Pittsburgh provides the perfect launching pad for a day trip or a weekend getaway. After all, we’re within easy driving distance of so many small towns and natural wonders in Pennsylvania. Natural beauty abounds at Cook Forest State Park near Pittsburgh, which is also home to breathtaking old growth forest that you really have to see in person to fully appreciate.

About an hour and a half from downtown Pittsburgh, Cook Forest State Park beckons visitors with its sheer natural beauty, its network of hiking trails, and its majestic Forest Cathedral.
Flickr/David Fulmer
A National Natural Landmark, Forest Cathedral is home to a collection of old growth hemlock and forest pine trees, some of which date back an estimated 350 years.
All Trails/Courtney Sue
Historians believe that some of the trees in Cook Forest State Park date back to the mid-1600s. Unfortunately, much of the forest was cut down in the 19th century, when the timber was needed for construction and other industries.
Flickr/Nicholas A. Tonelli
Today, visitors can get a close-up look at the majestic old growth forest by embarking on a leisurely hike that will lead you straight to the Forest Cathedral.
Flickr/David Fulmer

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The Forest Cathedral Trail, rated as moderate, spans just 2.5 miles through the forest and can get really busy, especially during the spring and the summer. Winter tends to be somewhat quieter on the trail.
Flickr/Nicholas A. Tonelli
If you prefer a quick, easy hike, set off on Toms Run Trail, which stretches just .08 of a mile and provides sensational views of the Forest Cathedral.
All Trails/Mike Reizman
Once you’ve visited the Forest Cathedral, explore more of the 8,500-acre park which features more than 50 miles of trails, the Clarion River, and more than 200 camping sites.
All Trails/Ashley Bone
Click here for the official website of Cook Forest State Park.
All Trails/Diane Martin

Have you ever been to Cook Forest State Park near Pittsburgh? What did you think of the old growth forest? Let us know in the comments! If you like discovering historical spots, add Beulah Presbyterian Church, the oldest church in Pittsburgh, to your must visit list.

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Cook Forest State Park, Leeper, PA 16233, USA