In early May of 2018 Cook Forest lost several of its stately champion trees due to two microburst events of very high intensity winds within two weeks of each other.  This one-two punch took down both the Seneca Pine (state champ white pine) and Longfellow Pine (tallest known tree north of the Smokies), as well as many other magnificent big, old, and tall trees.  Even though we hate to see these trees come down, they are now prized as nurse logs where they are busy providing elements for nutrient cycling, wildlife habitat, and water retention.  Cook Forest is still home to many other big & tall tree records, such as the state champion Davies Black Cherry.  Please meet at the Log Cabin Inn Environmental Learning Classroom to join us for a vigorous off-trail hike to visit these hulking remnants and view living champion trees which are still the jewel of Cook Forest.