At first sight, you wouldn't realize that there was once a bustling industry on the shores of Mountain Spring Lake. Although traces of this activity have been mostly erased by time, some artifacts still remain of the past settlements and the colorful local history of North Mountain.
Concrete pilings for the conveyor structure and foundations for the ice storage buildings can still be seen at the North end of the dam. On the North side of the lake, there is a rail siding where railcars stood, waiting to receive a load of ice for the journey to market. Ice harvesting at Mountain Spring Lake began in the mid 1890's and ceased operations after the 1948 Winter season when demand for natural ice declined due to the advent of regional ice houses using mechanical refrigeration methods.
There are three ways to get to the lake. The old rail bed of the Bowman's Creek Branch is now an ash-surfaced road accessible from PA Rt. 29 in Noxen. The road travels past hunting cabins,lodges and through heavily forested areas that are teaming with wildlife. The road when last traveled is passable by SUV or truck.
Or, you can take Mountain Springs Rd.(shown as Fish Commission Road on the park map)from PA Rt. 487, approximately 5.1 mi. By both routes, watch for the turn to the lake at N 41° 20.792’ W 076° 13.609’, continuing on a Southeasterly bearing. Begin your search from the lake’s parking area at N 41° 20.456’ W 076°13.642’ Elev. 1860 ft.
You can hike in from Lake Jean at Ricketts Glen State Park. Approximately 4-miles one way of moderately difficult, heavily forested but well-blazed, mountain trail. Maps are available at the park office.
The cache is a clear Tupperware container with a white lid. It is marked with “GEOCACHE”, “MOUNTAIN SPRING LAKE SIDING”.
The cache contains: a moisture proof packet containing the Geocache Site Letter; log book with pens and pencils; Ricketts Glen State Park Maps and some distance/degree @ latitude reference charts along with trade items.
The cache is hidden on a commonly used trail. Environmental impact from the placement of this cache is believed to be minimal compared to customary uses permitted. This cache will be checked periodically for adverse environmental impact and managed as necessary.
After the hunt, you may wish to explore further or just enjoy the solitude and beauty of this area. I would suggest a comfortable folding chair, some snacks and lunch, a jug of water and a couple beverages of choice. Binoculars and some fishing gear are appropriate.
“Cache in, trash out.”
Please note, mountain bikes are not permitted on hiking trails at Rickett's Glen State Park.