If you enjoy animals as we do, there is a lovely place just a little way over the New York State Border into Pennsylvania, where you can spot wild elk. This world-famous destination has become a mecca for animal lovers longing to see these majestic creatures.
History
Elk used to roam the woods of Pennsylvania, but due to unregulated hunting and loss of habitat, the herd was thinned to nothing. In 1913, the Pennsylvania Game Commission began to reintroduce elk to the area. For the last twenty years, there has been a movement to protect the elk and preserve their natural environment. Today the herd is close to 1,400 strong and growing.
Elk County Visitor Center
If you only stop at one place in Elk Country, it should be the Elk Country Visitor Center. This is basically elk central. This is where visitors should start their journey to find elk. The visitor center is full of educational exhibits and knowledgeable staff.
The staff was super helpful when we had questions about where we could go to find elk. They provided us with a map of the area and told us where the elks have frequently been seen grazing and some tips on what kinds of places they enjoyed during the day and early evening. My kids enjoyed talking to the naturalist who had a table full of biofacts (elk pelts, antlers, bones, etc.) and explained fun facts about elks and their anatomy.
Along with the exhibits, there is an excellent gift shop that sells all kinds of Elk Country souvenirs, and the proceeds go back to aid in the conservation of the beautiful animals. (I bought myself a gorgeous hoodie and felt great about my purchase!!! My kiddos bought a variety of elk jerky, which they declared to be “amazing!”)
There are several elk viewing trails around the visitor center that offer guests the opportunity to see the elk. They aren’t always there, but we were told that it is one of the places they frequent the most. Even if you don’t see the elk, these trails are lovely to walk and wheelchair accessible.
Viewing the Elk
There are maps available at the visitor center with various places to spot the elk, such as Winslow Run, Woodridge Farm, Dents Run, and Hicks Run. Most of the large viewing areas are not far from the visitor center and have ample parking for large crowds.
On the staff’s recommendation at the visitor center, we took some back dirt roads through the woods to see if we could find any elk. The elk have habits that help people find them.
The best time to see the elks is an hour or two after sunrise or before sunset.
Fall. During mating season, bull elk can often be seen at the forest edge, preparing to battle other males for the right to mate.
Winter. In colder months, elk typically seek warmth and shelter among the trees. The evergreen forests provide good cover, and deciduous trees offer cold-weather nourishment for these animals.
Spring and Summer. As the weather warms and food become more plentiful, elk move to the meadows to feed on the bounty of planted grasses.
Dawn and Dusk. These are the best times to observe elk–especially during the rut, or mating season, in September and October.
**Please also remember that elk are wild creatures, and their behavior may be unpredictable. Never approach an elk, and always view these animals from a safe distance.
*Please keep in mind that pets and elk don’t mix–so please leave your pets at home for their safety and yours.
Getting to The Elk Country Visitor Center
Address: 950 Winslow Hill Road, Benezette, PA