As many of you have heard, the PA Game Commision has decided to completely close Glen Onoko Falls starting on the 1st of May.

This place has been a place of adventure, joy, and solitude to me and many others. Just a couple weeks ago, I had an engagement session here, and I want to share that with you all.

Carlee and Aaron had no problem strapping on their hiking boots, and neither did myself, my assistant Dan and our favorite videographer Chris as we climbed our way through the mountains and beautiful scenery with over 200 pounds of gear strapped to our backs.

For decades this place has been a trail that should be approached with caution. Numerous lives have indeed been taken, and many injuries over time. I spent part of my summer last year in the Great Smokey Mountains, one of the top 10 deadliest national parks. If my time there taught me anything, it’s that true, pure and seemingly untouched beauty in nature comes at a price. If you aren’t properly equipped, you hike at your own risk.

On our hike, it was obvious this was the case. There are signs everywhere pointing to the danger, including many that are very explicit, with phrases such as “Many have been injured or killed”, and “Dangerous trail ahead”.

Unfortunately, sometimes people choose to ignore their surroundings and sometimes the absence of common sense can cost you your life.

As the five of us hiked through the woods, streams and falls, we could not stop marveling at how amazing it all was. Right in our own back yard, it feels like something I should have to travel through states to get to.

This place is a local treasure, and should not be taken away. Consider writing to those in charge, with a plea to allow hikers to continue to travel at their own risk.

And please, if you’re hiking through mountains and cliffs, don’t wear flip flops.

See you all in the next post.

Be well,

Marshall