Slip away for the day — or a weekend — for an unforgettable hiking adventure at Cook Forest State Park. Hidden within the 8,500-acre state park, Forest Cathedral Natural Area boasts a spectacular display of hemlock and pine trees, some 200 feet tall. Embark on one of these hiking trails in Pennsylvania to experience the National Natural Landmark for yourself.
Several hiking trails in Cook Forest lead hikers through the Forest Cathedral Natural Area. The protected natural landmark allows only hikers along its trails.
Flickr/Doug Butchy
Looking for an easy yet scenic hike? Toms Run or Birch Trail promise the easiest hiking. A flat path and a swinging footbridge highlight Toms Run, an easy hike of only .08 of a mile.
Flickr/Mary L.
Birch Trail is just a bit longer at .09 of a mile. Also one of the easiest hikes through the Forest Cathedral Natural Area, Birch Trail offers views of birch trees and the Children’s Fishing Pond.
Trip Advisor/246 Paul
For a bit of a challenge, head out on one of the longer, more difficult hiking trails that pass through the Natural Area. The Longfellow Hiking Trail, for example, spans 1.2-miles and it’s…
Flickr/yayad
One of Cook Forest’s most popular trails. Stop to admire the highlight of the trail: a 185-foot white pine tree.
All Trails/Ashley Bone
Stay on the Longfellow Trail for the entire length. Or, meander off onto the .03 mile Ancient Forest Trail. The challenging trail provides unparalleled views of “the highest concentration of tall, old growth white pines in the Northeastern United States.”
All Trails/Ashley Bone Click here to read more from the DCNR of PA.
If you’re really up for a challenge, embark on one of the most difficult hiking trails through the Forest Cathedral. The one-mile Indian Trail, known for its steepness, passes a pond and through Eastern White Pines from the 1800’s.
All Trails/Ashley Bone
Cook Forest State Park is open all year round from sunrise to sunset. (Camping is also permitted.)
All Trails/Ashley Bone
Address:
Flickr/Doug Butchy
Flickr/Mary L.
Trip Advisor/246 Paul
Flickr/yayad
All Trails/Ashley Bone
Click here to read more from the DCNR of PA.
Cook Forest State Park 113 River Road Cooksburg, PA 16217 Click here for more information.
Have you ever hiked along these hiking trails in Pennsylvania? Which was your favorite way to experience the Forest Cathedral Natural Area? Click here to read about 10 other amazing hiking trails in Pennsylvania.
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.
