🌲 WHITES WOODS: TREES, TRAILS & QUESTIONABLE UPHILL DECISIONS 🥾

Trade your couch cushions for forest trails and join us for an adventure through Whites Woods and IUP Co-Op Park in Indiana, Pennsylvania!
We’ll tackle a scenic loop of approximately 4.8 miles through peaceful woodlands, open fields, interesting sandstone formations, and the historic Old Quarry. Expect rolling hills, exposed roots, rocks, and a few climbs that may cause you to question why walking on perfectly flat sidewalks ever went out of style.
Don’t worry—we’ll keep a friendly group pace, take breaks, enjoy the scenery, and allow plenty of time for everyone to finish without being chased by bears, park rangers, or overly competitive squirrels.
🥾 Hike difficulty: Moderate
📏 Distance: Approximately 4.8 miles
⛰️ Elevation gain: Approximately 650 feet
⏱️ Time to complete: About 3 hours, including breaks
📍 Location: Whites Woods Nature Center, Indiana, PA
WHAT TO BRING:
• Water
• Sturdy hiking shoes or boots
• Weather-appropriate clothing
• Bug spray
• Snacks for energy—or to bribe the hike leader
• A positive attitude and at least one good trail joke
The route is primarily unpaved and includes uneven ground, rocks, roots, hills, and potentially muddy sections. Please make sure you are comfortable hiking for approximately three hours over moderately challenging terrain.
Come for the exercise, stay for the trees, fresh air, friendly conversation, and the satisfaction of completing a hike before rewarding yourself with food afterward.
🌳 New hikers are welcome!
🌳 Experienced hikers are also welcome!
🌳 People who signed up mainly because they saw the words “food afterward” are especially welcome!
Please arrive a few minutes early so we can introduce ourselves, review the route, and begin together. We hike as a group and do our best not to leave anyone behind—even if you stop to photograph every mushroom (as I do).
Let’s explore Whites Woods together. Your weekend deserves more trees!