From Georgia to Maine, hikers traveling on the Appalachian Trail pass through this neck of the woods in the Keystone State. Many of the hikers also use nicknames related to the trails.
"I've got a little ways to go before I get to the Delaware Water Gap, and I've enjoyed Pennsylvania, and I love the history, but I'll be glad to see it in my rearview," said a hiker nicknamed "Slide Rule" from Florida.
Along the trail in Washington Township near Palmerton, a shocking discovery was made.
The Pennsylvania Game Commission says that on Sunday, dog treats stuffed with metal fish hooks were discovered by a hiker on part of the trail near the George W. Outerbridge Shelter on the North Trail Loop.
Now, signs are posted along the trail warning hikers.
"I don't know why someone would do that, what the purpose is, but it's really sick," said a hike nicknamed "Miss Pacman" of Chicago.
"That's just mean. The dog doesn't know any better. There's something to eat. That's just terrible," said 'Slide Rule."
Hikers say along with the signs, word is spreading, which is making this the talk of the trail.
"It's a shame that anyone would think about doing that, and I was hoping that maybe it was an accident and someone like a fisherman dropped something, but from what I'm hearing, it doesn't sound like it was an accident," said a hiker nicknamed "Operator" from Delaware.
Hikers on the Appalachian Trail say they see plenty of dogs along their travels, but now they worry these treats could be harmful to wildlife.
"It could definitely affect the wildlife around here. There are already some endangered species in this area; it's just disrespectful and doesn't make a lot of sense," said Miss Pacman.
Officials with the Game Commission say this type of discovery warrants criminal charges if those responsible are caught.
"I would think it's going to be very difficult to catch them. I don't know how you would," said Operator.
Anyone with information about the incident is asked to call the Pennsylvania Game Commission at 1-888-PGC-WILD or 1-888-PGC-HUNT immediately.