COOK FOREST
Referred to as the “Black Forest” of Pennsylvania, Cook Forest is known for its breathtaking natural beauty. Many have long made the journey to experience its enchanting trails and ride upon the sparkling waters of nearby Clarion River. Once you've been here, you'll understand why others keep coming back.
“I hear the sounds of the forest, the call of the warbler, the creak of a tree trunk against a fallen comrade in the wind, the rustle of leaves from an undetectable creature in a nearby rhododendron thicket. A wonderful piney aroma reaches deep into my soul to create an almost alarming awareness of textures and the incredible sensations of being in an ancient forest."
-Anthony Cook
“The Cook Forest, An Island in Time”
ACTIVITIES IN COOK FOREST
HIKING
One of the best ways to experience Cook Forest is by foot. Hike some of its 30 miles of trails and take in the natural beauty of an old growth forest with its hemlock and rare virgin white pine. Stop at the Park Office,located just one-fourth of a mile from the Lodge, and get a detailed trail map and suggestions from park staff.
FISHING
The Clarion River flows along the Park border and provides great fishing for trout, warm water game fish and panfish. Check out the Gateway Lodge Cabins for specials at the beginning of trout season.
CANOEING, KAYAKING AND INNER-TUBING
One of the best views of the forest is from the Clarion River. Rentals are available in the Cooksburg area. Ask Gateway Lodge for more information and about their special riverside picnics for groups of 12 or more.
HORSEBACK RIDING
Ride the trails at a relaxing pace, Cook Forest’s stables offer horseback riding for all ages and experience levels.
BUMPER BOATS, GO-CARTS, MINIATURE GOLF, AND MORE…
Yes, Cook Forest has some fun in store for the young and young at heart.
PHOTOGRAPHY
Cook Forest offers plenty of scenery to “focus” on. In fact, it could take weeks to fully capture the essence of Cook Forest’s wildlife, vegetation, fungi, trails, trees, rocks, and scenic vistas. Be sure to stop by the Kaltenbaugh Photography Gallery to view Kevin Kaltenbaugh’s beautiful images of the forest; just minutes away from the Lodge.
POTTERY
Salem Stoneware is one of our favorite places to send guests. See pottery being made first-hand by this family-run business, and have the opportunity to purchase stoneware in their gift shop.
EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS
During the summer you can take advantage of “environmental interpretive programs” presented every Friday and Saturday night (subject to change) by the Park Service. Trail walks are also held during the summer season. A weekly interpretive schedule is available at the park office.
COOK FOREST SAWMILL THEATER FOR THE ARTS
Dedicated to preserving traditional arts and crafts, the Sawmill Center offers art workshops and holds theatrical performances throughout the summer. Go to http://www.sawmill.org for more information.
COOK FOREST FIRE TOWER / SENECA POINT OVERLOOK
The 80 foot tower, built in 1929, gave firefighters a 20 mile view of the area. The tower retired from service in 1966, and now offers visitors one of the best scenic views of the forest. When you’re at the very top, try to spot the Gateway Lodge. It’s the only building in view.
LOG CABIN INN
Visit Cook Forest’s environmental learning center. Adjacent to the Longfellow trail, it contains a variety of displays, taxidermy animals, and logging tools from early lumbering days.
WINTER ACTIVITIES
Cook Forest is just as beautiful in the winter as it is in other seasons (some might argue more!) The park has a lighted ice-skating pond near River Road, 10 acres of sledding slopes, and three designated cross-country ski trails with an equipment rental facility.
Image at the top courtesy of Kevin Kaltenbaugh