Wykoff Run State Forest Natural Area, a Pennsylvania State Forest located near Clearfield

WYKOFF RUN STATE FOREST NATURAL AREA

The Wykoff Run State Forest Natural Area in Pennsylvania is a breathtaking forested region situated in Cameron and Elk counties. Featuring nearly 1,000 acres of pristine woodland, it is renowned for its diverse array of plant and animal species, making it a haven for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts alike. The natural area encompasses the stunning Wykoff Run Gorge, where a cascading stream carves its way through the ancient rocks, creating picturesque waterfalls and pools. Hiking trails offer visitors the opportunity to explore this unspoiled landscape, from towering hemlock trees to vibrant wildflowers. With its rugged beauty and tranquil atmosphere, the Wykoff Run State Forest Natural Area is a true gem for those seeking solace in nature.

History of the Area

Wykoff Run State Forest Natural Area is located in Northwestern Pennsylvania, specifically in Forest County. It is managed by the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) and covers an area of approximately 6,930 acres.

The history of Wykoff Run State Forest Natural Area dates back to the early 20th century when the area was logged extensively for timber. The timber industry played a significant role in the development and economic growth of Pennsylvania during that time. However, this heavy logging led to the deforestation of many areas, including Wykoff Run.

In the 1920s, the Pennsylvania Department of Forests and Waters (now DCNR) began acquiring land in the region to establish state forests and protect the remaining natural resources. Wykoff Run State Forest Natural Area was one of the many properties acquired during this period.

The area's status as a state forest natural area signifies its unique ecological and geological features. Wykoff Run is a designated Exceptional Value stream, known for its high water quality and biodiversity. It is home to various species of salamanders, wildflowers, and trees such as hemlocks, white pines, maples, and oaks.

The forest in the natural area has been allowed to regenerate naturally over the years, leading to the restoration of its forest ecosystem. The absence of active logging or timber operations has allowed the natural area to evolve into a diverse and relatively undisturbed habitat.

Wykoff Run State Forest Natural Area provides recreational opportunities for visitors. Hiking trails, fishing, and wildlife observation are popular activities in the area. The natural area serves as a valuable resource for conservation, education, and scientific research, preserving a small part of Pennsylvania's rich natural heritage.

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Location

Wykoff Run State Forest Natural Area is located near Clearfield

Nearby Parks

Johnson Run State Forest Natural Area

Elk State Forest

Parker Dam State Park

Sinnemahoning State Park

Kettle Creek State Park

Trails

1. Quehanna Trail: This is a 75-mile loop trail that passes through the Wykoff Run State Forest Natural Area, offering hikers stunning views of diverse landscapes including forests, meadows and streams.

2. Eastern Cross Connector Trail: A moderately difficult hiking path spanning approximately 6 miles in length within the forest area; it connects with other trails such as Bellefonte Posse and Lincoln Loop for extended hikes.

3. Western Cross Connector Trail: Another connector route which links to various parts of Quehanna Wild Area's extensive network of paths; this one spans around five miles featuring mixed terrain suitable for intermediate level trekkers.

4. Marion Brooks Loop Hike: An easy-to-moderate hike covering about four miles round trip where you can see white birch trees unique to Pennsylvania's natural areas along your journey.

5. Teaberry Rock Trails: These are short but steep climbs leading up to an impressive rock formation known as 'Teaberry Rock'. The main trail covers roughly two-and-a-half mile stretch while there are several smaller side-trails branching off from it providing different viewpoints on top.

6. Red Run Gorge Overlook: It offers a moderate three-mile trek showcasing breathtaking vistas over Red Run Gorge at its peak point making it worth every step uphill.

7. Bellefonte Posse & Lincoln Loop: Combined together these form an eight-plus mile long circuitous track taking hikers across varied terrains like dense woods, open fields and alongside flowing creeks all under canopy cover most part ensuring ample shade during summers or shelter against light rain showers if any occur unexpectedly en-route their expedition here inside Wykoff run state forest natural area premises itself only!

8. Moose Grade Road Pathway: This pathway runs parallelly beside Moose grade road giving visitors chance walking amidst nature without straying too far away into wilderness thus proving ideal choice especially among those preferring leisurely strolls over strenuous hikes.

9. Wykoff Run Waterfalls Trail: This is a short, less than half-mile trail that leads to the beautiful cascades of Wykoff Run waterfalls; it's an easy hike suitable for all ages and skill levels.

10. CCC Trails: These are several miles long trails built by Civilian Conservation Corps during 1930s now serving as popular hiking routes within this forest area providing glimpses into its rich history besides natural beauty spread around in abundance here at every turn taken along these paths traversing through heartland Pennsylvania state's wilderness regions like none other found elsewhere across entire United States country itself!

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Directions

1. Start by heading onto US:219 N from your current location.
2. Continue on US:219 N for approximately 20 miles until you reach the town of Ridgway.
3. In Ridgway, turn left onto PA:120 W/E Main St and continue to follow PA-120 W for about 12 miles.
4. After driving through Emporium, merge onto Sinnemahoning Portage Creek Hwy/PA:872 S toward Driftwood/Cameron County High School.
5. Follow Sinnemahoning Portage Creek Hwy/PA:872 S for around 8 miles until you reach Wykoff Run Road (also known as Township Rd T526).
6 Turn right onto Wykoff Run Road/Township Rd T526 and drive along this road into the state forest area.