The Pennsylvania State Park Where You Can Hike Across A Swinging Bridge And Wooden Footbridges Is A Grand Adventure
By Beth Price-Williams|Updated on September 14, 2023(Originally published October 19, 2022)
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Beth Price-Williams
Author
A professional writer for more than two decades, Beth has lived in nearly a dozen states – from Missouri and Virginia to Connecticut and Vermont – and Toronto, Canada. In addition to traveling extensively in the U.S. and the U.K., she has a BA in Journalism from Point Park University (PA), a MA in Holocaust & Genocide Studies from Stockton University (NJ), and a Master of Professional Writing from Chatham University (PA). A writer and editor for Only In Your State since 2016, Beth grew up in and currently lives outside of Pittsburgh and when she’s not writing or hanging out with her bunnies, budgies, and chinchilla, she and her daughter are out chasing waterfalls.
We’re never far from adventure in Pennsylvania – whether we’re daredevils, or we prefer a more laidback experience. Home to some of the oldest trees in the state, this Pennsylvania state park features several natural and manmade wonders, making it more than worthy of a spot right at the top of your bucket list. You’ll also cross a swinging bridge that’s sure to take your breath away.
Wander through an old-growth forest and over a swinging bridge when you embark on a good, old-fashioned adventure at Cook Forest State Park in Cooksburg.
If you've been wondering where you can find a "park with a wooden bridge near me," you've just hit paydirt. Cook Forest State Park is the place to go for an outdoor adventure.
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Keep an eye out for downed trees, and be prepared for some moderate inclines along the way. Slipping on a sturdy pair of hiking shoes is always a good idea, too.
Cook Forest State Park's Forest Cathedral, through which the trail passes, is home to forest pine and hemlock trees that are believed to be more than three centuries old. Bring your camera along to capture snapshots of these gorgeous trees.
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You'll also have to climb stairs and, if you're unlucky and one of the bridges is washed out, you may have to cross the stream. (Definitely wear shoes you don't mind getting wet.)
The trail can get quite busy, so be prepared to run into other adventurers.
Open all year round, the trail offers scenic beauty in all seasons - from the blossoming flowers in the spring to the vibrant foliage in the fall. It can get quite icy during the winter, so consider using ice spikes.
A journey along this picturesque path is just the beginning of your adventure. Carve out more time to check out more of the popular Pennsylvania state park that's home to hiking trails, wildlife watching, picnicking, and camping.
Take a peek at the adventure that awaits at Cook Forest State Park in this video by VisitPAGo on YouTube.
Do you have a favorite Pennsylvania state park that’s perfect for an adventure? Have you ever crossed the Cook Forest Swinging Bridge? Tell us about it in the comments! For an adventure of a different kind, visit this abandoned town, one of the eeriest places in Pennsylvania.
All that exploring means one thing. Your wanderlust is sure to kick into overdrive. Ready for more adventures? Check out AllTrails Plus.
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More to Explore
State Parks In Pennsylvania
Beth Price-Williams|September 13, 2023
What are some other must-visit state parks in Pennsylvania?
You never know what gems you’ll discover at Pennsylvania’s state parks, including swinging bridges and wooden footbridges, like the Cook Forest swinging bridge. Here are some more must-visit state parks in Pennsylvania.
Erie Bluffs State Park. While you can’t swim at this state park along Lake Erie, you will be treated to sensational views of the water.
Marvel at the waterfall at Ravensburg State Park, a tiny but mighty state park. It spans just 78 acres.
Cross another swinging bridge, this time at Trough Creek State Park, home to Rainbow Falls, Copperas Rock, and an ice mine.
Greenwood Furnace State Park is home to a spectacular waterfall, hiking trails, and a sandy beach.
