Center Point Knob

The Appalachian Trail  in Pennsylvania covers approximately 229 miles of diverse and rugged terrain, offering a variety of experiences for hikers. Pennsylvania’s portion of the trail is often referred to as “Rocksylvania” due to its notoriously rocky sections, making it one of the more challenging parts of the trail.  Pennsylvania’s portion of the Appalachian Trail is also rich in American history, passing through areas that were significant during the Revolutionary War and Civil War. Hikers often cross old battlefields, historical towns, and landmarks that provide a connection to the past.

This hike to Center Point Knob starts just a few miles south of Boiling Springs and climbs 2.5 miles to reach it.  The kjnob was the original halfway point of the Appalachian Trail when it was completed in 1937. The view from the knob looks out over the Cumberland Valley farmlands and can be reached from a variety of points. Parking is available in Boiling Springs at the municipal “fisherman’s lot” on Bucher Hill Road. The Appalachian Trail heads south over the wooden footbridge, through the woods, over the humpback bridge and through the green gate on the left. A right turn will take hikers through the active farmlands that they are soon to see from the top of the mountain. Once at the summit, hikers will be treated to a replica of the original plaque that marked the halfway point. The original is located at the Appalachian Trail Museum in Pine Grove Furnace State Park in Gardners.