This 890-acre National Natural Landmark is an unusual remnant boreal bog surrounded by the ridges and upper slopes of the Alleghenies. It is a paradise for botanists, providing an environment for types of vegetation usually only found much farther north. It is included in the Old Growth Forest Tour as an illustration of why an area can retain an unforested, open character over millenia without having been logged.

The bog's formation was caused by the topographic features of the site: the natural damming of the only outlet, Sinking Creek, and the sheltering mountains. Studies indicate that it began as a pond some 10,000 years ago, following the last Ice Age. Through the centuries the pond has nearly filled with soil, twigs and decaying plants, resulting layers of largely organic debris. The pollen in these layers is an important source of information on the climatic history and consequent vegetative changes of this region.

Rather than hemlock, white pine or hard wood, this site contains black spruce and balsam fir as major tree species. It also is home to several types of orchids, the pitcher plant and the rare insect-eating sundew. High bush blueberry is abundant, with fruits ripening in mid- to late summer. The bog itself encompasses 320 acres. The southwestern part is an open meadow, the old-age product of a previous bog. Here five different types of peat moss can be found.

There is an observation platform for viewing water birds. Good trails surround the bog. The Mid-State Trail travels along the south border of the natural area.

Access Details

Four miles south of Boalsburg, in Centre County, off US Rt 322. Turn south at the Tussey Mountain Ski Resort and follow Bear Meadows Road to the Natural area. Also accessible from the south at Detweiler Run Natural Area.

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