On September 24, 1923, U.S. President Calvin Coolidge signed a proclamation establishing the Allegheny National Forest (ANF). To this day, the Allegheny National Forest – often called “the ANF” – is the only national forest in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
Spanning more than 500,000 acres, it inspired the naming of the Allegheny National Forest & Surrounds landscape of the Pennsylvania Wilds.
What is today known as the ANF was at one time referred to as “the Allegheny brush heap,” following the lumber boom of the late 1800’s and early 1900’s, which stripped the Allegheny Mountain of trees. Almost completely deforested, the area was also called “The Pennsylvania Desert.” The lush mountain forests of Warren, Forest, McKean and Elk counties were gone — reduced to barren brush land. The damage was so severe that it was feared the forests would never recover. Brushfires raged, layers of topsoil eroded, and streams and rivers flooded. Realizing the impacts of the decisions made, conservation efforts were implemented to bring back the forests and ensure the mountains of the region are never devastated again.
The ANF & Surrounds landscape has been the launchpad for some groundbreaking innovations as well as traditional industries that have fueled our nation’s growth. From production of Piper planes kicking off in Bradford to being the birthplace of the powdered metal industry, to a region-wide lumber industry that powered the industrial revolution — the Allegheny National Forest has had an impact far beyond its borders in the PA Wilds.
Check out these products that are inspired by the Allegheny National Forest and that are made or designed by artists in the Pennsylvania Wilds.
80 E Corydon St # C, Bradford, PA 16701 | (800) 473-9370
The Allegheny National Forest Visitors Bureau (ANFVB) provides in depth traveler information ranging from trail guides, to outdoor recreation, must-see stops, road trips, shopping, lodging and more! Request a brochure and check the ANFVB calendar for special events. Details here.
2801 Maplevale Rd, Brookville, PA 15825 | (814) 849-5197
The Pennsylvania Great Outdoors (PAGO) Visitors Bureau provides traveler resources for a 5-county region that extends into the Allegheny National Forest from the south. Details here.
22045 US-6, Warren, PA 16365 | (814) 726-1222
The Warren County Visitors Bureau Warren County offers travel information for the northwestern portion of the Allegheny National Forest, including the Kinzua Dam. Details here.
Looking for a quick route into the Allegheny National Forest & Surrounds landscape of the PA Wilds? Check out the direct flights available through the Bradford Regional Airport. Located literally just minutes from the Allegheny National Forest, the airport offers an easy access point for outdoor adventures. Direct flights are available from Pittsburgh International Airport and Dulles International Airport. In addition, Bradford Regional Airport has partnerships with ACE Rent A Car. Details here.
When exploring Emporium and the surrounding area, be sure to practice the Seven Principles of Leave No Trace to ensure you have an enjoyable experience while also protecting what makes the PA Wilds special.
Plan Ahead & Prepare • Travel & Camp on Durable Surfaces
Trash Your Trash & Pick Up Pet Waste • Leave What You Find
Be Careful With Fire • Keep Wildlife Wild • Be Mindful in Shared Spaces