Pennsylvania is home to the largest free-ranging elk herd in the northeastern United States, roaming across the north-central region of Pennsylvania. This population is a testament to successful conservation efforts.
The Return of Elk to Pennsylvania
Elk once roamed throughout Pennsylvania, but unregulated hunting and habitat destruction led to their extirpation from the state by 1867. The Pennsylvania Game Commission, established in 1895, initiated reintroduction efforts in 1913.
From 1913 to 1926, 177 Rocky Mountain elk were transported from western states, primarily Yellowstone National Park, and released into various Pennsylvania counties. These initial releases occurred in remote areas, including Clinton and Clearfield counties, to minimize conflict with agricultural lands. The population slowly rebounded, though it faced challenges such as illegal killing and crop damage. By the early 1970s, the herd had dwindled to as few as 65 animals. Renewed conservation efforts in the late 1970s and 1980s led to significant growth, and the herd now numbers over 1,400 individuals in north-central Pennsylvania.
Prime Locations for Elk Viewing
The primary elk range in Pennsylvania is concentrated in the north-central part of the state, covering portions of Elk, Cameron, Clinton, Clearfield, and Potter counties. The town of Benezette in Elk County is often considered the heart of Pennsylvania’s elk country and a central hub for viewing.
Winslow Hill, near Benezette, is a prominent viewing area with meadows and fields where elk frequently gather. The Elk Country Visitor Center on Winslow Hill provides facilities and educational exhibits. Other notable spots include Dents Run Elk Viewing Area, known for its views and frequent elk presence, and the Woodring Farm Viewing Area, which features an interpretive trail. Sinnemahoning State Park, situated in Cameron and Potter counties, also offers opportunities to see elk, particularly near its wildlife viewing platform and 40 Maples Picnic Area. These areas often feature food plots and maintained openings that attract elk from surrounding forested hills.
Tips for Safe and Responsible Elk Viewing
The best times for viewing elk are typically during dawn and dusk when they are most active. The fall rutting season, from September through October, is a particularly popular time to witness male elk bugling and engaging in sparring behavior.
Maintaining a safe distance from wild elk is important; visitors should stay at least 100 yards away. Elk are wild animals and can be unpredictable, especially during the rut or when cows are with their calves. It is prohibited to feed elk, as this can lead to them associating humans with food and can promote the spread of diseases. Using binoculars or telephoto lenses allows for close-up views without approaching too closely. Visitors should also respect private property and adhere to any posted regulations, parking only in designated areas to avoid blocking traffic.
Protecting Pennsylvania’s Elk Population
The Pennsylvania Game Commission, in collaboration with the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources and partners like the Keystone Elk Country Alliance, implements various programs. These initiatives include active habitat management, such as creating and maintaining herbaceous grasslands and food plots that provide essential forage for elk. Forest thinning is also employed to promote early successional growth, which offers winter browsing opportunities.
Research and monitoring programs help assess population health and dynamics. Controlled hunting seasons are another tool used by the Game Commission to manage the elk population, helping to balance herd size with available habitat and minimize conflicts with landowners. Public education and responsible tourism also play a role in supporting these conservation efforts.