Elk State Forest, Protected forest in Pennsylvania, US
Elk State Forest is a large protected woodland area spanning several counties in north-central Pennsylvania, predominantly covered by hardwood and mixed oak forests. The forest has numerous trails and pathways that wind through different forest types and terrain.
The forest was established around 1900 after lumber companies had removed vast quantities of old trees during the 1800s, leaving the land needing restoration. Much of the rebuilding work involved replanting and managing the forest to create the woodlands visitors see today.
The forest takes its name from the elk that roam here, animals deeply connected to the land's identity and to how visitors experience the woods. Local communities have adapted their relationship with the forest around the presence of these large herbivores.
Bring proper gear and be prepared for changing conditions as you move through different forest sections and elevations. Plan your route in advance and allow plenty of time to explore, as the trails can be long and the forest is expansive.
The forest is home to a herd of over 600 elk that were reintroduced in the early 1900s after the species had vanished from the region. These animals shape the visitor experience today, with herds often visible moving through their woodland habitat.
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