A warm summer day at The Nature Inn presents endless opportunities to explore the wilderness of Central Pennsylvania and its captivating history. So why not embark on an epic adventure? Don't worry—you'll be back with plenty of time to relax. Soaking up the afternoon sun while taking in majestic views of the lake is that much sweeter after some time in the woods.
The embers of the charcoal hearths, which once produced the perfect fuel for pig iron production have long since gone cold and the Greenwood Works furnace pictured above no longer roars with life each day. What remains is but a reminder of the role that this area played in the industrial revolution and the early railroad industry. Once an area where over 300 acres of trees were burned per year to supply charcoal for the furnaces is now a beautiful state park—a testament to Mother Nature's power to reclaim her territory. It is now a sanctuary for wildlife and the perfect place for you to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Greenwood Furnace State Park is a true hidden gem. It lies just one hour from the Nature Inn and hosts a Top Vista which promises a rewarding view for a moderate climb. Say goodbye to the city from the Jo Hays Vista as you catch your last glimpse of State College. Take the descent off the ridge and into the rolling hills of the opposite valley. Be sure to grab a map and check out the furnaces after parking at the Visitor Center. When you're ready, set off to the Standing Stone Trail and begin your ascent to the rugged vista with views of the entire valley. The hike is a 4.5-mile loop that begins and ends at the Visitor Center. Be sure to bring plenty of water, bug spray, and your best camera. This journey ventures through a diverse ecosystem with fascinating plants, animals, and fungi at every turn—not to mention the spectacular view from the top!
Here is an overview of the loop. Begin from the Visitor Center, then climb up and across the ridge via the Standing Stone Trail. Finish with your descent on the Turkey Trail, Lorence Trail, and Monsell Trail.
Keep a lookout along the steady climb; you might startle a sleepy porcupine from his peaceful siesta.
Or you may see some striking plants like these ghost pipes, which gather nutrients from the fungi in the ground instead of the sun.
Take a break and have some water. In Pennsylvania, you're never as far from the top as you think. Just when you least expect it, you'll emerge on a rocky outcrop that crowns the top of the ridge. All of that hard work climbing is just a distant memory as you see the warm rays of sunshine pierce through the clouds and blanket the lush carpet of green below.
Capturing the beauty of this place through your camera lens is not difficult, but like many of Pennsylvania's most stunning vistas, its true magic is best experienced in person.
I finished this hike, passing the weathered dam that rests at the base of the mountain that hosted my adventure. I was reminded one last time of the opportunity a warm Summer day in Pennsylvania gives you. These British Soldier lichens pictured to the left are evidence of the biological diversity you can experience in the area. These organisms are a fascinating combination of fungi and algae working together to play a big part in the overall ecosystem. They represent the unspoiled natural beauty of Greenwood Furnace, being some of the first organisms to disappear after an environment has been disturbed. I was proud to have had a day well spent. My mind thanked my body for another day in the woods.
I hope you choose to check out this Top Vista on your next visit to the Nature Inn. There are so many beautiful places in the PA wilderness. You won't be able to see them all in one trip, but this Standing Stone trail vista near Greenwood Furnace State Park is a great start. Come back to the inn and end the day with some time on your balcony as the light fades and the air cools. Tell the tales of your adventure to some new friends over a campfire and some s'mores.
Written by Daniel Landon
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