The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Jefferson County

From the trailhead sign: The Forest Cathedral Natural Area contains one of the largest old growth forests of white pine and eastern hemlock in Pennsylvania. Many of these magnificent pine and hemlock trees now exceed three feet in diameter and approach 200 feet in height. Trees of this size are often over 300 years of age; dating to the era of William Penn, the first Governor of "Penn's Woods", and are often referred to as "William Penn Trees". It is perhaps fitting that this forest remains in the midst of an area which saw the greatest logging boom in the history of the Commonwealth - the period of the late 1800s, when thousands of acres of old growth forests were cut for the shipbuilding and constructions industries. The Forest Cathedral is registered as a National Natural Landmark and has been set aside for protection as a State Park Natural Area.

The Forest Cathedral Natural Area contains one of the largest old growth forests of white pine and eastern hemlock in Pennsylvania. Many of these magnificent pine and hemlock trees now exceed three feet in diameter and approach 200 feet in height. Trees of this size are often over 300 years of age; dating to the era of Wiilliam Penn, the first Governor of "Penn's \Voods", and are often referred to as "William Penn Trees". It is perhaps fitting that this forest remains in the rnidst of an area which saw the greatest logging boom in the history of the Commonwealth - the period of the late 1800s, when thousands of acres of old growth forests were cut for the shipbuilding and constructions industries. The Forest Cathedral is registered as a National Natural Landmark and has been set aside for protection as a State Park Natural Area.

Cook Forest State Park cover 8,500 acres and protects some of Northwestern Pennsylvania's last remaining old growth forests. The Forest Cathedral section of hemlock and white pines is a National Natural Landmark. The park has miles of hiking trails, campgrounds, and access to the Clarion River.

Historically, this creek powered mills and industries, contributing to the area's growth. Today, it remains a valuable resource, supporting aquatic life and providing recreational opportunities for residents and visitors alike. Its winding path offers scenic beauty.

While the Baker Trail is a much longer route stretching across Pennsylvania, its segment near Mahoning Creek Lake provides a taste of its allure. This section of the trail is known for its serene atmosphere, winding through wooded areas and offering glimpses of the lake.

The dam impounds Mahoning Creek, forming Mahoning Creek Lake. Beyond its flood control function, the dam underwent a retrofit in 2012, enabling it to generate approximately 6 megawatts of hydroelectric power.

One of the areas with old White Pine growth in Cook Forest.

The central square in Punxsuatawney where the groundhog is questioned on February 2nd. Phil's stable is on the edge of the square and can be visited.