State Forest.

 In the summer, there may not be much to see but leaves and a few pleasant little waterfalls.  But in November, there are views out over the other peaks of the Laurel Highlands.

 It was one of those strange autumnal days when it feels as if the sun is about to set at noon, and you find yourself checking your day pack to see if you brought a flashlight.  This is the Quarry Trail that leads all the way down to the area near the footbridge over the PA Turnpike.  I might need to come back here with my backpack and do an overnight.

 But the sun doesn't set.  It streams through the remaining yellow leaves like a blessing from on high.

The trail is a little steep and rocky in places.  Rocks and fallen leaves can be a treacherous combination, too.

 In the very center of this photo, you can see the distant peaks all misty and blue.

 The colors are subdued and rusty, but still lovely.  

 Of course, part of the trail follows Grove Run up to its headwaters in the high glens near the summit of the ridge.  There are more leaves clinging to their trees up in these hollows than in the windy valleys below.

You could usually do a four-mile trek in an hour and a half, but there was too much to stop and see along the way.  Also, it was slow going over the slippery rocks.

A good hike serves the same function as a good vacation: It makes you ready to be home...