Carpets of bluebells in the forest in April are what drew us to Lapidum Rock Run Loop in Susquehanna State Park, and it did not disappoint. It was so deeply undisappointing that we plan to return next April. Only half the loop is bluebell-laden. Consider doing an out-and-back on the half of the loop that is closer to the shore.
Max elevation: 343 ft
Min elevation: 14 ft
Total climbing: 2018 ft
Total descent: -2016 ft
Average speed: 2.47 mi/h
Total time: 04:32:07
There is a porta potty up the hill from the parking lot, should you require it.
Head up an unlikely looking street from the parking lot. There is a path on the left side of the street, which then crosses street to plunge into the woods. You could just walk up the street. Head off to the right, and start by crossing a stream. There are reasonable stepping stones.
Next, say hello to your favorite wood nymph.
Don’t forget to admire those bluebells, that’s why we came!
The woods are carpeted with them.
Obligatory feet.
Hike on a cool, breezy day, and don’t forget to forest bathe.
After the Bluebell Wonderland, the terrain changes a lot.
1.7 miles from the trailhead at the mill, along the river, is Deep Park Picnic Ground, with a big parking lot, picnic benches, and portapotties.
3.7 miles from the trailhead is a grassy meadow where we ate lunch in the shade. And then walked in an unshaded grassy meadow for like ever (0.9 miles). This portion would be terrible in the summer.
The field eventually gives out, and the woods return.
The trees become aggressive about eating signs.
Stats
| Distance | 7.8 miles |
| Elevation Gain | 1138 feet |
| Moving Time | 3 hours, 50 minutes |
| Total Time | 4 hours, 27 minutes |
| Average Pace | 34 minutes per mile / 2 mph |
Equipment
| Pack | CamelBak Aventura hydration pack |
| Navigation | Phone 6 with AllTrails Pro |
| Shoes | Hoka One One Speedgoat 4 Gore Tex trailing running shoes |
| Used Poles? | No |
| Clothes | Socks: Injinji Trail Midweight Mini Crew Toesocks Gaiters: Outdoor Research Thru lightweight summer gaiters Bottom: cotton capri tights Shirt: short sleeve wicking tee Shirt: long sleeve wicking tee |
Recording
https://www.alltrails.com/explore/recording/lapidum-rock-run-loop-fe709c6
See my current gear, clothing, and thoughts about it on the Hiking Gear page.