The Ancient Forest Near Pittsburgh That's Right Out Of A Storybook
By Beth Price-Williams|Published March 23, 2018
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Beth Price-Williams
Author
A professional writer for more than two decades, Beth has lived in nearly a dozen states – from Missouri and Virginia to Connecticut and Vermont – and Toronto, Canada. In addition to traveling extensively in the U.S. and the U.K., she has a BA in Journalism from Point Park University (PA), a MA in Holocaust & Genocide Studies from Stockton University (NJ), and a Master of Professional Writing from Chatham University (PA). A writer and editor for Only In Your State since 2016, Beth grew up in and currently lives outside of Pittsburgh and when she’s not writing or hanging out with her bunnies, budgies, and chinchilla, she and her daughter are out chasing waterfalls.
Stroll over a charming footbridge, as the sun peeks through the towering trees. Swing your legs into the cool water of the Clarion River as you sit back and admire the forest surrounding you. Or, let the warm breeze glide through your hair during a picnic lunch. Feel as though you’ve stepped onto the pages of a storybook when you visit this forest near Pittsburgh.
Less than two hours from downtown Pittsburgh, Cook Forest State Park provides an idyllic getaway all year around.
Explore the Forest Cathedral Natural Area by embarking on one of several picturesque hikes. Cross a wooden swinging bridge, for example, on the Toms Run Trail.
With 12 miles of the Clarion River running through the forest, water activities are a popular way to spend the day. Go kayaking or canoeing, admiring the scenery as you meander down the river.
Or, embark on a hike that will take you beyond the Forest Cathedral Natural Area. The state park boasts nearly 50 miles of hiking and biking trails that range from easy to very difficult.
What is your favorite thing about this forest near Pittsburgh? Click here to read about Gateway Lodge Restaurant, an enchanting restaurant near Cook Forest State Park.
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