Buchanan State Forest

Buchanan State Forest is a protected woodland across three Pennsylvania counties with mixed oak forests along white pine, dogwood, and mountain laurel. The land is managed by the Bureau of Forestry to balance water protection, public recreation, and responsible timber harvesting.

The forest began in 1895 when Dr. Joseph Rothrock started buying land to establish forest reserves after lumber companies cleared vast areas. These early purchases formed the foundation of the protected land that exists today.

The forest holds traces of Forbes Road, built during the French and Indian War, which visitors can now walk along as part of the hiking trail network.

The forest has multiple entry points and trails for visitors of different skill levels. It helps to plan ahead since the land spans separate areas across the region.

A sandstone aqueduct from the 1880s stands in the forest as a leftover from an incomplete railroad project. This unexpected structure reminds visitors of ambitious construction plans that never reached completion.

Location: Pennsylvania

GPS coordinates: 39.83190,-78.54830

Latest update: December 11, 2025 11:06