Who Can Rock the Land Like No Other?

I am sure we all think there is more than one place that rocks like no other however the simple answer here is Rockland, PA. I decided today of all days to discover some new ruins, old historical areas, overlooks, and small towns I have yet to visit. Located in Venango County, PA, Rockland Township is near Kennerdell, Cranberry, Sugarcreek, and Franklin, PA. All towns I had never heard of before, even though I have lived in Pennsylvania my entire life. Our travels started off at a beautiful overlook that gave us a chance to check out the quaint town of Kennerdell. The overlook had information placards that gave historical facts of the surrounding areas including facts about oil drilling, wool mills, how the town got its name, and about the deforestation problems from iron smelting.

After leaving Kennerdell, we ventured over to Rockland and decided to check out 5 miles of the Alleghany River Trail that connects the Rockland Train Tunnel to each end. Located at Rockland Station Road, Kennerdell, PA, 16374, you will find plenty of parking. Along our hike we saw a black squirrel, bald eagle, fish jumping, cardinals, and so much wildlife. It was beautiful and peaceful, until we got into a discussion of why the tunnel was built by the Buffalo to Pittsburgh Railroad. Tunnels were created to cut down travel time for transportation and make the path more direct and feasible. My daughter compared the tunnel building to the popular kids' movie John Henry, a family friendly movie about a slave who beats a machine through a mountain.

Just up the road from the roundtrip hike, is the Rockland Furnace and Freedom Falls. Both wonderful hikes and sites to see, with a rich history to the area. The hike down to the falls and furnace is a bit touchy, and rough. Once down there, it is worth the descend. My young children and I managed fine, however if it had been colder and icy, it would have never happened.

I know there is so much to explore everywhere we go. I've stayed in Erie, Pennsylvania over a hundred times and still have not seen everything there is to offer. This time I stayed in Meadville and have never been happier to see things I have never seen today! If you visit, please feel free to share your experience. Each adventure is different, and I would love to hear about yours! If you are looking to travel to this area, please contact me and I would love to book it for you! As Always, Happy Adventuring!