As Slade from Ohio pointed out in October, the Twin Lakes Trail gets dicier and dicier the closer you get to its western terminus. Where the old path snakes its way across the mountain just east of Brookston, it's mostly overgrown with rose cane and blackberry. Even in November, you have to beat back the jaggers. Long, thick pants are a must. Of course, if you're trying to hike the ANF in your khaki shorts in the month of November, then pardon me for suggesting that you take up mall-walking.Unlike the more easterly segments of the Twin Lakes Trail, which tend to run through nice streams valleys and pass under dense canopy, these neglected western stretches have some elevation and a few decent vistas.
The Brookston Overlook doesn't offer the most striking scenery in the Allegheny, but it is pretty. It's quiet here, hauntingly quiet. The hamlet of Brookston is completely invisible from the hilltop, and all the open space invites backcountry camping. Since overlooks are relatively rare in the southern half of the forest, I'm surprised this one isn't a little better known. There's easy access from FR443 if the gate's open.
