As temperatures cool and snow falls, serene countryside and old-growth forest are echoes of prehistoric peace. Cozy up in a cabin, cross-country ski, or skate wild ice. This winter, create your calm in Clarion County.
We’ll let you in on a secret: Winter along the Clarion River is often considered one of the best times to experience its peaceful beauty and spot rare, unique wildlife you won’t see during the summer months. With around 50 species already documented along the National Wild & Scenic Clarion River, the landscape transforms into a serene sanctuary for nature lovers.
And Cook Forest? It’s so breathtakingly unique, standing as one of the top destinations to visit in Northwestern Pennsylvania.
Explore the Scenic Beauty
Nearly four miles of the Clarion River flow through the park, offering stunning views of the valley. Visitors can explore approximately 24 miles of the river across Clear Creek and Cook Forest State Parks and the Clarion Riverlands.
The riverbanks also offer a glimpse into history. Since the Clarion River was once a vital transportation route, remnants of past settlements can still be seen along the shoreline. The most notable signs of this history come from the logging era, with bracket dams and log landings still visible today.
Winter Adventures at Cook Forest State Park
Cook Forest State Park offers a variety of outdoor winter activities along the Clarion River, but before you plan to head out, please make sure you read the park’s ice safety guidelines, and DCNR’s winter report to confirm available activities, snowfall, ice depth, and more.
Cross Country Skiing, Snow Shoeing and Hiking
Park trails are open for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and hiking. Please check the trail difficulty rating before adventuring on the trails.
Cross-country skiing is recommended on selected trails. Cook Forest has three groomed trails:
- Fire Tower Road
- Toms Run Road
- Part of Forest Drive
Buy your skiing tickets from the park office, and gear rentals are available at Cooksburg Dry Goods Gift Shop.
Sledding
A slope is available for sledding near the Henrys Run Day Use Area. The parking area is 0.9 mile southeast (upstream) of the Route 36 Cooksburg Bridge along River Road.
Ice Skating
A lighted ice skating area is along River Road. The parking area is 0.9-mile southeast (upstream) of the Route 36 Cooksburg Bridge.
Ice thickness is not monitored. For your safety, make sure ice is at least 4” thick for a single skater and 7” thick for a small group.
Wildlife Watching
Possible sightings include: Otters, black bear, deer, bald eagle, muskrat, merganser, great blue heron, wild turkey, roughed grouse and more…
Check out our events calendar to find guided tours and hikes.
Scenic Drive
If you’re passing through, why not take a scenic detour along Cook Forest’s River Drive? Enjoy breathtaking views, and you might get lucky enough to spot an otter swimming in the water or a bald eagle soaring overhead. You never know!
Plan Your Cozy Winter Getaway
Looking for the perfect winter escape? Take advantage of these exclusive winter lodging deals:
- Cabins at Cook Forest: Enjoy 20% off when booking Cook Riverside cabins from January 2 to April 30.
- Top Hill Cabins: Book a stay between January 3 and March 31, and receive your 3rd night free with a 3-night reservation.
- Foxburg Inn Hotel: Save 10% on a 2-night stay, 15% on a 3-night stay, or 20% on stays of 4 nights or more when booking directly through their website.
Don’t miss the chance to experience the serene beauty and rich history of the Clarion River this winter. Plan your trip today and create unforgettable memories!