Trails Mix: Pennsylvania Wilds

Welcome to the Pennsylvania Wilds, a vast region of our state's northern tier. Your first stop is the most natural stop of all - the Elk Country Visitor Center, the new eco-friendly structure in the heart of Elk County. As you'll quickly find out, Elk County is home to the largest elk herd in Northeastern United States. At the Visitor Center, check out the panoramic views, interactive exhibits, gift shops, and the hands-on Discovery Room for kids. After you’ve introduced yourself to the elk herds that count themselves among the visitors, hit the road by way of the scenic Quehanna Highwayto the majestic Moshannon State Forest. Watch your speed, as your passenger(s) will undoubtedly want to take a lot of photos on the way.

You're now entering one of the PA Wild's greatest treasures, the Quehanna Wild Area and its 48,000+ acre of natural fun and beauty. Home to a portion of the vast Quehanna Trail system, a 75-mile loop hiking trail, of which over 30 miles are located here, there are countless opportunities for wildlife viewing, fishing, and picnicking with a view. Make your first stop and stretch your legs at the Marion Brooks Natural Area and Monument, a 900+ acre natural area named after Marion Brooks, a pioneering environmentalist and native of Elk County.

This area also boasts the largest stand of white birch trees in the eastern United States. After you've enjoyed the scenery, take a hike on the Marion Brooks Loop Trail, a pleasant three-mile ramble to take in the best of the unique landscape and environment.

Before you head for some much deserved R&R, be sure to make a stop at the Beaver Run Dam Wildlife Viewing Area, where shallow water impoundments offer daily viewing of waterfowl, wading birds, deer, and songbirds. Nearby open fields provide food (and occasional viewing) of elk, white-tailed deer and wild turkeys. Good luck pulling yourself away from all this. Food and slumber awaits in nearby Clearfield.

After your morning drive, hop out of the car to experience Bald Eagle, a 5900 acre home to hiking trails, campgrounds, boating, fishing, swimming and natural habitats. Check out the sand and turf beach at Sayers Lake with views of Bald Eagle Mountain. Nearby trails (easy to moderate) are available, including the 1.5 mile Butterfly Trail loop, which begins and ends near the beach. It get its name from the conservation of butterflies for which it was created. On the 5.4 mile Lakeside Trail, tackle the rocky runs along the base of Bald Eagle Mountain. Your day at Bald Eagle is sure to both delight and tire you out. Luckily, you'll be staying very nearby at the beautiful Nature Inn. In addition to stellar accomodations, you'll still get some bird watching in with help from their bird tracker kiosks and fixed sighting scopes that are available to Inn guests.