When most of us think of Pennsylvania's rich history, our thoughts likely turn to the Battle of Gettysburg and the signing of the Declaration of Independence. However, did you ever stop to think about the state's equally rich natural history? We can marvel at some of that natural history when we wander through the old-growth forest in Pennsylvania.
Henry's Woods at Jacobsburg Environmental Education Center, in Nazareth, recently became one of only six sites in Pennsylvania to be inducted into the Old-Growth Forest Network.
The Old-Growth Forest Network is dedicated to preserving old-growth forests in the United States for today and for future generations.
McConnells Mill State Park in Portersville and Worlds End State Park in Forksville are two of the other Pennsylvania members of the Old-Growth Forest Network.
Henry's Woods, which has never been logged or developed, is home to trees that date back several hundred years. It is the lone old-growth forest in the Lehigh Valley.
Flanked by Bushkill Creek, the old-growth forest spans 122 acres and boasts white oak and eastern hemlock trees that measure more than 120 feet tall.
To get an up-close view of the old-growth forest, follow the 1.9-mile Henry's Woods Trail. The easy loop trail wanders through the forest, where you'll see the roots of some of the ancient trees.
Once you've finished the trail, consider exploring more of the grounds of Jacobsburg Environmental Education Center. You'll likely run across wildlife, and the park features...
Approximately 19 miles of hiking trails. Picnicking, horseback riding, and mountain biking are all popular activities. In the winter, you can go cross-country skiing.
Stop by the official website of Jacobsburg Environmental Education Center for more information. Or, go here for Facebook.
Have you ever hiked past an old-growth forest in Pennsylvania? What did you think? Share your experience in the comments! Did you know that Cook Forest State Park is also known for its old-growth forest?
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