The NCTA is pleased to offer its membership a guided backpacking trip on the North Country Trail through Pennsylvania's gorgeous Allegheny National Forest. The dates for the trip are October 18-23, 2013, and the cost is $295 per person. This 36-mile excursion will occur with fall foliage still on display. Highlights include the spectacular cliffs, boulders and crevasses in the Minister Creek area, old growth hemlock and beech forest in Tionesta Scenic Area, and several excellent vistas overlooking the forested terrain. The ANF lies on the Allegheny Plateau and is cut by numerous creeks which result in many ascents and descents along the trail. However, no climb is higher than 500 feet.

Limited to eight participants plus two leaders, this trip is suitable for experienced backpackers as well as novices who are in reasonably good shape. Participants must provide their own tent, sleeping bag, and backpack although a limited number of these items are available to rent.

The trip is led by NCTA volunteers Paul Shaw and Todd Lange. Both are graduates of the National Outdoor Leadership School (NOLS), have more than 25 years combined guide experience, and are the owners of an adventure travel business, Treks & Trails International.

NCTA Allegheny Forest Backpack Trip