Mineral Springs

We hiked the Mineral Springs Loop at Raccoon Creek State Park, and it was lovely! An article here explains the history of the Frankfort Mineral Springs Resort which used to be located there.

From the mid-1800s until the end of the Victorian era, the resort was very popular, and featured a 3-story hotel that could accommodate 200 guests. The draw was the mineral-rich water, flowing from a spring and cascading down a small waterfall and thought to have excellent medicinal value.  Doubtless for those wealthy families escaping from the Pittsburgh smog, being there would have tangible health  benefits. Few visible ruins are left, and woods have reclaimed the site almost entirely, but the waterfall still remains. It's a tranquil spot for a walk, just a short distance from the cabins of Raccoon Creek.

Fleabane.

Buttercup.

Star of Bethlehem.

Stonecrop.

False Solomon's seal.

Mayapple.

Mitrewort.

Mitrewort seeds.

The mineral springs waterfall.

Minerals from seeps in the rock walls leave stains.  

Star of Bethehem.

Mysterious ruins from the resort.

Wild lily-of-the-valley.

Wild geranium.

Waterleaf.