If you’re looking for a short but somewhat challenging trail in the Michaux State Forest, then Sunset Rocks is the one for you.
You can treat this trail as a loop, but we did it as an out-and-back trail, leaving from Old Shippensburg Road near Pine Grove Furnace State Park. The one-mile out-and-back trail features steep grades up to 35%, so you’ll want to bring your hiking poles, even for the short trek.
The views from the top aren’t as far-reaching as those from Pole Steeple Vista nearby, but they are still worth the climb. And it’s fun to climb around on the rocks on the top of the ridge.
The guide below has everything you need to know before you head out on this short but steep trail. So, let’s start planning your next adventure!
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Sunset Rocks Trail From Old Shippensburg Road
The trail to Sunset Rocks from Old Shippensburg Road is a short but STEEP hike. We did this trail after completing the Pole Steeple Trail and could easily do both on a winter afternoon.
Coming from Old Shippensburg Road, the trail is very steep, as you ascend about 300 feet in less than half a mile. Towards the top, the grades are about 20-35%! Unfortunately, we didn’t have hiking poles, but they would have been very useful on this trail, especially during our descent back down the trail.
Alternative Hike: You can extend the hike and complete the full Sunset Rocks Trail loop leaving from Camp Michaux off Michaux Road.
Although it’s not the best view near Pine Grove Furnace State Park, it is still really beautiful, even in the winter. The rocks at the top are fun to climb and play around on.
Prepare For Your Hike to Sunset Rocks
Parking
There is a small parking area at the dead end of Old Shippensburg Road for about 3-4 cars. This hike isn’t as popular as other hikes nearby, like Pole Steeple Vista, so it shouldn’t be too busy.
Amenities
There are no bathrooms at the trailhead. However, there are bathrooms about 1.5 miles away at Pine Grove Furnace State Park.
Limited Cell Service
There is limited cellular service in Michaux State Forest. Before you head out, download a map (the Pine Grove Furnace State Park map contains Sunset Rocks).
Wildlife
Pennsylvania has many types of wildlife, including black bears and poisonous snakes like timber rattlesnakes. Always be aware of your surroundings and watch out for wildlife.
Pets
Leashed dogs are allowed on the trail.
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.
Hike to Sunset Rocks Near Pine Grove Furnace State Park
| Trail Location: | The trailhead is just across the Appalachian Trail from Old Shippensburg Road |
| Trail Length: | 1 mile, out and back |
| Trail Difficulty: | Harder side of moderate due to the steep incline of the trail |
| Trail Type: | Out and back |
| Elevation Gain: | 450 feet |
| Dog Friendly: | Yes |
Trailhead
From Old Shippensburg Road, cross the Appalachian Trail and follow the signs to Sunset Rocks. We detoured a bit to grab a cute photo on the footbridge by the trailhead. This is such a beautiful area.
Along the Trail
The Sunset Rocks Trail starts out on the easy side of moderate. Like on other trails nearby, you’ll encounter rocks along the trail.
About 3/10 mile into the trail, it starts to get very steep, with grades up to 35%. We have benefited from hiking poles on this section of the trail, but unfortunately, we didn’t have them.
At the top of the ridge, make a left to head towards Sunset Rocks. This section of the trail levels out a bit, but you’ll encounter more large rocks as you get closer to Sunset Rocks.
At Sunset Rocks
You’ll know you’ve reached Sunset Rocks when you reach the large open rock outcropping (that faces west!). The view is of another ridge in the distance, but even in the winter, it was beautiful with all the green pine trees. It might be a more obstructed view in the summer.
Sunset Rocks Wrap-Up
This was a fun trail in the Michaux State Forest. It’s short enough to combine with other nearby trails, like the Pole Steeple Vista. It would even make a fun detour if you’re hiking along the Appalachian Trail.
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