Kirkridge Shelter

Kirkridge Shelter is a distinguished and strategically located campground and hiker’s haven nestled along the iconic Appalachian Trail (AT) in Bangor, Pennsylvania. Perched atop the rugged Kittatinny Ridge, this site is widely recognized by the local hiking community and long-distance backpackers as a critical resting point. For residents of Pennsylvania, it represents a rugged escape into the heights of the Pocono Mountains, offering a unique perspective of the Lehigh Valley and the distant Delaware Water Gap. The shelter itself is noted for its sturdy construction and scenic positioning, providing a vital sanctuary for those navigating the notoriously rocky terrain of Eastern Pennsylvania, often referred to by hikers as "Rocksylvania."

The site serves as a bridge between the deep wilderness of the ridge and the accessibility of the surrounding Northampton County. Whether you are a local day-hiker looking for a picturesque lunch spot or a thru-hiker making your final push toward the New Jersey border, Kirkridge Shelter provides a well-maintained and welcoming environment. The atmosphere is one of shared adventure and rustic simplicity, where the natural sounds of the wind through the pines replace the hum of suburban life. Managed with a focus on preservation and hiker safety, it stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of the Appalachian Trail system within the Keystone State.

Location and accessibility are central to the appeal of Kirkridge Shelter. Situated in Bangor, PA, the site is technically located just off a blue-blazed side trail from the main white-blazed Appalachian Trail. For those traveling by vehicle, the shelter can be approached via Fox Gap at PA Route 191, where a small parking area allows for a relatively short, albeit steep, hike up to the ridge. This proximity makes it one of the more accessible shelters for local Pennsylvanians who wish to experience the AT without committing to a multi-day expedition. Once on the ridge, the trail levels out significantly, leading hikers through a beautiful landscape of ferns and hardwood forests. Its position is also notable for being the last northbound shelter in Pennsylvania, making it a celebratory milestone for those about to cross the Interstate 80 bridge into New Jersey.

The services offered at Kirkridge Shelter are designed to meet the fundamental needs of backcountry campers. While the experience is primitive, the presence of specific infrastructure makes it a much more comfortable choice than "stealth" camping in the woods. These services are maintained by dedicated volunteers and trail clubs, ensuring that the facility remains clean and functional for the thousands of visitors it receives each year. For Pennsylvanians planning a visit, understanding these available resources is key to a successful mountain overnight.

• A solid stone-walled shelter capable of sleeping approximately eight to ten hikers comfortably.
• Dedicated flat tent sites surrounding the shelter, ideal for those who prefer more privacy.
• A well-maintained privy (backcountry outhouse) located a short distance from the sleeping quarters.
• A seasonal water spigot located nearby, often provided through the generosity of the neighboring Kirkridge Retreat Center.
• Picnic tables that serve as a central hub for cooking, eating, and organizing gear.
• A registry logbook where guests can record their journeys and share trail updates.
• Sturdy trees throughout the area that are perfectly spaced for hammock camping enthusiasts.

Features and highlights of the Kirkridge Shelter area go beyond the structure itself. The geographical location on the Kittatinny Ridge provides some of the most stunning vistas in the region. Just a short walk from the shelter, Nelson Vista offers sweeping views toward the south, allowing visitors to see the patchwork of farmlands and forests that define the Pennsylvania landscape. The nearby rocks and open meadows also provide a variety of environments for different camping styles, from sheltered forest sites to breezy, open-air spots. For families and groups, these features make the area a versatile destination for teaching outdoor skills and enjoying the diverse ecology of the Poconos.

• Spectacular scenic overlooks including Nelson Vista and nearby Lunch Rocks.
• Close proximity to the famous Wolf Rocks, a popular destination for rock scrambling and expansive northern views.
• A unique stone-built shelter design that provides superior protection from the wind compared to standard wooden lean-tos.
• Abundant wildlife viewing opportunities, including hawks and eagles soaring along the ridge currents.
• Easy access to the Great Walk, a side trail leading toward local spiritual and historical landmarks.
• A clean and orderly environment that prioritizes the "Leave No Trace" ethics of the hiking community.
• Integrated fire rings at designated tent sites for safe and controlled evening campfires.

For those looking to coordinate a visit or check on current trail conditions, local hiking clubs and AT conservancy groups are the best points of contact. It is specifically important to verify the status of the water spigot during the shoulder seasons (spring and fall), as the supply is seasonal and can be turned off during freezing temperatures. The shelter is located within the Appalachian National Scenic Trail corridor, which is a unit of the National Park Service.

Address: Appalachian Trail near Fox Gap, Bangor, PA 18013, USA

Inquiries: Contact the Appalachian Trail Conservancy or the Wilmington Trail Club for maintenance and water status updates.

What is worth choosing Kirkridge Shelter for is its unrivaled position as a gateway to the Delaware Water Gap. It is worth choosing if you want to experience the classic "Rocksylvania" hiking experience with a rewarding "view-per-mile" ratio that is hard to find elsewhere. For local Pennsylvanians, it offers a sense of high-altitude adventure that is easily reachable within an afternoon. The shelter's stone construction provides a cool retreat in the summer and a sturdy windbreak in the autumn, making it a versatile choice for different seasons. Additionally, the sense of community found at Kirkridge—where day hikers from Bangor mingle with weary thru-hikers from across the country—creates a rich, social atmosphere that enhances the outdoor experience.

Choosing Kirkridge also means you are supporting a legacy of conservation. The surrounding land is protected through partnerships with The Nature Conservancy, ensuring that the vistas you enjoy today will remain for future generations. Whether you are looking for a quiet place to hang a hammock and listen to the wind, or a functional basecamp for exploring the high points of the Delaware Water Gap, Kirkridge Shelter provides the essential amenities and the breathtaking backdrop to make your Pennsylvania adventure memorable. Its status as a clean, well-respected, and historically significant site on the Appalachian Trail makes it a top-tier choice for anyone seeking the best of the state's mountain landscapes.