Scotty and Verna Leith originally built this historic establishment and named it Scotty's. The legend states that Scotty visited the Cook Forest area as a child on vacation, and during the Great Depression, traveled east from Cleveland instead of west to look for work. His fond memories and love of the pristine old growth pine forest drew him back to this spot. After a rugged and difficult trek ea
stward, Scotty came to rest in a thick pine grove near this very site. In the middle of the rain soaked night of his arrival, he heard singing off in the distance and went to investigate the mysterious sounds in the dense forest. He fell in love with her instantly, and together they built and operated this amazing establishment until 1977. Their story remains notorious in the forest because of their unconditional love and devotion for each other. Scotty was known to sing her love songs, and Verna was known to drive Scotty to ambitions further than he imagined. Since they retired, Scotty's went though four different owners until the current proprietor purchased the establishment and renamed it, The Knotty Pines. Although many things changed since Scotty and Verna built the restaurant, many things remain the same. The huge stone fireplace still separates the two rooms dividing the bar from the restaurant warming many travelers through out the year, and much of the original design still exists. The aroma of great food greets the newcomers still, and the devotion that Scotty and Verna had for each other and to their customers continues to prevail through the current staff. We invite you to relax and enjoy the wonderful atmosphere that Scotty and Verna created and listen to that devoted love song that still reverberates even during the rain soaked nights in this mystical area, Cook Forest.
