Maurice Goddard State Park, Sandy Lake, PA

Planning to enjoy the great outdoors of Northwestern Pennsylvania with your pup? Then make your way to Maurice K. Goddard State Park! About an hour north of Pittsburgh and a bone’s throw from I-79, this 2,856-acre site features the popular Lake Wilhelm and comprises mature forests, abundant wetlands, and old fields that are home to various wildlife species. Like all Pennsylvania state parks, Maurice K. Goddard State Park welcomes leashed canine visitors in designated areas. 

The best way to explore the park is to hit the trails. There are 16 miles of trails that will take you and your pooch near the lake, as well as through forests and fields. The park’s main trail is the scenic John C. Oliver Multi-Purpose Trail Loop. Spanning 12 miles, this loop is composed of two paved sections: the one on the south shore includes areas that share the road with motor vehicles, while the one on the north shore contains steep runs and several vistas that overlook the lake. 

For a hike that will take you back in time, check out the 0.7-mile Falling Run Nature Trail. This self-guided trail, which follows old logging roads, passes by a small waterfall and a pioneer settlement. Then there’s the 3-mile Goddard McKeever Hiking Trail, which leads to the now-closed McKeever Environmental Learning Center. 

Thanks to the park’s diverse habitats, you and Fido will most likely encounter wildlife during your hike. Keep your eyes peeled for waterfowl such as the loon, teal, goldeneye, and bufflehead in the spring and fall; woodpeckers including the pileated woodpecker in the winter; and turtles, ospreys, and beavers in the summer. 

Other activities that you can do with your pooch at the park are picnicking and boating. Whatever you choose to do, make sure to keep your canine companion on a leash, clean up after them, and be mindful of other visitors. And be sure to bring clean-up bags and enough water to share with your adventure pooch!

Adventurous pups will surely have a barking’ good time at Maurice K. Goddard State Park!

New adventures are exciting, but they can sometimes result in an injury. Before visiting Maurice K. Goddard State Park, compare pet health insurance plans to keep your fur-child in the best “pawssible” shape for all your outdoor adventures!