Twice last week, Warren County residents were reminded of the natural beauty that we sometimes take for granted.

The Allegheny River was named the River of the Year by the state Department of Conservation and Natural Resources. . That announcement was followed later in the week by DCNR’s announcement that the Trails at Jake’s Rock were named the states’ Trail of the Year.

“This amazing trail system is extremely deserving of this tremendous honor and I am excited to announce the Trails at Jakes Rocks have been selected as Pennsylvania’s top trail for 2024,” DCNR Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn said. “People travel from near and far to hike, bike and run these trails, which is a testament to the worthiness of this trail system. We at DCNR are hopeful that this honor helps connect even more people to the recreation opportunities around the trails, in Warren County and in the Allegheny National Forest.”

A recent economic impact analysis found that the the Trails at Jake’s Rocks draws more than 25,000 users annually. While we don’t put much stock in the formulas used to show economic impact, it goes without saying those 25,000 users are spending money in and around Warren County when they come to visit.

It’s no wonder so much of our time and energy is spent trying to come up with new ways to tell the outside world about the things they can discover if they explore the outdoors in Warren County.

Some places have notable museums, amusement parks or cultural institutions that draw people both near and far. In Warren County we have outdoor assets – and if there is to be a boost to tourism it will come from how well we capitalize on our greatest asset.