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Elk State Forest adventures

Elk State Forest Adventures

Elk State Forest, located in north-central Pennsylvania, offers a vast landscape of outdoor activities amid dense woodlands and diverse wildlife habitats.

200,000+
Acres Protected
200+
Miles of Trails
50,000+
Annual Visitors
1913
Year Established

About Elk State Forest

Elk State Forest
 

Elk State Forest spans over 200,000 acres in the scenic region of north-central Pennsylvania. Managed by the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, this forest is named for the once-extinct Eastern elk, which was successfully reintroduced and now thrives in the area. Geographically, the landscape of Elk State Forest is dominated by rolling hills, dense woodlands, and crucial watersheds, including the headwaters of Sinnemahoning Creek. Historically, the area holds significance for its logging past, which has since transformed into a conservation-focused recreation area. Visitors have the opportunity to engage in a variety of outdoor pursuits, from hiking extensive trails that weave through mixed hardwood forests to wildlife viewing, specifically of the iconic elk. Recreational activities such as camping, hunting, and fishing are popular, with designated areas and resources available for enthusiasts. Notable landmarks include the Elk Country Visitor Center, which offers educational exhibits and viewing platforms, and the serene vistas of the Sizerville and Sinnemahoning regions, presenting unrivaled natural beauty and solitude.

Highlights

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Winslow Hill Elk Viewing Area

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Elk Country Visitor Center

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Sinnemahoning State Park

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Bennett Branch Valley

Notable Natural Features

Elk Country Visitor Center

This center offers educational exhibits and an opportunity to learn about elk conservation.

Sinnemahoning Creek

A key waterway hosting angling opportunities and picturesque views.

Bucktail Overlook

A scenic viewpoint providing expansive vistas of the surrounding forested valleys.