The Allegheny Ridge

The crest of the Allegheny Front, which is a ridge separating the Ridge and Valley section of Pennsylvania from the Allegheny Plateau, can be seen from the viewing point. To the south can be seen farmlands atop low hills and, in the distance, the first of many ridge-lines throughout central Pennsylvania. To the north, where the Loyalsock Trail would take us, is the more rugged and varied terrain of the Allegheny Plateau. At another viewing point along this ridge, I was walking down to a rock with some exposed views and heard a low buzzing sound. At first, I ignored the sound, thinking it was a humming bug, but then saw movement in the leaves a few yards in front of me. It was a rattlesnake hiding behind a tree and under the leaves rattling at me. I could only see a few inches of him, but knew by the size, color, and sound to the buzz what it was and quickly left the area. (August 1, 2008)