Mid State Trail

Mid State Trail is a long-distance hiking route spanning about 325 miles from the Maryland border to US 22, crossing a variety of landscapes throughout Pennsylvania. The path runs over rocky ridgelines and through forested mountain areas at varying elevations.

The trail was established in 1969 by the Penn State Outing Club, initially running through the Seven Mountains within Rothrock and Bald Eagle State Forests. These early forest routes formed the foundation for what became the extensive hiking system today.

The trail is part of the Great Eastern Trail network, linking multiple hiking systems through natural passages across Pennsylvania.

Some sections of the route have different rules about overnight camping: certain areas prohibit dispersed camping, requiring hikers to use designated campgrounds or nearby facilities. It is important to check the camping rules for each section before your trip.

The route passes through different forest types as elevation increases: lower areas are dominated by southern oak forests, while higher sections transition into mountain forests with maples, beeches, and birches. This shift in vegetation gives the trail distinct ecological character at different elevations.

Location: Pennsylvania

Part of: Great Eastern Trail

Website: http://hike-mst.org

GPS coordinates: 39.79337,-78.54675

Latest update: December 10, 2025 20:00