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Best Hiking Trails in Cook Forest


Located in northwestern Pennsylvania, Cook Forest State Park is considered one the most beautiful state parks in the country. The vast old growth forests found in the park are one of the primary reasons for its popularity. Another reason is the portion of the Clarion River that passed through the park.

Cook Forest State Park has over 47 miles of hiking trail and almost five miles of multi-use trails. Another 32 miles of trails can be found close by in the Clarion River Lands. Two major northeast trails, Baker Trail and North Country Trail, also run through the park lands.

Below, we've listed some of our favorite Cook Forest State Park hiking trails. You can find more information at alltrails.com, https://www.dcnr.pa.gov/StateParks/FindAPark/CookForestStatePark/Pages/Hiking.aspx  and the Cook Forest Conservancy site. Or, give us a call. We'll be glad to answer any questions you have about Cook Forest State Park and the many hiking trails within the park. 

Joyce Kilmer Trail


Length: 1.1 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
The Joyce Kilmer Trail runs from Cemetery Road to the Indian Trail. Along the way, you'll wind through virgin white pines and ancient hemlocks, and see unusual rock formations. Birch and Rhododendron are also scattered along the trail.

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Ancient Forest Trail


Length: 0.3 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Ancient Forest Trail is a short trail that cuts across the Longfellow Trail. You'll get a fantastic view of massive, old-growth white pines on this trail.

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Cook Trail


Length: 2.2 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Cook Trail is a relatively popular trail near Cooksburg, Pennsylvania. The trail forms a loop that starts near Henry's Run. Cook Trail has a number of interpretive signs along the way. You'll get to see American Chestnuts on this trail.

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Longfellow Trail


Length: 1.2 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Longfellow Trail is probably the most popular trail in Cook Forest. The trail begins near Log Cabin Environmental Learning Classroom. The trail runs through the Forest Cathedral. You'll see some of the oldest, and largest, trees in North America. Some trees are over 300 years old, one impressive white pine is over 185 feet tall.

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Indian Trail


Length: 1.7 miles
Difficulty: Difficult
Indian Trail is a steep trail that runs from the Children's Fishing Pond to the Longfellow Trail. Along the way, the trail runs deep into the Forest Cathedral. You'll be treated to fantastic views of Eastern white pine, and second-growth hemlock and white pine.

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Forest Cathedral Trail


Length: 2.5 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Forest Cathedral Trial is a very popular trail and for good reason. The trail features massive white pines and beautiful hemlocks. Designated as a National Natural Landmark, the trail is located near Leeper, Pennsylvania. It's used by hikers and runners. Forest Cathedral Trial is accessible year-round.

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Mohawk Trail


Length: 1.4 miles
Difficulty: Difficult
Mohawk Trail starts near the Inn at Cook Forest and runs to the Fire Tower Road exit. The trail twists and turns through old-growth hemlock and hardwood forests to the slopes overlooking the Clarion River. You'll be surrounded by some of Cook Forest's oldest and largest hemlocks. Chestnut oaks and white oaks are also found along Mohawk Trail.

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Tobecco Trail


7.5 miles in the park, 10 miles total | More difficult hiking | Point-to-point trail | Yellow blazes
Recreations permitted: hiking
Trailhead amenities: none

Following along the Wild and Scenic Clarion River from the Gateway Lodge on PA 36 to SR 899. This trail connects Cook Forest and Clear Creek State Parks. Most of the trail is located on or near the river bank, however, it does ascend to the ridge tops in two spots.

There are three trailhead parking lots.

The Gateway Lodge parking lot is available on the western end of the trail
A small parking lot on SR 899 is marked by an information kiosk
The third parking area is on the eastern end of the trail in the Clear Creek State Park campground.
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