Piazza Rock

If hikers choose, they have the option to engage in some beginner bouldering and make their way up to the top of the rock. Once on top, the hiker encounters a unique, miniature alpine zone.

The Piazza Rock Caretaker is fortunate to encounter all abilities of hikers at this site, and has many opportunities to speak with visiting overnight camps and college orientation groups about the Leave No Trace philosophy.

Piazza Rock sits at the base of the majestic Saddleback Mountain Range. More experienced hikers will pass through the Piazza Rock site focused on the summit of Saddleback Mountain, a 4,130' summit, or the Horn, a 4,041' summit beyond.

The Piazza Rock Caretaker is also responsible for ridge-running across some of the most physically strenuous and visually stunning miles on the Appalachian Trail. The location of the tent platform offers the caretaker a certain degree of privacy and a comfortable, quiet place at the end of the day.

"Piazza Rock is a magical place. There were many days when I spent hours perched on top of Piazza Rock. It was the perfect place to talk to folks about Leave No Trace. I've met some of the most interesting people from all over the country. I met people who had never hiked a day in their lives, and then I met people who make an annual hike up Saddleback Mountain. To wake up in the woods and fall asleep to the sound of a brook is very special. Spending those months at Piazza Rock has really made me feel as if I have had a positive impact on the outdoor community." --Sarah Herdan, Piazza Rock caretaker (2003 and 2004)