Alan Seeger Natural Area

Alan Seeger Natural Area is a 390-acre protected forest along Standing Stone Creek, characterized by dense stands of hemlock and white pine trees. The grounds lie within Rothrock State Forest and contain some of the oldest trees in the region.

The natural area was established in 1921 and named after Alan Seeger, an American poet who died while serving in the French Foreign Legion during World War I. The designation reflected an early effort to protect remaining forest tracts from complete logging.

The forest serves as a quiet retreat where visitors walk beneath towering trees and listen to the creek flowing through the ravine. Local people value this place for its sense of solitude and connection to undisturbed nature.

The loop trail spans 1.3 kilometers with minimal elevation change, making it accessible for visitors of varying abilities. The path crosses the creek multiple times via footbridges and is best walked during dry conditions.

The old trees here survived centuries because boundary disputes between logging companies protected this forest section from cutting. They grew undisturbed while logging operations shaped the surrounding landscape.

Location: Huntingdon County

GPS coordinates: 40.69333,-77.75361

Latest update: December 14, 2025 16:42