Coopers Gap Loop

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This corner of Rothrock in Mifflin County is favored by mountain bikers but provides hikers and runners a network of equally scenic and well-maintained tracks, thanks to the mountain bikers.

Due to the popularity with mountain bikers, this hike heads up the steeper section of the Shittaka Trail to spot oncoming bikers, though chances are good you may not spot anyone at all.

Signage and blazing aren't always present but the trail treads are easy to follow. Keep an eye on the Hiking Project mobile app for on-trail, no-service navigation.

From the larger pull-off parking clearing on Coopers Gap Road, head south and west for the main climb up Shittaka Trail. This 1.5-mile section is the most difficult and will get you warmed up quickly. Just past the top of the climb, the trail rejoins Coopers Gap Rd at an intersection with the Chicken Peter Trail.

Take the Chicken Peter Trail to the right (northeast) to cross Conklin Rd onto the Beautiful Trail, which is a highlight of the hike. This stretch of trail is fairly wide as if it was originally cut as a road, which lets visitors walk shoulder to shoulder and spend more time enjoying their surroundings and less time looking at their feet.

The trail follows the ridge, descending gradually toward the Deer Tick Trail and Sand Hole Trail. Just before the three-mile mark, look for the Sand Hole Trail heading to the right (south). This short trail manages the steep slope with a few switchbacks before rejoining the Shittaka Trail. Turn right here to complete the loop heading west back toward Coopers Gap Rd and the parking area.