www.onlyinyourstate.com Minister Creek Trail – Allegheny National Forest.

Of course, they are subjective, but it’s nice to have some positive news written about your own area — even if it’s online as part of one of those top 10-type articles.

And, as they say, “it must be true, I read it on the internet.”

That said, onlyinyourstate.com, which has “travel writers (that have) penned over 90,000 articles highlighting the hidden gems, little known attractions, and natural wonders of each of our 50 unique states,” spoke highly of a little spot in Warren County.

In an article, “7 Cool And Calming Hikes To Take In Pennsylvania To Help You Reflect On The Year Ahead,” Beth Price-Williams lists the Allegheny National Forest’s Minister Creek Trail at No. 4.

“Breathe in the fresh air along the 6.6-mile Minister Creek Loop Trail in the Allegheny National Forest. The moderate trail offers an abundance of natural beauty – rock formations, flowing streams, and lush trees. Drink in sweeping views from several scenic vistas dotted along the path.”

Other trails listed include the Forest Cathedral Trail in Cook Forest State Park.

“A New Year brings with it so much promise,” said Price-Williams. “Sometimes, however, we just don’t have the time for quiet reflection. The best places and times for reflection often exist among nature, away from the noise of normal life. Next time you have a few free hours, slip on your hiking boots and set off on one of these seven cool and calming hikes in Pennsylvania that provide the perfect backdrop for peace, quiet, and reflection.”

It’s why some of us live where we live.

“What is really enticing to hikers and campers is the proximity of the trail loops and the Minister Creek Campground. It’s a best of both worlds combo,” said Warren County Visitors Bureau Executive Director Dave Sherman. “Whomever labeled it ‘cool and calming’ clearly knew what they were talking about in terms of solitude, the views, and the escape-hatch away from the world if one is seeking one. Some hikers are already aware of the Minister Creek Trails and are looking for confirmation or validation before they head out there, and that’s fine. However, it’s much more enjoyable in our roles to make hikers aware for the first time of the ‘cool and calming’ option that awaits them out there. The feedback is always positive. Always.”

Here is the link to the article:

https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/pennsylvania/cool-calm-hikes-pa/?fbclid=IwAR1NTvjdz7aWT0Ei0J–W3JymmqYQX2p11uZ9tWVF1K2Pems98Hol5h4EITo