February 20, 2027 (11:30 am - 2:30 pm), Cook Forest State Park
Snowman in The Forest Day
Cook Forest State Park Winter Festival
childhood, sledging and season concept - happy little children sliding on sleds down snow hill in winter over snowy forest or park background
Carriage Rides in Cook Forest
This is a great family event held annually at the Cook Forest Ice Skating Pond along the Clarion River
The festival offers a delightful array of winter activities, including ice skating, sledding, carriage rides, and hiking, ensuring that visitors can fully embrace the beauty of the season.
2027 Schedule & Location:
11:00 AM: Chili Cook-Off (hot and mild divisions, with free public sampling after judging)
11:00 AM – 2:00 PM: Carriage rides, sledding, snowman building, and ice skating (ice skates provided on-site)
12:00 PM – 1:00 PM: Snowshoe interpretive hike through the old-growth forest along the Cook Trail (meeting at the River Pavilion)
1:00 PM: Happy Dog Contest
Warm-ups: Complimentary hot cocoa and coffee provided
2:00 PM: Door prize awards
Build A Snowman
Participants are encouraged to create a snowman at any sponsor’s location, beginning with the first snowfall of the season through the last snowfall in February.
To enter the snowman contest, simply have the sponsor photograph you with your creation, which will be showcased on the Cook Forest Vacation Bureau’s website and Facebook page.
What to Expect?
Dress warmly and get ready for a full day of activities
- A chili cook-off
- Happy dog contest
- Hot cocoa and coffee to keep you warm as you enjoy recreational activities
- You might get lucky and see Smokey the Bear!
...
Photo Credit: Friends of Cook Forest
Great Places to Stay in Cook Forest
Stay near Cook Forest State Park for camping, glamping and cozy cabins surrounded by nature. For convenient access to downtown restaurants and shops, choose a vacation rental in Clarion Borough. You’ll also find several branded hotels and motels near Interstate 80 at Exit 62—a convenient base for exploring Clarion County and attending local events.
Explore places to stay and book your Clarion County getaway.
More Things to do in Cook Forest
While some restaurants and businesses operate seasonally, the forest and Clarion River offer year-round opportunities to enjoy nature. Hike among towering trees, watch for river otters and birding, photograph the changing scenery, or simply enjoy the quiet. When snow arrives, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing offer more ways to explore as conditions allow.
QUICK INFO: Where to rent winter gear? Cooksburg Dry Goods offers snowshoe rentals for $15 and cross-country skis for $10, ice skates $5. Call 814-744-8300.
