The Top 5 Hiking Trails and Craft Brewery Pairings Near State College
Nestled near the geographic center of Pennsylvania, Happy Valley offers abundant outdoor recreation, top-tier education at Pennsylvania State University, diverse employment opportunities, vibrant arts, entertainment, and exceptional local cuisine and craft beverages. Penn State's University Park campus in downtown State College hosts 46,800 graduate and undergraduate students. The nickname "Happy Valley" originated during the Great Depression, when the region's economy thrived thanks to the university and its supporting industries.
Happy Valley boasts numerous state parks and recreational areas. After a invigorating trail run or mountain bike ride in spots like Rothrock State Forest or Black Moshannon State Park (affectionately called "Black Mo"), unwind with a refreshing craft beer at one of the area's premier breweries. Discover these five unbeatable trail and brewery pairings to maximize your adventure.
Black Moshannon State Park: Allegheny Front Trail | Otto’s Pub & Brewery
Black Moshannon State Park, a 3,500-acre wooded paradise 30 miles northwest of State College, surrounds Black Moshannon Lake and features a unique bog habitat teeming with wildlife and diverse plants. The 42-mile Allegheny Front Trail (AFT), now blazed yellow, winds through dense forests, open grasslands, and streams. Popular for trail running, backpacking, day hiking, and winter cross-country skiing, it offers offshoot paths for customized adventures. Trails can be wet year-round, so opt for waterproof footwear and carry plenty of water.
After your hike, refuel at Otto’s Pub & Brewery on North Atherton Street. A local favorite that has expanded due to its popularity, it offers ample parking (though busy on game weekends), outdoor seating, and standout brews like the author's pick, Double D.
Mount Nittany: Mike Lynch Vista | Happy Valley Brewing Company
In Happy Valley, "Nittany" is everywhere—from the Nittany Lion to Mount Nittany. Derived from the Algonquian word Nit-A-Nee, meaning "single mountain," Mount Nittany overlooks Happy Valley and separates it from Penns Valley. Accessible from Lemont, it's ideal for day hikes and trail running.
Choose the direct half-mile trail, which climbs 650 feet via well-maintained switchbacks, or a longer route. Summit vistas reveal sweeping views of Happy Valley. Connect trails for shaded singletrack running.
Just 1.5 miles from the trailhead, Happy Valley Brewing Company occupies a restored 1800s barn from Klinger Farms. Savor unique, locally sourced dishes like cheese samplers, sandwiches, burgers, and pizzas, paired with seasonal brews such as stouts, session IPAs, or the LeMonster imperial IPA.
Rothrock State Forest: Tussey Ridge Trail | Home D Pizzeria / Robin Hood Brewing
Rothrock State Forest is Centre County's ultimate playground, with miles of wooded trails, steep and rolling hills, and fire road access for trail running and mountain biking. Colyer Lake offers kayaking and a new singletrack loop. A top route starts at Galbraith Gap near Tussey Ski Resort, ascends Bear Meadows Road to Camp Trail and Tussey Ridge, featuring stunning valley views and challenging rock gardens. Loop back via Lonberger Trail or shortcuts.
En route back to town, stop at Home D Pizzeria for Robin Hood Brewing's on-site beers (primary brewery in Bellefonte). Their extensive menu and expert staff ensure perfect food and beer pairings.
Poe Valley & Poe Paddy State Parks: Mid State Trail (Thorpe Trail Section) | Elk Creek Cafe & Aleworks
Poe Valley State Park (620 acres) lies within the vast Bald Eagle State Forest, surrounding 25-acre Poe Lake with picnic areas, a beach, playground, boat rentals, snacks, and restrooms. Poe Paddy is 4 miles east. Note: Roads are gravel—leave luxury cars at home. The Mid State Trail along the ridge offers rocky challenges; access via Hunter’s Path. Pick up a map at the ranger station.
Cap your day at Elk Creek Cafe & Aleworks in Millheim (open since 2007), known for live music, fresh local fare, and cozy vibes. Try the Hairy John IPA alongside appetizers, salads, or entrees.
Bald Eagle State Park: Lakeside Trail | Good Intent Cider
Thirty minutes northeast of State College, Bald Eagle State Park features a 1,730-acre lake beneath Bald Eagle Mountain. Beyond camping, boating, fishing, and swimming, explore 15 miles of trails across 5,900 acres. The 4.4-mile Lakeside Trail starts at the boat launch, passing a primitive campground and looping through oak-maple-hickory forests with lake views. Spot historic charcoal hearths from the 1800s.
For a twist, visit Good Intent Cider in Bellefonte. Sample Adam’s Apple (semi-dry), Good Charmât (sparkling with vanilla, berry, and grape notes), or The Ginger Kid (cider with ginger and maple).
Written by Joshua Brock for RootsRated Media in partnership with Visit Penn State.
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