Amazing
American Wildlife – Sinnemahoning State Park, PA
With the summer dramatically gone and the fall over our shoulders, National
Parks start to reduce the visit hours. The administrations lock up swimming
pools, sport courts and almost any particular recreation areas.
The new season, however, brings other ways to enjoy the nature in these
wonderful places. While fauna continues to get closer to humans, flora turns to
so different colors and textures.
One of the reservations, which always keeps us surprised with such seasonal
changes, is the Sinnemahoning
State Park.
Located 35 miles south from the junction of PA 872 with US Route 6 in
Coudersport, PA, this natural wonder has picturesque views. The surrounding
mountains and deep valleys form the playground for an abundance of wildlife,
including bald eagles, elk, and many birds and butterflies.
From a birds-eye view, Sinnemahoning sits on a high plateau. This area was
carved from the melt waters of glaciers that massively eroded layers of
sandstone and shale, hence the deep valleys. In the fall, the foliage reaches
its peak as the reds, oranges and yellows are revealed in the leaves of the
deciduous forests.
Sinnemahoning is derived from an American Indian word meaning ‘Rocky Lick.’
This natural salt lick is reputed to be near the mouth of Grove Run, a stream
that flows through the nearby town of Sinnemahoning.
Watch for the annual migration of bald eagles as they rest and feed on the
lake before trekking to their winter grounds. Have a look at the small
congregations of monarch butterflies in October as they prepare for their long
migration to South America.
Fall is also the rut or breeding season for elk. They are mainly grazers
preferring to feed on forbs, legumes and grasses, but will browse on trees and
shrubs when adequate ground vegetation is not available.
A visit to the George B. Stevenson Dam is a plus. Originally known as the
First Fork Dam, later was renamed in honor of Clinton County Senator George B.
Stevenson, who promoted the drive for legislation authorizing the project. The
initiative reduces downstream flooding in the Susquehanna River Basin. The
completion dates back to December of 1955.
For more information, search the web page www.visitPAparks.com
Did you already go to the Sinnemahoning State Park? Tell us your
impressions.
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