It's a glorious day when Dan posts a new video! I know you do a lot of these trails every year but I never get tired of seeing the same place done over and over again, it looks different in every season or trip!
Thank Darcy! I try to do them in different seasons and in different directions. I really enjoy doing them over and over again. But I am retired so I can do it and not have to worry about using my vacation time so focus on new trails. But I do have a couple new trails planned for this year.
Awesome trip so far. Well done on your mileage. I am jealous of your weather! I still need to wait a bit before I can get out into the backcountry with all our snow. It is nice to see and experience the trail from each direction on different trip. It is still just as beautiful. I hope your hand is alright. Those falls can dampen your season. I know mine did last summer. Take care, especially on these solo trips. Have a great day.
Thanks Steve! It’s unseasonably warm here. It not usually bitter cold but it shouldn’t be shorts weather yet. I’m going on another trip in a couple days and it’s supposed to be close to 70 degrees. I’m taking my summer gear even though it technically will still be winter. But I’ll take it! My hand is still a little messed up. Still hurts but the swelling is almost gone. Getting old sucks. Takes so much longer to heal. lol.
Wet feet are a pain, but part of it, I guess. I also roll my ancles quite easily, so I usually wear hikong boots. I all depends on the terrain... Nice hammock set-up! Have a great weekend! Kaat
Thanks Kaat! Wet feet are pretty much a given here in PA for most of the year. Even in the summer. Rains a lot. And PA is generally rocky so falls and rolled ankles are common. At least they are for me. lol.
This trail goes along quite a few creeks. I think the most of any in PA. Very beautiful. My thumb still hurts. The entire back of my hand swelled up and turned black and blue. It is getting better and I don’t think it’s broken. I’m just getting old and the little things end up big things. lol.
I agree 1,000%. Not very cold but cloudy, moody and dreary. I am looking forward to sunny warm hikes. It is a very nice trail. Rocky in spots but they usually do a good job with the blowdowns and such. Only about 2 or three views but the landscapes change frequently and are beautiful. Plus it’s a loop so no car juggling.
Thanks Dave! That’s one of the benefits of hiking a trail several times. For the most part, you know what to expect as far as camp sites. The other site wasn’t bad but this one was better all around.
Next time you're on the AFT try changing up the route a bit. The other half of the Rock Run trail loop is very nice and connects back to the AFT. There's also a way to stay on Shingle Mill Trail along Black Moshannon Creek for another mile or so upstream before taking an old logging road down to the Red Mo if you're feeling really adventurous.
Looking forward to your commentary on clockwise vs. counter-clockwise when you finish. I did it clockwise a few years ago and we're thinking about doing it again this fall.
I do talk about it toward the end of the trip. To be honest, it is beautiful and great either way you go. I did it in 2019 at the peak of the leaves changing. It was absolutely amazing. Great time to do it regardless of direction.
To be honest, I think the creek walks are more beautiful than the views on this trail. The views are good but the creeks just give it a different kind of beauty.
Thanks Rod! I do have the half wit. This one was the half zipped. A fully netted hammock. To have the halfwit in 1.0 and it had too much stretch for me. I think 1.2 is my limit. At least for comfort. But I do love the half wit. I should have gotten it in 1.2 when I bought it. But this half zipped is great. Very comfortable!
@@backpackingadventures4813 Thanks! I was a bit worried it would be a bit too fragile. I think the one I have is a 40d hex material and doesn't stretch much. Good to know the limit on them. I've been thinking of getting a shorter 10-10 1/2 hammock without much features.. but I think I still need a bit of bug protection so the half-wit looked pretty nice.
@@rodoutdoors the weight limit of the 1.0 is 200lbs and that is breaking strength NOT comfort. That is the one difference with Dutchware where their weight limits are breaking strength not comfort. A different example is Dream Hammocks weight limits are comfort so the breaking limit is higher. It’s not a big deal as long as you know what the weight rating means for each company.
I live about a mile from the AFT so I hike it often. I think that going CCW is best if you have never hiked it since the big vistas are last rather than first. Interesting you said about how you roll your ankles often. I do also and have never had an injury from it. My friend calls be rubber ankles lol.
I think I prefer clockwise on this trail. It might be because I’ve done it clockwise 4 times as opposed to just twice counter clockwise. Yeah, so I was hiking with Dakota and he referred to my ankles as rubber. I’m hoping that’s a good thing since I haven’t snapped anything yet. lol.
Dan. Great video. Being from NW PA and an avid backpacker, I really enjoy all your PA trail journeys. You always do a nice job editing with great shots. This is the first time I have heard of the AFT. It looks like a great 2 day hike. Thanks!!......Hey, where did you get that ball cap? I really like the mountain on the front. Hike on!!
Thanks! I really appreciate it. The AFT is a great trail. Not easy but not crazy hard either. Very beautiful. My hat is from the company Burton. I was getting one them on Amazon but for some reason they are unavailable. They do have a gray one. The one in this video I got a few weeks ago but I ordered it from the Burton website. But they only had like two colors. They used to have tons of options. They still have other hats but the one with their mountain logo is very limited. Looks like it may be discontinued soon.
Thanks! Not sure it is the best of all because I haven’t tried them all but I really like the Platypus Quick Draw. Much faster flow rate, no O ring to worry about falling out, don’t slow down as fast overtime like the sayer, no back flushing needed, and sealable caps. The only downside is it filters less overall than the Sawyer Squeeze. It I did the math and it would take me close to 4 years at the frequency I hike every year to hit it and I replace my filters regularly anyway so it isn’t a concern to me. Plus, I found the Sayer slows to a crawl within a relatively low amount of use. I also like it better than the BeFree. I went through like 4 of them in a year because it slowed down way too much. And, where I hike, the water isn’t really dirty as far as actual particles like dirt.
@backpackingadventures4813 oh ok thanks for the reply, very informative. I been gathering gear the past 2 years just so my kids and I can go on 2 day hikes or weekend hikes. Work is demanding and I don't get to much time for multi-day hikes. I just picked up a 60 liter klymit pack brand new for 50 bucks from a good friend. I definitely enjoy your videos, and that you hike trails that are near where we live. So many good trails around. It'll take me years to hike them all. Thanks again
As allways great video and a great trail is that campsite along 6 mile run I recognize it I think but can’t place it I live 15 minutes from the aft and spend a good bit of time on it
Thanks William! Yep. That’s along 6 mile run. Pretty much the nicest spot, I feel, on the trail. If you are going counter clockwise it is at mile 23 and mile 19 if going counter clockwise.
Hey Dan, I think you’ve mentioned this before, but out of your regular go to trails, would you say this one is the easiest? And then, I’d like to hear which direction is easier but I can wait for Part 2. Loved the beaver tree!
Hi Deb! Of my go to trails I would say this is one of the easiest. It’s hard to do a one to one comparison because of the length. To me, the West rim trail is relatively easy but it’s also 12 miles shorter. But, to me, the AFT is pretty easy . It is rocky though. I think clockwise was easier.
It's a glorious day when Dan posts a new video! I know you do a lot of these trails every year but I never get tired of seeing the same place done over and over again, it looks different in every season or trip!
Thank Darcy! I try to do them in different seasons and in different directions. I really enjoy doing them over and over again. But I am retired so I can do it and not have to worry about using my vacation time so focus on new trails. But I do have a couple new trails planned for this year.
Agreed
Awesome trip so far. Well done on your mileage. I am jealous of your weather! I still need to wait a bit before I can get out into the backcountry with all our snow. It is nice to see and experience the trail from each direction on different trip. It is still just as beautiful. I hope your hand is alright. Those falls can dampen your season. I know mine did last summer. Take care, especially on these solo trips. Have a great day.
Thanks Steve! It’s unseasonably warm here. It not usually bitter cold but it shouldn’t be shorts weather yet. I’m going on another trip in a couple days and it’s supposed to be close to 70 degrees. I’m taking my summer gear even though it technically will still be winter. But I’ll take it! My hand is still a little messed up. Still hurts but the swelling is almost gone. Getting old sucks. Takes so much longer to heal. lol.
Wet feet are a pain, but part of it, I guess.
I also roll my ancles quite easily, so I usually wear hikong boots. I all depends on the terrain...
Nice hammock set-up!
Have a great weekend! Kaat
Thanks Kaat! Wet feet are pretty much a given here in PA for most of the year. Even in the summer. Rains a lot. And PA is generally rocky so falls and rolled ankles are common. At least they are for me. lol.
@@backpackingadventures4813 I guess I better not come to PA! Haha
Love those creek views.
I hope your thumb and hand is ok.
Great hammock hang spot.
Cool video my friend and good luck on the next 23 miles
This trail goes along quite a few creeks. I think the most of any in PA. Very beautiful. My thumb still hurts. The entire back of my hand swelled up and turned black and blue. It is getting better and I don’t think it’s broken. I’m just getting old and the little things end up big things. lol.
I have there many years ago. it's really amazing! thank you for refreshing me!
You’re welcome! It’s a great trail and I have a lot of fond memories from it.
Absolutely gorgeous scenery my friend!
Thanks! It is a very beautiful trail. Especially along all the creeks.
Great trail. Did this a bunch of years ago and one i would definitely repeat.. thanks for posting!
I love it. Perfect length and difficulty to start out the year. It is worth doing it again.
boy has it EVER been a dreary sunless winter. I might add this trail to the roster this season, it looks great!
I agree 1,000%. Not very cold but cloudy, moody and dreary. I am looking forward to sunny warm hikes. It is a very nice trail. Rocky in spots but they usually do a good job with the blowdowns and such. Only about 2 or three views but the landscapes change frequently and are beautiful. Plus it’s a loop so no car juggling.
Nice one Dan! Could tell part of you wanted to push on but I'm glad you chose the better camp spot. Looking forward to part 2!
Thanks Dave! That’s one of the benefits of hiking a trail several times. For the most part, you know what to expect as far as camp sites. The other site wasn’t bad but this one was better all around.
Footage is looking crisp! Yes follow the directions and read before you go with the packet gourmet meals. Sometimes additional items are necessary.
Thanks! I appreciate that.
All the rain has been rough but you had good weather for day 1. Hope the hand is feeling better.
Thanks! Dreary, wet and cold but hopefully the sun comes out and stays out at least for a while.
Next time you're on the AFT try changing up the route a bit. The other half of the Rock Run trail loop is very nice and connects back to the AFT. There's also a way to stay on Shingle Mill Trail along Black Moshannon Creek for another mile or so upstream before taking an old logging road down to the Red Mo if you're feeling really adventurous.
I do have the rock run loop on my list. I was going to do it earlier in the winter. But I do plan on navigating through the side trails at some point.
good times
I had a lot of fun. 👍
Looking forward to your commentary on clockwise vs. counter-clockwise when you finish. I did it clockwise a few years ago and we're thinking about doing it again this fall.
If you go CCW the big vistas will be last.
I do talk about it toward the end of the trip. To be honest, it is beautiful and great either way you go. I did it in 2019 at the peak of the leaves changing. It was absolutely amazing. Great time to do it regardless of direction.
To be honest, I think the creek walks are more beautiful than the views on this trail. The views are good but the creeks just give it a different kind of beauty.
Great video. I dig the hammock setup. The new tarp looks sweet. I was looking at Dutchware's Half-Wit hammock with Hexon 1.0 for a lighter setup.
Thanks Rod! I do have the half wit. This one was the half zipped. A fully netted hammock. To have the halfwit in 1.0 and it had too much stretch for me. I think 1.2 is my limit. At least for comfort. But I do love the half wit. I should have gotten it in 1.2 when I bought it. But this half zipped is great. Very comfortable!
@@backpackingadventures4813 Thanks! I was a bit worried it would be a bit too fragile. I think the one I have is a 40d hex material and doesn't stretch much. Good to know the limit on them. I've been thinking of getting a shorter 10-10 1/2 hammock without much features.. but I think I still need a bit of bug protection so the half-wit looked pretty nice.
@@rodoutdoors the weight limit of the 1.0 is 200lbs and that is breaking strength NOT comfort. That is the one difference with Dutchware where their weight limits are breaking strength not comfort. A different example is Dream Hammocks weight limits are comfort so the breaking limit is higher. It’s not a big deal as long as you know what the weight rating means for each company.
I live about a mile from the AFT so I hike it often. I think that going CCW is best if you have never hiked it since the big vistas are last rather than first.
Interesting you said about how you roll your ankles often. I do also and have never had an injury from it. My friend calls be rubber ankles lol.
I think I prefer clockwise on this trail. It might be because I’ve done it clockwise 4 times as opposed to just twice counter clockwise.
Yeah, so I was hiking with Dakota and he referred to my ankles as rubber. I’m hoping that’s a good thing since I haven’t snapped anything yet. lol.
Dan. Great video. Being from NW PA and an avid backpacker, I really enjoy all your PA trail journeys. You always do a nice job editing with great shots. This is the first time I have heard of the AFT. It looks like a great 2 day hike. Thanks!!......Hey, where did you get that ball cap? I really like the mountain on the front. Hike on!!
Thanks! I really appreciate it. The AFT is a great trail. Not easy but not crazy hard either. Very beautiful. My hat is from the company Burton. I was getting one them on Amazon but for some reason they are unavailable. They do have a gray one. The one in this video I got a few weeks ago but I ordered it from the Burton website. But they only had like two colors. They used to have tons of options. They still have other hats but the one with their mountain logo is very limited. Looks like it may be discontinued soon.
Great video as always. Waiting for part 2. What is the best water filter system you like to use. Still gathering gear.
Thanks! Not sure it is the best of all because I haven’t tried them all but I really like the Platypus Quick Draw. Much faster flow rate, no O ring to worry about falling out, don’t slow down as fast overtime like the sayer, no back flushing needed, and sealable caps. The only downside is it filters less overall than the Sawyer Squeeze. It I did the math and it would take me close to 4 years at the frequency I hike every year to hit it and I replace my filters regularly anyway so it isn’t a concern to me. Plus, I found the Sayer slows to a crawl within a relatively low amount of use. I also like it better than the BeFree. I went through like 4 of them in a year because it slowed down way too much. And, where I hike, the water isn’t really dirty as far as actual particles like dirt.
@backpackingadventures4813 oh ok thanks for the reply, very informative. I been gathering gear the past 2 years just so my kids and I can go on 2 day hikes or weekend hikes. Work is demanding and I don't get to much time for multi-day hikes. I just picked up a 60 liter klymit pack brand new for 50 bucks from a good friend.
I definitely enjoy your videos, and that you hike trails that are near where we live. So many good trails around. It'll take me years to hike them all. Thanks again
As allways great video and a great trail is that campsite along 6 mile run I recognize it I think but can’t place it I live 15 minutes from the aft and spend a good bit of time on it
Thanks William! Yep. That’s along 6 mile run. Pretty much the nicest spot, I feel, on the trail. If you are going counter clockwise it is at mile 23 and mile 19 if going counter clockwise.
@@backpackingadventures4813my favorite campsite is along Benner run just above the black moshannon creek in the pines
@@williamdunlap865I’ll have to look for it on my next go-around.
Hey Dan, I think you’ve mentioned this before, but out of your regular go to trails, would you say this one is the easiest? And then, I’d like to hear which direction is easier but I can wait for Part 2. Loved the beaver tree!
Hi Deb! Of my go to trails I would say this is one of the easiest. It’s hard to do a one to one comparison because of the length. To me, the West rim trail is relatively easy but it’s also 12 miles shorter. But, to me, the AFT is pretty easy . It is rocky though. I think clockwise was easier.
I’ve fallen every time I’ve been on the AFT.
It’s pretty rocky and technical. I fall on almost every trail. lol. But this one I actually got hurt. Could have been worse.