Greenwood Furnace State Park

## Greenwood Furnace State Park: A Journey Through Nature and History

Nestled in the rugged beauty of central Pennsylvania, Greenwood Furnace State Park offers a captivating blend of rich history and diverse natural landscapes, making it a haven for families and wildlife enthusiasts alike. This 423-acre park, featuring a serene six-acre lake, is enveloped by the expansive 80,000-acre Rothrock State Forest, presenting an exquisite escape into the heart of the Seven Mountains. It's a place where the echoes of a bustling 19th-century industrial village meet the tranquility of a rejuvenated forest, inviting visitors to explore a unique convergence of past and present.

The park's heart is its historic iron-making complex, where visitors can explore the preserved Greenwood Furnace, an integral part of an iron village that once thrived here. Beyond its historical significance, Greenwood Lake beckons with opportunities for swimming, boating, and fishing for stocked trout. The park's diverse habitats support a remarkable array of flora and fauna, offering glimpses of species such as the vibrant cardinal flower and swamp milkweed, the distinctive violet coral fungus, and a variety of wildlife, including the elusive American Black Bear, Meadow Voles, and various birds like the Ruby-throated Hummingbird and Eastern Phoebe. Keep an eye out for reptiles like the Common Watersnake and Common Five-lined Skink, and insects such as the Spicebush Swallowtail and European Hornet.

Greenwood Furnace State Park is more than just a destination; it's an experience that leaves a lasting impression. Whether you're drawn to its compelling history, eager to hike its scenic trails that connect to longer routes like the Standing Stone Trail, or simply wish to relax by Greenwood Lake and observe the abundant wildlife, the park offers something for every visitor. From the vibrant hues of partridgeberry and winterberry holly to the distinctive calls of the Blue-gray Gnatcatcher and Cedar Waxwing, the park promises memorable encounters with both nature and the echoes of Pennsylvania's industrial past. Explore the grounds like a pro—download the Snappit app to instantly identify animals and plants.