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Exploring Worlds End State Park with Educator Jane Swift
Manage episode 502343117 series 3658690
“There are families that have been coming here for five generations, and occasionally all five are here. And that's pretty amazing.”
Our host, Marci Mowery, is joined by Environmental Education Specialist Jane Swift, who shares why World's End State Park has captivated visitors for 93 years in Pennsylvania's Endless Mountains region.
Controversy sparked the park's beginning when geologists in 1932 wanted to name it after the S-shaped whirlpool in Loyalsock Creek, but locals insisted on "World's End." A discovered 1940s map proved them right. Today, this Sullivan County gem offers adventures around every trail curve with seven scenic vistas, some accessible by car for those unable to hike the canyon's 700-foot elevation changes.
Jane, who has been educating visitors since 1998, transforms the park into a living classroom. From maple syrup production using the park's abundant sugar maples to wildflower walks highlighting spring ephemera, she connects generations to nature. Her proudest memory involves hosting Pennsylvania Outdoor Life's TV crew, sharing edible plants and sumac-ade by the creek.
The park's 19 rustic cabins welcome winter guests seeking fireside retreats, while summer brings swimmers to the perpetually refreshing Loyalsock Creek. CCC workers transformed this logged-out landscape in the 1930s, building the infrastructure still enjoyed today. Frank Sattler, a CCC alumnus, even donated a detailed model of camp life displayed in the visitor center.
Families return generation after generation, drawn by poor cell service that forces real connection. The Friends of World's End enhance experiences through volunteer work and the famous Mud Day celebration each June. As Jane notes, this is where "adventure, forest, and creek" create irreplaceable family memories in Pennsylvania's wilderness.
Key Topics:
- Park Name Controversy and Origin (1:21)
- Maple Syrup Production and Pancake Breakfast (5:57)
- Fall Foliage and Seven Park Vistas (12:13)
- Winter Cabin Stays and Activities (14:56)
- CCC History and Park Development (18:23)
- Fossil Exhibits and Ancient Lungfish (21:44)
- Indigenous History and Pioneer Trail (24:11)
- Family Activities and Disconnecting (28:33)
- Friends Group Support and Volunteerism (32:18)
- Annual Mud Day Celebration (33:38)
Resources:
- Worlds End State Park
- Friends of Worlds End State Park
- Friends of Worlds End State Park Facebook
- Loyalsock State Forest
- Endless Mountain Region
- Civilian Conservation Corps
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🎶 Podcast music provided by Evan Mongeau
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