If you’re looking to truly connect with the outdoors in Cumberland Valley, you’ll find no better place than the Michaux State Forest region. With the help of Purple Lizard Maps, you can explore this expansive landscape in detail. Their Michaux Lizard Map highlights a vast area stretching from Shippensburg to Mount Holly Springs and south to Biglerville and Waynesboro, offering access to miles of hiking and biking trails, scenic overlooks, and unique recreational opportunities. Here’s a suggested 3-mile journey to explore Camp Michaux and Sunset Rocks.
Start Your Adventure
Your adventure begins at the parking area at the intersection of Bunker Hill Road and Michaux Road, just northwest of Pine Grove Furnace State Park. The lot near a historic, crumbling barn wall makes a great starting point. From here, head downhill on a few short paths toward Bunker Hill Road, then follow this quiet gravel road to its intersection with the iconic Appalachian Trail.
Sunset Rocks Trail & Little Rocky Ridge
Once you pick up the Appalachian Trail, you’ll follow the familiar white blazes as the path leads you toward Toms Run. A scenic bridge crossing offers a memorable moment early in your hike. Shortly after, you’ll spot the turnoff for Sunset Rocks Trail, marked by blue blazes and a clear trail sign.
As you continue, the trail gradually climbs toward Little Rocky Ridge. The ascent grows steeper, but the reward is well worth the effort.
The blue-blazed trail leads up to the small saddle of Little Rocky Ridge. Purple Lizard’s Map highlights the trail heading east (right) toward Michaux Road, but you can also turn left (west) to enjoy more vistas along Little Rocky Ridge. If you turn left, the blue blazes continue for a while but eventually end. Exploring on foot is allowed anywhere along this ridge, but be careful not to lose your way, as there are steep cliffs along the ridge’s edges. However, you will be rewarded with sweeping views overlooking Michaux State Forest and Pine Grove Furnace State Park to the southeast.
Keep in mind that this area features rugged terrain, steep drop-offs, and large boulders. Although this section of the trail is only a mile long, it can be slow going because of all the rock-hopping. Most of the steep rock crags can be bypassed by those uncomfortable with rock scrambling, but you may need to take extra care if you’re hiking with children or pets.
Eventually, the ridgeline disappears, and the trail descends, reconnecting with Michaux Road. From there, a short walk north (to the right) brings you back to your starting point.
Extend Your Adventure
If you’re eager to explore more, consider extending your hike by following the western section of Sunset Rocks Trail to Toms Run Shelter. From there, continue north along the Appalachian Trail until it crosses Michaux Road again, then road-walk back to your starting point at the parking lot. This option adds three miles to your trip and offers a deeper look at this renowned trail system.
Step Into History
Before you leave, take some time to explore Camp Michaux, located near the parking area. This site has a rich, layered history, and a self-guided walking tour from the Cumberland County Historical Society can help you uncover its stories.
On your way out, you may also want to stop at the Appalachian Trail Museum in Pine Grove Furnace State Park. Open seasonally starting in April, the museum offers a deeper appreciation of the trail’s history and the hikers who have traveled it.
With scenic overlooks, rugged trails, and fascinating history, this corner of Cumberland Valley invites you to slow down, explore, and experience the landscape in a meaningful way.
Purple Lizard Maps
For more information about Purple Lizard maps and to read additional adventure blogs, go to PurpleLizard.com.
