A pretty overlook and rocks to climb on? Sign me up!
We really enjoyed the hike to Chimney Rocks in Michaux State Forest. The trail itself isn’t super interesting (pretty much your typical Pennsylvania trail), but the views at the top and climbing around the rock “cave” were a lot of fun.
Overall, the trail is a moderate 3-mile out-and-back (or 4-mile loop) with a few fun finds along the way. You may even see some rock climbers on Shaffer Rocks!
If hiking to Chimney Rocks sounds fun to you, check out the full guide below.
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Multiple Options to Reach Chimney Rocks
Hiking to Chimney Rocks in Michaux State Forest is fun because you have a few options to reach the overlook. First, you can go the way we did: take the Shaffer Trail to Chimney Rocks Road, then to the overlook.
However, a longer option can include the Appalachian Trail, either from Old Forge Road (about a 4-mile loop) or Rattlesnake Run Road (a 4.5-mile loop).
No matter which way you choose, you’ll be able to enjoy the gorgeous views and fun rock scrambling at the overlook!
Prepare For Your Hike to Chimney Rocks in Michaux State Forest
Location
The Chimney Rocks outcropping and overlook is located within the Franklin County portion of Michaux State Forest, south of Route 30. To access any of the trails to Chimney Rocks, you’ll have to drive along unpaved roads within the forest.
Parking
You have a few parking options if you want to hike to Chimney Rocks.
If you plan on hiking the Hermitage and Appalachian Trail loop, you’ll want to park at the parking lot on Old Forge Road. This is a larger parking area than the next option.
We hiked to Chimney Rocks using the Shaffer Rock Trail, so we parked at the small parking area (3-4 cars) on Swift Run Road.
Amenities
There are no bathrooms at the Chimney Rocks trailhead. However, there are toilets at the Old Forge Picnic Area about a half-mile south of the Appalachian Trail parking lot. We did not use them during our visit, so I cannot confirm if they are open year-round.
We used the restrooms at Caledonia State Park, which is about a 15-minute drive from the trailhead.
Cellular Service
Cellular service was spotty while on the trail, but we had full service at the outcropping. Download a map before you head out!
Pets
Leashed dogs are allowed on the trail.
Insect Repellent
We completed the trail in February, so we had no issues. But many reviews of the trail comment on how buggy it is, especially down by Tumbling Run. Make sure to wear good insect repellent!
Watch for Wildlife
Michaux State Forest is home to many wild animals, including poisonous snakes and bears. Always be aware of your surroundings and keep your distance.
Bring The Essentials
Water, snacks, and more! Find the full list of day-hike essentials here.
Be a Responsible Visitor
Remember, as you visit this park, to respect nature. Stay on established paths, pack out your trash (including food waste), and leave what you find behind.
The more popular these destinations become, the more we need to be diligent about keeping our parks and lands clean and safe for all. You can learn more here.
Hiking to Chimney Rocks Via Shaffer Rock Trail
| Trail Location: | Swift Run Road in Michaux State Forest |
| Trail Length: | 3 miles out and back |
| Trail Difficulty: | Moderate |
| Trail Type: | Out and back |
| Elevation Gain: | 650 feet |
| Dog Friendly: | Yes |
Starting Off
At the trailhead, make a right onto the Shaffer Rock Trail (Blue blazes). The trail slightly descends for about 2/10 mile before you cross the footbridge over Tumbling Run.
Hermitage Cabin and Tumbling Run
Before you reach the footbridge, you’ll see the Hermitage Cabin to your left. It is a primitive cabin run by the Potomac Appalachian Trail Club.
You’ll also come across a sign indicating Climbing Rocks Trail that goes to the left and Chimney Rocks to the right. Make sure you follow the trail to Chimney Rocks!
After crossing the footbridge, you’ll see a sign pointing left for Chimney Rocks and right for the Appalachian Trail (but really it’s the Hermitage Trail that you would use to eventually connect to the Appalachian Trail).
Switchbacks
Just after turning left (continuing on the Shaffer Rock Trail), there are some switchbacks. They were a pleasant surprise and definitely made the trail feel easier. We appreciated them even more on the way back down.
Chimney Rocks Road
About a mile into the hike, you’ll reach Chimney Rocks Road. It’s an administrative road that is closed to motor vehicles. Make a right onto the road and continue about 2/10 mile.
You’ll see a blue trail marker indicating to make a right off the road (don’t miss it!).
There is also a sign showing it is the way to the Chimney Rocks Lookout.
At Chimney Rocks
Continue following the blue blazes about 3/10 mile to the outcropping. You’ll know you’re getting close when you cross the Appalachian Trail.
The trail leads directly to the outcropping and beautiful views of the Green Ridge in the distance. You may even see some raptors, such as bald eagles.
Have fun climbing around on the rocks! When we visited, there were several ways to get into the “cave” of the outcroppings. It was fun climbing around inside.
Good to Know: If you’re visiting in the warmer months, keep an eye out for rattlesnakes that may be sunning themselves on the rocks.
Returning to the Trailhead
When we did this hike, we treated it as an out-and-back, following the Shaffer Trail back to the trailhead, which made the total distance about 3 miles.
However, you can make this trail a 3.7-mile loop by taking the Appalachian Trail south for about 1.2 miles, then connecting to the Hermitage Trail (near the Tumbling Run Shelters), following it north to the footbridge, and then continuing on the Shaffer Trail the rest of the way.
Good to Know: If you park on Old Forge Road, the Appalachian Trail/Hermitage Trail loop is pretty much the same as the return mentioned above, however it will be closer to 4 miles long.
Other Hikes Nearby
Over our weekend hiking in Michaux State Forest, we also did the popular Pole Steeple Trail. Although it’s technically in Michaux, the parking and trail access are in Pine Grove Furnace State Park.
Another great trail near Pine Grove is Sunset Rocks. We took the trail from Old Shippensburg Road, which was incredibly steep. You can also access the trail from Michaux Road.
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