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    Backpacking

    The 36-mile long Gerard Hiking Trail encompasses the entire park. The main trail is marked with yellow paint blazes. For shorter day hikes, use the five connecting loops blazed in white. Scenic vistas, waterfalls, and historic sites are prevalent along the trail.

    Parking areas are available at several access points.

    Two overnight, hike-in shelter areas (Cow Run and Wolfkiel Run) are along the trail. Each area contains:

    • Tent sites
    • Six Adirondack-style shelters with fireplaces
    • Restrooms
    • Seasonal water supply

    Camping is permitted in shelter areas only. Other special regulations pertain to these areas. A fee and reservations are mandatory for use of these areas and overnight usage is limited to one night per shelter site.

    Fires are only permitted in camp stoves, fireplaces, or designated locations and must be extinguished when unattended. Standing timber and shrubs must not be defaced.

    Pets are permitted at the shelter areas. Please contact the park office for guidelines for pets.

    Instructions for Making a State Park Backpacking Reservation (PDF)

    Organized Group Tenting

    Organized groups can rent a rustic camping area in Wildcat Hollow or behind the warming hut.

    Each area has:

    • Nearby parking
    • Picnic tables
    • Fire circle
    • Composting toilets
    • Seasonal water, but no showers
    • Adirondack shelters

    Each camp can accommodate up to 25 people.

    Call the park office for accommodations for larger groups.

    Advance reservations are required.