December 13, 2025
Today’s journey started our trek through the Central District. The initial trek was to start
at the Swift Run Entrance (mile marker 65) to Lewis Mountain (mile marker 57), but we
had to shorten it to the South River Picnic area (mile marker 62) We had our first
snowfall of the winter, and we were unsure of the conditions.
We began our right off the bat ascent of 627’ in the first 1.5 miles. We stopped at
Saddleback trailhead and took a snack and water break. The sun was beginning to rise,
and I snapped a few pictures of the sky over Hightop. We continued through the snow
for the last 1.5 miles and thankfully it was a gradual ascent. We made it to the spur trail
to the parking lot and ran into a hiker who was going down to the falls. The South River
picnic area has ample parking and is a lovely spot to have lunch. Per the Park website,
there are no fires allowed at South River. It is a popular site given the proximity to the
Swift Run Entrance.
I wore my Yaktrax on this stretch, and I was glad I did. The conditions were moderate
with the snow, but I want to make sure I am equipped with the proper gear. All in all, it
was a great short hike after a 2-week break.
Stats- 3.22 miles/889’ elevation gain
Critter recap- none
