Kinzua State Park & Sky Walk

I had planned a trip to north-central Pennsylvania for a while and finally had a chance to seek out a few attractions. Two of the major things I had wanted to see for some time were the Austin Dam and Kinzua Bridge. With a great weather forecast ahead, my brother, a friend, and I started our trip to Kinzua Bridge. The drive lead us through one of the most wooded parts of Pennsylvania with towering trees and a lot of wild life. The drive in itself was easy and scenic and time pasted quickly as we approached the Kinzua State Park.

Marketed as the “Eight Wonder of the World” at one point, the Kinzua Bridge was a historic architectural marvel. The railroad bridge was built over the Kinzua Creek in Meckean County just outside the small town of Mt. Jewett. At one time it was the tallest railroad bridge in the world standing over 300 feet. Originally built in 1882 of wrought iron, it was later rebuilt with steel. It remained working until 1959 and then became part of the Kinzua State Park. Restoration efforts for the bridge to attract more visitors started in 2002, but in 2003 a huge storm ripped through northern Ohio and Pennsylvania and proceeded to build a tornado that knocked down most of the bridge. After the destruction, plans changed to make the bridge a sky walk to show the power of mother nature.

Visitor Center

As we arrived to the parking lot for the sky walk, we were surprised to see a large visitor center. We decided to go straight to the sky walk which was directly behind the visitor center and check back there afterwards. For a Sunday, the park was busy but not overly crowded. Along the sky walk, we quickly progressed high above the tree tops and valley below. At the end of the bridge a large observation platform was built with a glass floor in the middle. We stood 250 feet above the valley with superb view of the valley. We then decided to walk the trail leading to the valley below. The trail itself was steep and one could easily become fatigued if not used to hiking, so I would recommend using caution before attempting. The views from the valley floor were almost as amazing as from above and worth the trip down.

Upon returning from the trail, we decided to stop by the visitor center and were glad we did. The center had many exhibits, some were hands on and great of grade school children. The visitor center also had an information desk and small gift shop. Overall I was very pleased with the trip and would recommend a visit to anyone to see this engineering marvel.

James Cleveland Memorial

Some places I want to visit are not as easily accessible as others when it comes to finding Pennsylvania's vast historical sites. One such places is the James Cleveland Memorial. Most people has never heard of it and the few who have are probably avid hikers in central PA.

There are two ways to reach the trail head to the James Cleveland Trail. The first and most popular way is off of PA 144 between Pleasant Gap and Centre Hall by following Greens Valley Road. The second and older way is off of PA 192 along what is now private property. The trail was made by local boy scout groups and maintained by them. The part of the trail that goes towards Rt 192 from the summit is older and not routinely traveled.

On a cool May afternoon, a friend of mine and I decided to go for a hike and visit the memorial and took the lesser used route from PA 192. There is a small pull off where the trail head is marked. No posted signs or anything was to be seen so we obeyed the “no motor vehicle” sign and left the car and started our hike.

The first part was back an old farm lane. After a few hundred yards we came to a crossing over a small stream. Not until our way back did we realize that is where the trail ended/started. We continued up the lane until we came to the mountain and started our hike up the steep climb up Mt. Nittany. My GPS eventually took us to the right direction and we met the well blue blazed trail. The trek up the mountain was strenuous and we were glad to have a cool day to hike.

Towards the summit the trail became more rocky and we came to a small boulder field were people had stacked some rocks to form small towers. The vista from this point was pretty impressive. James was an early air mail pilot and on May 24^th1934, he wreck into the side of Mt. Nittany. There was a small fire pit and logs around to sit. Unfortunately our climb was cut short by the sudden fall of hail. We continued our climb a few hundred feet and came across the James Cleveland Memorial obelisk and rock tower with plan wreckage. The memorial is in a small pine grove and very peaceful.

We proceeded to hike back down the mountain trying not to fall forward. The trail is only 2 miles one way and I would like to visit the other side of the mountain sometime.

Minersville Coke Ovens

In the southern part of Huntington county between the small towns of Coalmont and Dudley, there is a set of coke ovens and remnants of a mining operation. Minersville was founded in 1875 and quickly burnt out like so many others of it's era. Only part of this historic area is accessible via State Game Lands, the other part is noticeably posted as private land.

We parked our car and set out to explore the area. The Michell and Beehive ovens were easily seen even with mother nature reclaiming them. Some of the ovens were fallen in, but most were still in decent shape. At one time over 150 ovens were in operation. Upon closer observation we found a few foundations to buildings. From the road we could see the remains of a tipple and concrete structures; however, the land they are on is posted.

Heading east from Coalmont along Route 913 about one mile the road leading to the State Game Lands and Minersville is not marked and is simply a right turn onto a dirt road that leads to a bridge over Shoup Run. Please be mindful of the private property.

The Quehanna Wild Area

Bunker Door

This past summer I finally had a chance to explore one of the most unique pieces of North-central Pennsylvania, the Quehanna Wild Area. The wildlife area is a huge 40 thousand acres in parts of Cameron, Clearfield and Elk counties. It also has two natural areas with the Marion Brooks Natural area being the larger and home to the largest White birch forest in the east coast. We picked a great warm day to go hiking and explore some of the most notable parts of the wild area and it’s history.

The Quehanna Wild area was founded like so many other state parks and forests. The land which was predomitaly occupied by native Americans, was settled by early American pioneers and then logged and stripped of it’s growth. In the 1930’s CCC camps were incorporated to help American get out of the Great Depression and give youth jobs and skills for life. The camps would transform the barren land into many of the state forests, recreation areas and state game lands we have now.

Former Reactor Site

After the CCC camps improved what would be later called the Quehanna Wild area, the Curtiss-Wright Corporation bought a small area for testing. The testing was to be done for the new Atoms for Peace policy that President Dwight D. Esinhower endorsed. The policy would allow companies to experiment with nuclear technology in hopes of finding alternative uses for nuclear technology besides war. The Curtiss-Wright Company would use the land they bought to build a nuclear reactor and testing facilities. Remnants of the nuclear testing can still be found. The reactor it’s self was dismantled and for a long time it was questionable if the area was safe from radiation. A large-scale cleanup took place and the reactor site is still a barren field. Two nuclear jet engine test bunkers exist. The one was partly buried and used as a bat sanctuary the other is over growing with foliage; however, you can still explore.

Besides the nuclear aspect of Quehanna Wild area, it is a great place to visit in the autumn not only for the beautiful birch trees, but also for the chance to see elk. A few different blinds are set up for people to get a chance to see theses creatures.

Kunes Camp

Quehanna Wild Area is also an exceptional hiking and backpacking area. The trails are well blazed and diversity in terrain allows for a great experience. We decided to hit some of the highlights on my first trip to Quehanna and took the Kunes Camp trail. This trail peaked my interest due to being named after an old hunting cabin that is along the trail. The hike to Kunes Camp was enjoyable and flat. The cabin was built between 2 large boulders of rock. The front and back walls still stand but the roof had rotted away many years ago. The remnants of an old outhouse were not to far from the cabin.

All in all the Quehanna Wild Area is much more than just a day trip. One could easily spend a few days or week exploring all it has to offer. I will be planning a trip back very soon.

Abandon Road

Fall Festivals and Activities in the Susquehanna River Valley Region

Delgrosso’s Harvest Fest – Tipton PA : Sept 24^th/25th

            Usually taking place the last weekend of September, Harvest Fest at Delgrosso’s Amusement Park is a great way to spend an autumn day. There is a $6 dollar fee for entrance for anyone over the age of 3; however, it includes rides. With countless hand made craft vendors and a variety of things to eat, this festival is geared toward the whole family. The park usually has a petting zoo, pumpkin painting, and entertainers that put on shows for kids.

Potato Fest – Ebensburg PA : Sept 24^th/25^th

            This festival as you may guess is centered around Cambria County being the 2^nd largest producer of potatoes in Pennsylvania. Over 200 craft and food vendors come together and line the streets of Ebensburg. Many potato foods can be had including: Potato soup, candies, pancakes, perogies, chips, and even potato pizza. Live music from acoustic, bluegrass, and even some brass bands can be heard throughout the day. A lot of kid friendly crafts, contests, play areas, and live entertainment goes on for the entirety of the festival. For the adults the Dautless Fire Company hosts a wine tasting. Admission is free and off site shuttle parking is available free at the Admiral Peary Vo Tech, Penn Highlands Community College, and Lake Rowena.

Apple Cider Fest – Patton : Oct 2^nd

            Always celebrated the first Sunday of October, the Apple Cider Festival at Prince Gallitzin State Park is one of a kind. The leaves are usually just starting to change in the park it makes for a great backdrop with the smell of fresh Apple Cider and Apple Butter in the air. The festival has a decent amount of local craft vendors and a set of live entertainment. An old fashion hayride can be had to really experience the park. Admission is free.

Hartslog Day – Alexandria : Oct 8^th

            This unique fall festival takes place annually the 2^nd Saturday of October. The day is named after an old Indian trader that set up his trading post, a log, near present day Alexandria. This is one of my favorite fall festivals even though it’s just one day. There is so much to see and do including over 200 food and hand made craft vendors. A local church even offers a breakfast for people early in the morning. Parking and Admission is free. Don’t miss out on experiencing this small town festival.

Bedford Fall Foliage – Bedford : Oct 8^th/9^th & 15^th/16^th

            This is one of the best places to experience a fall day and really get into the autumn spirit and is always the 2^nd and 3^rd weekends in October. Over 400 vendors line the streets of Bedford with live entertainment, music, chainsaw carvings, Children entertainment, pumpkin patch, and apple pressing. Expect all your favorite fall food like apple cider, apple butter, candy apples, roasted nuts, kettle corn, and many more options.

PumpkinFest – Hollidaysburg : Oct 15^th

            Pumpkin Fest in Hollidaysburg has been slowly getting more and more attention. This year will be the 11^th annual Pumpkinfest celebrated in historic downtown Hollidaysburg. Craft and food venders along with 2 stages with live entertainment make this a small but refreshing fall festival. Many of the local small business in the downtown area are open and offer many fine and unique things that are great to kick-start your holiday shopping.

           

“Fall” into Family – Raystown Lake : Oct 15^th

            This year will mark the 4^th annual “Fall” into Family event at Raystown Lake. This is another smaller festival that is a palate cleanser from the huge crowds other festivals bring and allows for the visitors to really experience the autumn atmosphere. Spend the day watching pumpkin chucking, on a hayride, visiting the tractor show, or the multiple kid friendly games. The event is centered around the family and is a great way to spend a fall day.

PumpkinFest – Old Bedford Village : Oct 15th

            The Pumpkinfest at the Old Bedford Village could not happen at a better time. The leaves are changing and usually almost at there peak color. The air usually has a slight chill and adds to the whole experience.  The colonial village is decorated for the autumn season and really makes for a quaint down to earth experience. There are pie eating contests, pumpkin and gourd chucking and lots for adults and children to experience. The village has many people dressed in colonial wears with different workshops like candle and scarecrow making. Live music and entertainment goes on all weekend and is a great experience. There is a small admission fee for anyone over the age of 14 and free parking.

Shavers Creek Fall Harvest Fest – Petersburg

            This is a great family festival to attend but unfortunately is not going on this year but will return in 2017.

Ravenwood Manor – Beccaria : Sept 29^th- October 30^th.

            For anyone looking for a close to home Haunted Attraction, Ravenwood Manor has been putting on a great show for years. The historic mansion in Beccaria is a great backdrop for a haunted house and hundreds of people attend to get a scare each year. Ticket prices are reasonable with free parking, and food on site. Tickets go on sale around 6:45pm every Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from the last week of September until the end of October. I recommend getting there as early as possible to beat the long lines.

Lincoln Caverns Ghost & Goblin Tours – Huntingdon : Every Friday & Saturday in October

            What better way to get a good scare for Halloween than in a dark cave? Lincoln cavern’s hosts a haunted attraction including a cave tour, Haunted hayride, and woods trail. Each year is a different theme and experience. Save money and perchance tickets online or you can get them at the door. Adults many get a little scare from this attraction but on scare factor I found it more geared towards kids and teens.

       

JB Tree Farm’s Fall Frenzy – Alexandria : Starts Mid Sept through October

            Looking for a great family outing during the fall season? The JB Tree farm will not disappoint. This is a great place to spend an afternoon as a couple or with children. The JB Tree farm kicks off it’s Fall Frenzy Days on September 16^th which include a Corn Maze, Hayrides, Kid play area, Pumpkin Patch and gift shop. This year there is a new Pumpkin Slingshot. There are Nighttime Corn maze hours until 10pm for anyone who wants more of a challenge.

Weakland Farms – Munster : Sept 10th - Oct. 29th Thursday through Sunday

            Weakland Farms is another great place to spend an autumn day. Located in Munster, this farm has a Corn Maze, Barnyard petting zoo, hayride, Pumpkin Patch, Fall decorations for sale, Food stand and Indoor kid play area. The fall activities run from September 10^th through October 29^th Thursday-Sunday.

           

St. Severin Old Log Church

     

St. Severin Old Log Church

     

     Along Route 53 in Clearfield County, there is a small log church that sits back behind a cemetery. St. Severin Church was originally built in 1851 and accommodated 20-30 parishioners. The church is made of logs on a stone foundation with a gable roof and steeple. The Bishop of Pittsburgh, Michael O’Conner, originally dedicated the church in September of 1851. The church remained in use until 1880 when the church grew to small for the growing town of Cooper’s Settlement and a new church was built in what are now the woods around the Old Log Church. That church was later torn down and a stone church was built that is still in use today. The St. Severin Old Log Church was registered under the National Register of Historical Places in 1975.

      St. Severin Old Log Church was a quick stop on another adventure a friend and mine were on that day. It was very peaceful sitting at the back of the cemetery with the woods surrounding it. The inside of the church is well maintained with a plaque that gives some light to the history of the building. Pews line the main floor and the second floor has a few pews as well. Originally the building had a potbelly stove to warm it but is long since gone. Please be respectful of this site if you wish to visit.

The Standoff in Woodard

     Just northeast of State college along Route 45 is the small town of Woodward. With a population of just over 100, not much happens and you probably wouldn’t even know you drove through it. However, in the spring of 1896, the sleepy town was in an uproar over a menacing outlaw that was terrorizing the area.

     William Ettlinger was a known terror in Center County and was always getting into trouble and fights. Reportedly  Ettlinger had beat his father-in-law to a pulp with a whip handle and had a warrant out for his arrest. Ettlinger fled the small town and hid out in the mountains for about 6 months and evaded the local law enforcement, but continued to terrorize the small town. Ettlinger even promised to poison the towns water supply with pesticides. Many of the townspeople were looking for someone to stand up against this outlaw and one man finally did.

     John Barner was a newly appointed constable for the area and made a promise when he got the position that he would bring Ettlinger to justice. Trying to make good on his promise, Barner went to serve Ettlinger his warrant with two deputies but was met at the door by two blasts from a shotgun. Ettlinger then stepped out and slit his throat for good measure and began to fire at the deputies who ran for help. Sheriff Condo was called in from Bellefonte with a few armed men to stop Ettlinger. A standoff developed with volleys of gunfire and Ettlinger throwing an occasional stick of dynamite. The Sherif and his men lit Ettlinger’s house on fire in an attempt to smoke him out. Eventually Ettlinger came out of his home firing and then took his own life.

     After Ettlinger was dead, John Barner was laid to rest in Woodward Cemetery and William Ettlinger was thrown in a shallow grave in a near orchard. Years later, descendants of Ettlinger moved his remains to Woodward Cemetery only a couple years away from Barner. To this day people have reported hearing and smelling gunfire in the cemetery and strange shadows. On my visit to the cemetery, I found it quite peaceful and had no difficulty finding the grave sites of the two men. Please be respectful if you plan to visit this location.