Summer weekends are my favorite because I get to explore the trails right in my backyard. This weekend I stumbled upon Pole Steeple in the Gardner area, PA, and it was even better than I expected.
Set within Michaux State Forest, this short but steep trail rewards hikers with sweeping views over Laurel Lake. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just craving fresh air and a stunning outlook, this spot really hits the mark.
Getting There: From York County to the Trailhead
The trail is right off US‑15 and takes about 50 minutes from York County. You get off the highway straight into Michaux State Forest, where parking is scarce, so try to leave early!
There’s a gravel lot nearby, but heads-up, it fills up fast on weekends, so try to get there earlier if you can.
📍 Tip: Download the map offline in advance – service gets patchy closer to the forest.
The Hike to Pole Steeple Vista
The Pole Steeple Trail is only about 1.2 miles round-trip, but don’t let the short distance fool you—it’s a steady uphill climb that’ll get your legs working.
It starts off pretty chill under the tree canopy, but things get rockier as you near the top. I had to stop a couple of times to catch my breath, but honestly, that just gave me more time to enjoy the quiet—birds chirping, leaves rustling, no notifications buzzing.
Once you reach the top, the views are breathtaking. Laurel Lake stretches out below, framed by forested hills, totally worth the climb.
Exploring Pine Grove Furnace State Park
Since the trail is only about 1.2 miles round trip, you have plenty of time left in your day to explore the area. Just a few minutes away is Pine Grove Furnace State Park, which has something for everyone. You can walk around Laurel Lake, kayak, relax by the water, or pop into the Appalachian Trail Museum nearby—it’s small but packed with interesting stories. It’s small but packed with cool stories.
If you’re looking for a quieter place to cool off, there’s a hidden spot called Fuller Lake just five minutes away. It’s calm, shaded, and a great place to take a dip away from the more popular spots.
Here’s a fun lesser‑known fact: Pine Grove marks the official halfway point of the Appalachian Trail, which stretches all the way from Georgia to Maine. Hikers here have a long-standing tradition of trying to eat a half-gallon of ice cream in one sitting.
📍 Tip: Bring a swimsuit in summer. Laurel Lake has a beach area that’s perfect for a quick dip.
A Classic Ice Cream Stop
After all that hiking in the summer heat, I had to try the infamous local ice-cream spot: Twirly Top Drive‑In. They’re known for their giant soft-serve cones. However… turns out they’re closed on Sundays! It’s a bit of a letdown, so if you want ice cream, best to plan around that.
Practical Tips for First-Time Visitors
- 🥾 Footwear: Wear hiking shoes with good grip — the rocks at the summit can be slick.
- 🕘 Timing: Early mornings are quieter and cooler — avoid peak midday sun.
- 📶 Connectivity: Download maps in advance — expect limited cell service.
- 🧺 Pack Light: Bring water, a snack, and a light jacket for the breeze at the top.
- 🧭 Navigation: Search “Pole Steeple Trailhead” on Google Maps for best results.
All in all, Pole Steeple is a perfect Sunday escape: short, scenic, and satisfying. It’s a little patch of Pennsylvania that feels bigger than it really is.
If you’re anywhere near South Central PA and want a change of scenery without an overnight commitment, this one’s totally worth it.
