The Hook Natural Area
Natural area in Pennsylvania
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
The Hook Natural Area is a 5,119-acre (2,072 ha) protected area in Union County, Pennsylvania, United States. It is part of Bald Eagle State Forest.[1][2] It was once the largest protected Natural Area in Pennsylvania[3] but has since been surpassed by Pine Creek Gorge Natural Area.
.jpg)
| The Hook Natural Area | |
|---|---|
A sign for hikers in The Hook Natural Area. | |
  Location within Pennsylvania | |
| Location | Union County, Pennsylvania |
| Nearest town | Hartleton |
| Coordinates | 40°57′48″N 77°10′28″W |
| Area | 5,119 acres (2,072 ha) |
Description
The Natural Area was established to protect the complete watershed of the North Branch of Buffalo Run,[1] which has been named a Class A wild trout fishery.[4] The area is also known for housing songbirds and robust populations of black bears, coyotes, and most notably bobcats which are rare in Pennsylvania.[4] Equally uncommon flying squirrels have also been reported.[2] The Natural Area is named "The Hook" after a distinct meander in the creek, and the area can be explored via a wide variety of maintained hiking trails.[3]