Discover the beauty of fall foliage at Tracy Ridge in the Allegheny National Forest on this unforgettable backpacking adventure. This trip offers a chance to experience the vibrant autumn colors along the scenic Kinzua Reservoir while exploring the renowned “Solitude Trail” as described by the North Country Trail Association.

• Friday: Hike approximately 7.5 miles to our first campsite.
• Saturday: Cover 5.0 miles to reach Camp 2.
• Sunday: Complete the journey with a 4.0-mile hike back.

With a total distance of 16.5 miles, this moderate trip is perfect for backpackers seeking both a challenge and breathtaking scenery. Get ready for an immersive fall adventure in one of Pennsylvania’s most beautiful landscapes!

What’s included:

• Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
• Food storage (bear food bag hang)
• Group camp gear (stoves, water purification, and first aid)
• Camp site permits
• Licensed, insured NYS Guide

What’s not included:

• Individual camping gear (backpacking-sized tents, sleeping bags, sleeping pads)*
• All snacks
• Transportation to trailhead
• Gratuity for your guides

*If you need gear, please let us know, we can help with rentals.

Here is a sample itinerary of the trip:

Pre-Trip (Zoom)

• 10 Essentials
• Backpacking gear list
• Meal and snack selection
• Trip plans and itinerary
• Review concerns (pre-existing health conditions, special needs, allergies)
• Answer questions

First Day (approx 7.5mi)

• Meet at trailhead (If you are on time, you are late!)
• Introductions
• Distribute group gear
• Check personal gear, supplies, adjust backpacks & make final plans
• Begin hiking
• Learn and discuss basic land navigation, water treatment, and first aid
• Arrive at camp, learn and discuss campsite selection, campsite setup, bear bag hanging, fire starting (if regulations allow)
• Dinner and clean-up
• Campfire and treats
• Personal time/lights out

Second Day (approx 5.0mi)

• Breakfast and clean-up
• Campsite breakdown
• Hike to second campsite with lunch on the trail
• Arrive at camp, more instruction
• Dinner and clean-up
• Campfire and treats
• Personal time/lights out

Third Day (approx 4.0mi)

• Breakfast and clean-up
• Campsite breakdown
• Hike out
• Farewells and decide on next adventure

Trip Notes

This trip demands a high level of physical fitness in order to complete it within the available daylight hours. Outside Chronicles reserves the right to deny participation if group safety will be compromised through an individual’s participation.  Outside Chronicles reserves the right to adjust the trip itinerary to match the skills, abilities, and goals of the group. Prior hiking experience is required. Participants will be screened to make sure they meet a minimum fitness level to make the trip successful and enjoyable.

Good physical condition, proper clothing, proper footwear, and proper equipment are a must.

Cancellation Policy:

A full refund minus the 3% payment processing fee will be given for a cancellation requests prior to the registration deadline (9/1/2026). Payments are NOT refundable past the registration deadline.

A minimum number of participants is required for this trip to run.

The trip is dependent on weather. We will not make you sleep through a thunderstorm if we can avoid it.  The rain date is Oct 17-19.