Learn more with this project!
Travel Kit: Pencils and colored pencils, eraser, paper, sketchbook
Your Destination: Create an art project for a Pennsylvania park or about a historic site.
On the Path: Pennsylvania parks stand out from those in other states because of their unique mix of natural diversity, deep historical significance, and accessibility. Few states offer such a variety of landscapes—from rolling Appalachian Mountains and dense hardwood forests to limestone caves and serene lakes—all within a few hours’ drive. Many PA parks are also located on or near sites of major historical events, like the Civil War or early American industry, blending outdoor recreation with educational experiences. Plus, the Pennsylvania has prioritized keeping its parks free to enter, which is not the case everywhere.
Parks in Pennsylvania also are special because they offer a rich blend of natural beauty, history, and recreation. From the scenic trails of the Pocono Mountains to the historic battlefields of Gettysburg, these spaces provide both relaxation and a connection to the state’s heritage. They also play a crucial role in protecting wildlife habitats and offering residents and visitors a place to hike, camp, fish, and enjoy the outdoors year-round.
On the Path: Visit a location and make a landscape drawing inspired by nature. Or virtually explore Gettysburg National Military Park battlefield sites, including Little Round Top and Cemetery Ridge, with historical context.
Step 1: Consider foreground (close up objects: part of fencing or branch), middle ground (rivers, fields and buildings) and background (distant mountains, hills or sky).
Step 2: Add different textures and patterns to represent trees, rocks, water, grass, gravel, or flowers.
Step 3: Add color, details and shadows.
Group Tour: Your work can be displayed along with a photo of the trail or possibly at the visitor center for everyone to enjoy.
Extend the Journey: Share your projects at #ArtSphereInc to inspire people to enjoy what is special about more PA. parks.
Explain orally or in writing why making art is a fun way to explore the outdoors, express yourself, and help others appreciate parks too.
Vocabulary: foreground, middle ground and background
Resources and Visual Aids:
- Appalachian Trail: In Pennsylvania, the trail stretches for about 229 miles, winding through rocky terrain, scenic ridges, and historic woodlands and can be accessed through Hawk Mountain Sanctuary.
- Brandywine Battlefield: (Chadds Ford) A historic site where the 1777 Battle of Brandywine was fought, offering guided tours and a museum.
- Cherry Springs State Park: (Potter County) A premier destination for stargazing, offering a 360-degree view of the night sky. It’s recognized as a Dark Sky Park, making it ideal for astronomers and night sky enthusiasts.
- Cornwall Iron Furnace: (Cornwall) A preserved 18th-century iron furnace that played a significant role in the industrial revolution in Pennsylvania.
- Curtin Village at Eagle Ironworks Historical Site: (Howard) A historic ironworks site where visitors can explore a preserved village and learn about the industry’s impact.
- Delaware Canal State Park: Stretching 60 miles along the Delaware River, this park preserves the historic 19th-century canal. Visitors can walk, bike, or cross-country ski along the towpath, experiencing the canal’s historical significance.
- Graeme Park: (Horsham) A historic site with a preserved mansion and grounds that showcase 18th-century life in Pennsylvania.
- Eckley Miners’ Village: (Weatherly) A preserved coal mining town that illustrates life in a Pennsylvania mining community during the 19th century.
- Ephrata Cloister: (Ephrata) A historic religious site, once home to the Ephrata community, offering tours of its buildings and exhibits.
- French Azilum: (Titusville) A historic site that once housed French refugees during the French Revolution, featuring a museum and restored buildings.
- Kinzua Bridge State Park: Located in McKean County, this park is home to the Kinzua Bridge, once the world’s tallest and longest railroad bridge. After being partially destroyed by a tornado, the remaining structure serves as a pedestrian walkway with breathtaking views of the Kinzua Gorge.
- Nockamixon State Park: (Bucks County) This 5,286-acre park features the 1,450-acre Lake Nockamixon. Visitors can enjoy boating, fishing, hiking, biking, picnicking, and disc golfing.
- Ralph Stover State Park: (Eastern Bucks County) This 45-acre park is renowned for its High Rocks Trail, which provides stunning views of the Tohickon Creek Gorge. It’s also one of only three state parks in Pennsylvania that allow rock climbing.
- Ricketts Glen State Park: (Northeastern PA) Celebrated for its 22 named waterfalls along the Falls Trail. The park’s diverse ecosystems support a wide variety of bird species, making it a haven for birdwatchers.
- Ridley Creek State Park: (Delaware County) A scenic 2,600-acre park featuring wooded trails, picnic areas, and a historic mansion for outdoor recreation and relaxation.
- Scranton Iron Furnaces: (Scranton) A historic site that preserves the remains of the iron furnaces that powered the industrial revolution in Scranton.
- Tyler Arboretum: (Media) This 650-acre arboretum features historic buildings, ancient trees, extensive hiking trails, and a variety of plant collections.
- Tyler State Park: (Newtown and Northampton Townships, Bucks County) A day-use park on 1,711 acres, offering trails, fishing, and picnic areas.
- Washington Crossing Historic Park: (Washington Crossing) A historic park where George Washington crossed the Delaware River during the American Revolution, featuring exhibits and reenactments.