Trailblazers & Outdoor Explorers Summer Itinerary

Because we know you love to roam free, we’ve skipped the set itinerary and instead gathered activity listings by interest—so you can craft your own perfect getaway.

Woods, water, and wonder for the inner adventurer

Clarion County’s winding rivers, old-growth forests, and scenic trails offer endless opportunities for those who find peace in the pines, adrenaline in the climb, and joy in the journey. We invite you to explore on foot, horseback, bike, boat, and float—each adventure offers a deeper connection to the wild outdoors.

Because we know you love to roam free, we’ve skipped the set itinerary and instead gathered activity listings by interest—so you can craft your own perfect getaway.

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Explore Cook Forest State Park

Cook Forest stands as one of Pennsylvania’s most revered wild and scenic destinations and Clarion County’s top destination. Spanning 8,500 acres of breathtaking natural beauty, this park is home to an ancient forest, diverse wildlife, and the peaceful Clarion River—an oasis of calm and adventure. Check out our first-time visitors guide to Cook Forest, which includes a map and listing of trails with a variety of difficulty levels.

Trails

We’ve got 4 major paved trail systems that run through Clarion County, including 47 miles of 25+ trails that crisscross Cook Forest. With our trail map resources, you’ll only be getting lost on purpose. 

For those who enjoy trails-by-horseback, hop onto the saddle at Silver Stallion Stables.  

Hiking

For those looking for an easier hike, the Black Bear Trail, nearby the Sawmill Center for the Arts, is a great place to search for bear claw footprints along the flat, 1.1-mile loop.

For a standard hike with spectacular history, head along Tom’s Run. The Longfellow Trail is home to the Forest Cathedral, another National Natural Landmark on Clarion County’s long list of historic buildings and well-preserved environmental areas. With towering white pine and Eastern hemlock, the quiet bubble of the stream will guide you along this reflective walk from a shallow swimming pond towards the Swinging Bridge. Intersecting with this is the Ancient Forest Trail, which will lead hikers directly to some of the oldest trees in the state.

Follow the River Trail for a steep and challenging hike alongside Rhododendron bushes, which blossom in the early summer and color the hillside with a vibrant magenta.

The Baker Trail, part of the North Country Trail that spans from North Dakota to Vermont, runs through Cook Forest. You will pass the Forest Cathedral, Seneca Point, Clarion River, and the bracket dam waterfall where Hemlock Island is.

For a comprehensive list of all of Cook Forest’s trails, DCNR organizes all by difficulty level, length, and amenities.

Biking

Visit any one of the paved trails associated with the Redbank Valley Trail, Rail 66, Armstrong Trails, or the Allegheny River Trail. These trails are relatively flat, making for a relaxing walk or bike ride alongside the Allegheny River.

• Redbank Valley Trail features the Climax Tunnel and sculptures along the trail by Massachusetts artist, Dale Rogers.
• Rail 66 is a four-season trail that stretches from Marianne (a village outside of Shippenville), past Cook Forest, through the Allegheny National Forest, and finishes in Kane.
• Armstrong Trails has more than 50 miles of trail connected by the 2,468 foot long Brady Tunnel, originally built in 1915. The East Brady tunnel was recently opened, and we encourage you to check out this beautiful scenic part or the trail by the Allegheny River.
• Allegheny River Trail starts in Erie and continues down to Pittsburgh. Our portion in Foxburg crosses the convergence of the Clarion and Allegheny rivers. Take in the view of Clarion Island and its various islets from afar on the pedestrian bridge crossings as the sun sets.

Water Recreation

Rivers Floats, Kayaks, and Boats

With both the Clarion and Allegheny Rivers, kayaking, canoeing, tubing, and boating from any one of our nine launches makes water recreation attainable from dawn until dusk. The Cook Forest region has multiple access points to the Clarion River, given its shallow depth in this portion of its waters upstream. You can also access the Allegheny River from Foxburg or East Brady. Our rivers are slow and calm. Sit back and relax as you take in the gorgeous scenery. Some folks love to read or sketch while they float, or simply take in the view in all its beauty. You’ll end the day feeling rested, renewed, and ready for your next adventure.  

Don’t own any equipment? There are 4 rental spots to choose from, which are featured on our launch map. Foxburg Tours also has wheelchair accessible pontoon boats for parties that may need it. 

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Sleep and Stay in the Wilds

Wildlife Watching

If you enjoy wildlife watching, each region of the county has something to offer. More specifically, our bird watching community is incredibly active. With various diverse species above and below Interstate 80, you can put your chirp & tweet identification skills to use. 

Stargazing Hotspots
With some of the darkest skies in Pennsylvania, Clarion County is perfect for spotting constellations, meteors, and even the Aurora Borealis. We recommend the Baker Trail trailhead on Old State Road, coming in at 1,900′ elevation or any hill peak in Limestone, coming in at 1,770′ elevation, to stargaze.

Seasonal Events for Explorers

Time your trip with these county-wide favorites:

• Clarion Summer Fest – Family fun with vendors and entertainment along Downtown Clarion’s main street.
• Big Marble Hunt – Explore Downtown Clarion and hunt for locally made marbles.
• Knox Horsethief Days – Outdoor games and live music in the town square.
• Guided Nature Walks & Forestry Programs – Offered by DCNR and the Clarion Conservation District.
• Cook Forest French Indian War Enactment –

If you love to take on your adventures with your dog by your side, our county is incredibly pet-friendly – not only on the trails but at many establishments, like our breweries! 

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Lodging 

Cook Forest Top Hill Cabins, Hemlock Haven Retreats, and Hillside Cabins are a few popular cabin spots in Cook Forest. With the birds chirping, bubbling brooks, and soft breeze, you’ll never want to start your mornings on the porch any other way.

For digital nomads or glampers-at-heart, Rustic Acres RV & Camp Resort is located right outside of 3,000-acres of state game lands with hookups, pull-throughs, luxury camping, and the option for extended stays. Their modern “Hub,” is the perfect gathering space for remote workers and reliable Wi-Fi.  For those that own horses, Cook Forest Scenic Trail Ride also provides the option to hook-up trailers and camp on-site with your favorite, four-legged equines.

Food 

While you’re out and about, refuel with some local flavor! Stop by DB’s Smokin’ BBQ or PA Mushroom Company for a quick fix of delicious dishes, like pulled pork, pizza, or mushroom lo-mein, after a long hike.

Pizza lovers, don’t miss our roundup of the best pizza spots in the area.
Craving something else? Check out our Culinary Delights listings to find your perfect meal.

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Start Planning Your Trip

Whatever your interest, Clarion County is the destination for relaxation and readily available access to nature. Our rolling pastures, 8,500-acres of forest, and two rivers make planning your next trip with your family, significant other, or solo trip a breeze. 

Request a guide 

At 60 pages, our curated spreads feature plenty of ideas and listings to inspire your next trip to Clarion County.  Sign up to receive your copy.

Download our app 

Explore restaurants, shops, lodging and more on Discover Clarion County’s website. Build your next trip itinerary online or download the app on the Apple or Google Play stores.