The Majestic Elk

Looking for something to do?  Join the thousands of visitors who will soon begin trolling around Elk County, more specifically, Benezette, “The Elk Capital of Pennsylvania” looking for a bull elk and his harem.

September and October mark the beginning of the mating season for elk. What an incredible experience it is to witness the elk mating ritual.  The bull, massive and quite regal, invites his harem of 15 to 20 female elk (aka cows) to begin breeding – not by singing a romantic love song, but by making an unmistakable ‘bugle’ sound that begins as a low bellow and crescendos to a kind of squealing or loud whistle. This is followed by several grunts. The cows are receptive to breeding and remain in their harem for the duration of the breeding season (I assume they don’t suffer from jealousy?) The bull elk however, has earned his dominance by fighting off lesser bulls for the opportunity to breed with the cows and if you’re lucky, you may even witness a sparring match between two bulls as they lock their massive antlers and fight for leadership. 

The best time to view the elk is an hour or two after dawn or before dusk.  Saturdays and Sundays are quite busy so I’d recommend choosing a week day if possible.  The Winslow Hill Viewing Area is a perfect spot for viewing the elk.  It has ample parking and a walk-up viewing area overlooking a large meadow where elk are often found.  I’d also recommend bringing a pair of binoculars and of course, a camera.  :)

Address: 

Winslow Hill Road, Benezette, PA 15821