Posted in Pittsburgh May 09, 2019 by Beth Price-Williams

Hike This Forest Near Pittsburgh That’s Home To 400-Year-Old Trees

Pittsburgh’s pretty much surrounded by opportunities for adventure, whether you only want to travel a few miles or you’re up for a journey of a few hours from home. This forest near Pittsburgh promises an idyllic setting for a leisurely day among nature (and to camp out, if you want). And, it provides the unique opportunity to hike in a breathtaking natural area that’s home to 400-year-old trees.

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Grab your hiking gear and set your GPS for Hearts Content Scenic Area, nestled in Allegheny National Forest, about a 2.5 hour drive north from downtown Pittsburgh.

The lush national scenic area, which spans 122 picturesque acres, features a campground, allowing visitors to sleep under white pine trees that date back as many as 400 years.

And, you'll definitely want to snap photos of the trees that stand more than 140 feet tall. The scenic area holds status as National Natural Landmark.

Of course, if you're not up for camping out overnight, you can still explore the scenic area on one of its hiking trails.

For an easy yet breathtaking hike, embark on the Hearts Content National Scenic Area trail, which spans just over a mile and...

Will take you over beautiful wooden footbridges as you pass along the river. Expect to see other hikers on the trail that allows dogs and is open all year around.

Up for spending the night at Allegheny National Forest? Camp seasonally between May 1 and October 21, 2019.

In fact, campers can pitch a tent in the campground of Hearts Content, which also features a picnic pavilion that was built in 1936.

Have you ever been to this forest near Pittsburgh? Tell us about your experience in the comments! Then, click here to read about another ancient forest near Pittsburgh.