The use of the Berea College Forest for recreation predates the existence of the Forest as a managed College property. Since at least the 1870s, Bereans have been hiking the Pinnacles, enjoying the views, and finding rest and recuperation in nature on this land. Recreation is a fundamental way Bereans connect with the Forest.

Students and staff in the Department of Forestry maintain 17 miles of hiking trails that are visited over 100,000 times annually. On Mountain Day, staff and students gather at the Pinnacles to celebrate nature together.