It’s summer, which means it is the time for adventure. Black Moshannon State Park isn’t your typical walk in the woods; rather, it contains one of the most ecologically diverse areas in the entire state of Pennsylvania. Here you can find the largest bog or wetland system in the state, which contains a variety of fascinating plants and animals you won’t find anywhere else in the area.
Nicholas A. Tonelli/ Flickr
Black Moshannon State Park covers 3,394 acres of land off of PA 504, not far from Philipsburg in Centre County. It is popular in both the summer and winter seasons for recreation, whether it be cross-country skiing, hiking, fishing, boating, or more. One of the most popular attractions is the bog.
You will spot plenty of plants here that you won’t find anywhere else in Pennsylvania, including a variety of carnivorous plants, sphagnum moss, and orchids. Cranberries and blueberries also grow in the bog.
Here is a view from Rattlesnake Fire Tower which overlooks the park. Within those deep and dark woods, black bears are not an uncommon sight. The area is also considered an important bird area; a variety of shorebirds and migratory birds stop here to breed. The unique ecosystem here attracts birds that wouldn’t ordinarily live in Pennsylvania.
dkeg/ Flickr
A biker crosses Black Moshannon Creek on a boardwalk bridge. Many bikers can be found navigating the many trails of this park. There are a total of 16 miles of trails here, so you will have a difficult time getting bored.
Wikimedia Commons
The most unforgettable sight at Black Moshannon, though, is the bog natural area. It is definitely worth a visit, if not many.
Have you been here, or do you want to visit? Tag someone you’d bring with you — and share your stories in the comments! Thanks for reading.
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