• A View from the Top

    Big Mountain Overlook, a short distance from the historic Lincoln Highway (US Route 30), is on the border of Franklin and Fulton Counties in Buchanan State Forest. On the ridge of Tuscarora Mountain near its summit, there are breathtaking views of the surrounding ridges to the east, and western views as you head up to the overlook. The overlook is at an elevation of 2458 feet. The lowest points in Path Valley are around 700 feet in elevation, giving views of roughly 1700 feet down into the valley, making this one of the biggest, if not the biggest, elevation differences between a summit overlook and the valley below within the state. On clear days, you can see about 100 miles out to Maryland, West Virginia, and Northern Virginia since this is gives a view beyond the end of the next ridges. The 252 mile long Tuscarora Trail, a spur route off of the Appalachian Trail, goes along the ridge.

    I believe the outcropping provides a better view, but I had difficulty finding it when I visited, as it is not well marked.

    Is this the way to the overlook?

    On my travels, I came across some interesting barns in the nearby valleys. The first, and another like it not pictured here, is a brick construction with some beautiful detailing. I don’t remember coming barns like this in other parts of the state that I have visited.

    I like the tile-like material on the silo and the steeples,
  • Fulton and Franklin Treasures

    Cowans Gap State Park is a 1,085-acre park in the beautiful Allens Valley of Fulton County. A 42-acre lake, large campground, rustic cabins, and many hiking trails are prime attractions. The Buchanan State Forest surrounds the park, providing additional options for recreation and natural beauty in all seasons. The park features a full range of other activities such a fishing, boating, hunting, picnicking and swimming.

    The beach in Autumn.
    It was a still day with great reflections on the water.
    A panoramic view.
    A dam and the fishing pier.
    Autumn silence.

    Buchanan’s Birthplace State Park is an 18.5-acre park nestled in a gap of Tuscarora Mountain in Franklin County. The park and the surrounding forested mountains offer an abundance of beauty throughout the year. In addition to President Buchanan’s memorial, there are picnic pavilions and picnic tables. Buck Run flows through the park and hosts a population of native trout.

    James Buchanan Jr. was a lawyer and politician who served as the 15th president of the United States from 1857 to 1861. He previously served as secretary of state from 1845 to 1849 and represented Pennsylvania in both houses of the U.S. Congress.

    The memorial.
    Lovely fall colors.
    Picnic pavilion.
    Buck Run.
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