Monroe County High Point Trip Report

Date: February 24, 2000
Author: Michael Schwartz

Kistler Ledge (spot elevation 2,215+ ft)

Take PA 423 five miles NE from I-380 to the junction with PA 196. There is safe parking in an electrical substation driveway just north on 423.

Cross 196 and bushwhack NW toward high ground. Kistler Ledge really does have a rocky ledge and a nice scramble up and through boulders to the flat summit. After topping the ledge, the hike to highest point stays close to the ledge drop off.

Dresser Hill (2,200+ ft)

From the 423/196 junction, go south 0.4 miles on 196 to a left turn into a housing development. This is Overlook Drive, with the first sign 200 feet uphill. Go 0.3 miles on Overlook to left at Winding Way. Go 0.3 miles on Winding Way to left at Fairhaven. Take Fairhaven 0.2 miles to left at Highview Terrace. Take Highview 0.2 miles to water tower.

The ground has been disturbed, and the current highest point is a few yards from the tower. The fence around the tower had an unlocked gate.

Pimple Hill (2,212 ft)

Off PA 115 about 5 miles south of I-80, look for a good dirt road signed for "State Forest Fire Tower Pohopoco." Drive 0.6 miles to summit, which has parking, rest rooms, the fire warden's house, and the friendliest dog in Pennsylvania. A sign identifies the area as the highest accessible area in Monroe County, hedging on claiming to be the absolute highest. Fire tower is a tall one, 80 feet, with super view, including Pocono International Raceway, only two miles away. Interestingly, a sign near the tower is labeled, "highest point 2213'."

Could not find bench marks due to snow cover. It should also be noted that there is no mention of "Pimple Hill" anywhere on the mountain -- no surprise with such a terrible name.