Smithsonian magazine's 22nd Annual Photo Contest | Made possible through the support of MPB.com

20th Annual Smithsonian Magazine Photo Contest Natural World
Majestic Mountain Laurel on a hike in Cook Forest State Park.

My family and I take an annual camping trip to Cook Forest Star Park located in Cooksburg, Pennsylvania. It is a most beautiful camping spot, which features: ancient forests, superior hiking trails, scenic views of the Clarion River, among much more. Our cabin overlooks the Clarion and we have just the most amazing time year after year, taking in all of nature’s beauty and enjoying it with our loved ones. This particular picture was captured on one of our hikes up a historic Fire Tower that used to serve as a lookout to rangers and firefighters in the past. The majestic Mountain Laurel lines the trails this time of year and I was lucky enough to capture it in a unique and breathtaking view.

Photo Detail
Date Taken: 07.2022
Date Uploaded: 09.2022
Photo Location: Cooksburg, PA, Pennsylvania, United States of America
Copyright: © Emily Laniewicz