Tionesta Scenic and Research Natural Areas

Tionesta Scenic and Research Natural Areas are protected forest zones covering roughly 4100 acres, where hemlock, beech, and maple trees grow, some reaching 400 years old. The land is divided into two sections: one for public access and one dedicated to scientific research.

The forest tract was acquired by the federal government in 1936 and immediately divided into a public access area and a research section. This split allowed the old woods to serve science while remaining open to visitors.

Scientists use these forest areas to observe woodland changes and the behavior of different plant species over long periods. The long-term studies help understand how this forest naturally develops and renews itself.

The area has two marked hiking trails: a short loop around 0.6 kilometers and a longer one around 2.4 kilometers. Both paths are reachable via Forest Road 133E and offer different difficulty levels.

A tornado in 1985 damaged parts of the northern section and created natural conditions to observe how forests recover after major disturbances. These regeneration patterns are of interest to scientists worldwide.

Location: McKean County

GPS coordinates: 41.64390,-78.93720

Latest update: December 8, 2025 21:06