Many travel experts actually categorize Cook Forest as one of the most underrated nature destinations in Pennsylvania.
Because it is located in the more remote Pennsylvania Wilds, it sees fewer crowds than parks near major hubs, like Philadelphia or Pittsburgh. While this makes for a better visitor experience, it sometimes translates to fewer reviews on sites like TripAdvisor or Yelp, which many “Top 10” lists use for their rankings.
Parks that top mainstream lists often feature “high-action” attractions, like twenty-two waterfalls (Ricketts Glen) or world-class whitewater rafting (Ohiopyle). Cook Forest’s primary draw is its primordial serenity and stands of old-growth forest, which is a “quieter” form of tourism that appeals to hikers, naturalists, and families looking for a peaceful escape.
While it might not always lead a “top 10” blog post, it consistently wins professional and national awards that many other parks do not:
- National Natural Landmark: The Forest Cathedral is federally recognized for its ancient white pines and hemlocks.
- Park of the Year: The Pennsylvania Parks & Forests Foundation named it the 2018 Park of the Year for its stewardship and recreation.
A Legacy of Conservation
The park’s history stretches back to the early 19th century, when pioneering settler John Cook acquired the land. Initially used for logging, the area’s magnificent old-growth trees were heavily harvested. But John’s son, Anthony Cook, recognized the importance of preserving this natural beauty. His efforts laid the foundation for Cook Forest State Park’s creation in 1927. As the first Pennsylvania state park established to protect a natural area, Cook Forest has since earned the distinction of being a National Natural Landmark.
Today, thanks to decades of successful conservation efforts, Cook Forest is a testament to the importance of preserving nature. Its protected status ensures the survival of ancient trees and wildlife, while its transformation into a recreational haven invites visitors to explore both its history and its stunning landscapes.
Read more about Cook Forest’s social & industrial history.
Unforgettable Experiences Along Our Trails
Cook Forest is often called the “Black Forest” of Pennsylvania, renowned for its towering old-growth white pines and hemlocks, some of which are over 300 years old. The park offers a peaceful escape into nature, where visitors can enjoy hiking, paddling, fishing, and more. Here are some must-see attractions:
Forest Cathedral: Wander through this National Natural Landmark, where ancient white pines and hemlocks create a cathedral-like atmosphere. This serene spot offers a glimpse into the old-growth forests that once blanketed the region. Many of these magnificent pine and hemlock trees exceed three feet in diameter with the tallest pines approaching 180 feet.
Fire Tower: Built in 1929, this 87.5-foot fire tower offers panoramic views of the park. The vistas are especially spectacular in autumn when the foliage bursts into vibrant colors.
Seneca Point: Capture stunning views of the Clarion River Valley, particularly at sunset. This scenic overlook is perfect for photography and quiet reflection.
River Road: Take a scenic, leisurely drive along River Road, which runs parallel to the Clarion River. Keep an eye out for wildlife and enjoy peaceful riverside views.
Clarion River Adventures: The 13-mile stretch of the Clarion River within the park is ideal for canoeing, kayaking, and tubing, or simply relaxing along its banks.
Wildlife Watching: Cook Forest is home to diverse wildlife, including bald eagles, black bears, and otters. The park offers plenty of opportunities for nature enthusiasts to spot these majestic creatures.
Sawmill Center for the Arts: A local non-profit organization housed in the historic sawmill offers traditional crafts and and artisan gifts in their store. Demonstrations and classes on various crafts are presented throughout the summer and fall. The Verna Leith Sawmill Theater presents plays, musicals, and other entertainment throughout the summers season. Contact them at 814-927-6655 or visit sawmill.org.
Local Shopping and Wine Tasting: Explore charming local shops offering unique souvenirs and handcrafted goods. Afterward, sample some wine from Allegheny Wine Cellars at Briar Hill Rustic Furniture.
Signature Events and Guided Tours: The park hosts a variety of signature events throughout the year, including the Cook Forest French & Indian War Encampment, Snowman in the Forest Day, and guided tours led by park rangers offer deeper insights into the park’s history, ecology, and wildlife.
Hiking
Clarion County is a paradise for trail enthusiasts, and Cook Forest is one of the area’s standout destinations. Within Cook Forest State Park, you’ll find more than 47 miles of hiking trails and 4.3 miles of multi-use trails. Additionally, the Clarion Riverlands offer another 24 miles of multi-use trails and eight miles of hiking trails, providing endless opportunities to explore the region’s natural beauty.
Here are some of Cook Forest’s popular trails to list a few:
- Baker Trail/North Country National Scenic Trail
- Sensory Trail
- Mohawk Trail
- Cook Trail
- Black Bear Trail
- Seneca Trail
- Longfellow Trail
- Tom’s Run Trail
For comprehensive listing of all the trails including information about distance and difficulty levels, check out the State Park’s website for more information.
Biking
Bikes are permitted on all one-way, dirt roads within the park. A 13-mile bicycle route follows lightly traveled roads within the park and portion of the Hefren Run Trail. Biking on hiking trails is prohibited except on the portion of this route.
Horseback Riding
A loop trail begins at a small parking lot on Forest Drive, connects to Old Logging Road, and winds through beautiful pine plantations. 24-miles of additional trails are located downstream of Gravel Lick Bridge in the Clarion Clarion River Lands .
Kayaking & Canoeing
The Clarion River provides approximately 120 miles of paddling opportunities. Located within the federally designated Wild and Scenic River section, river miles 38-58 are within Cook Forest State Park and the Clarion River Lands. The park provides access to the river with three hand-carry public launches. You will need to purchase launch permits, available at the park office.
Canoes, kayaks and tubes are available for rent from Pale Whale Canoe Fleet in Cooksburg along River Drive.
The Clarion River is a Class 1 river with slower moving water and a few faster riffles and waves. As the water level rises from weather events, the difficulty navigating the river and velocity of the water changes as well. Pale Whale Canoe Fleet usually has constant water condition updates on their Facebook page. River height can be checked at the USGS site.
Motorboats must display a current boat registration. Non-powered boats launched in the park must display on the following: boat registration from any state; launch permit or mooring permit from PA State Parks, available at most state park offices; launch use permit from the PA Fish and Boat Commission.
Cook Forest State Park & Forest Cathedral Maps
For information and maps on trails within Cook Forest, The Cook Forest State Park Trail Guide (PDF) and Clarion River Lands Trail Guide (PDF) provide trail descriptions, maps, emergency information and guidelines. These guides are also available in the park office.
Accessibility in Cook Forest State Park
If you require an accommodation to participate in park activities due to a disability, please contact the park office: cookforestSP@pa.gov or call 814-744-8407.
We highly recommend the Cook Forest Sensory Trail, which is a quarter-mile, paved, self-guided loop customized for individuals with disabilities, including low or limited vision. It features braille/raised letter signage, a guide cable, sturdy benches, and a picnic area at the trailhead. Access to this trail is near the entrance of the Sawmill Center for the Arts.
Lodging
If you’re looking for a place to stay in Cook Forest, you’ll find a variety of options to suit your needs, whether you’re seeking a cozy retreat or a more rustic experience.
- Lodging and Cabins: If you prefer a more spacious, homey experience, you can book a lodge or cabin that accommodates the whole family, including your furry friends. These properties offer a comfortable setting with full amenities, perfect for those who want a balance of nature and comfort.
- Camping: For those who want to immerse themselves in the wilds, Cook Forest offers several camping options:
- Ridge Campground: Located within the park, this campground provides beautiful scenic views and a more natural setting for your stay. Click for for more information, including the campground map.
- Private Campsites: For a more private experience, you can book a site in one of the area’s private campgrounds, giving you the flexibility of being close to nature but with added privacy and amenities. Check out our listings here.
- RV Sites: If you’re traveling with an RV, you’ll find plenty of RV-friendly sites that come equipped with the necessary hookups to make your stay more convenient.
- Equestrian Campsites: For those who wish to camp with horses, Cook Forest Scenic Trail Ride, Dude Ranch, & Campground is your best option with amenities to accommodate both you and your horses, making it a perfect spot for horse enthusiasts. You can also book a scenic trail ride experience – a Cook Forest iconic experience.
No matter your style or preference, Cook Forest has something for everyone—whether you’re seeking a peaceful cabin retreat or a traditional camping experience. Your visit to this majestic forest can be calming and relaxing or adventurous and thrilling, depending on the activities you choose. It’s ready for you to explore!
Historical Significance
Once a bustling center of the lumber industry, Cook Forest today stands as one of Pennsylvania’s most revered wild and scenic destinations. Spanning 8,500 acres of breathtaking natural beauty, this park is home to ancient forests, diverse wildlife, and the peaceful Clarion River—an oasis of calm and adventure.
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