JasonACraft, I feel your pain, bro, sorry that you had this setback. It will make the next attempt that much more savoring. I had taken a couple Noobs out for backpacking the weekend of Oct 2-4. We were actually going to Pine Creek Gorge in Pa, the Grand Canyon of Pa. Due to the hurricane that was dumping wet stuff all over that area, we opted to go to Manistee River Trail, and do the loop. It was by far the best consolation one could ever make! Well worth making the change. Like everyone else has said, water up on the NCT side, and look for the really good spots on the very scenic MRT side. I'll see Pine Creek Gorge next year, in the fall, I hope. Until then, stay away from those fast food rot gut stations. and happy hangin!