6 Reasons State College (Happy Valley) is a Premier Cycling Destination
Central Pennsylvania's State College—affectionately known as Happy Valley—is famous as the home of Penn State University. Yet, beyond the Nittany Lions, this vibrant area stands out as a world-class cycling hub, offering everything from wooded singletrack trails to smooth road routes. Cycling is deeply embraced throughout State College and the surrounding Centre Region, providing endless opportunities for exploration on two wheels. Enjoy leisurely rides across the iconic university campus, century loops through picturesque countryside, and adventures in expansive state forests. Discover six compelling reasons why Happy Valley is a top destination for cyclists of all levels.
A Bike-Friendly Community
State College earns Bronze-level recognition from the League of American Bicyclists as a Bicycle Friendly Community. Its extensive network of off-road trails and well-marked bike lanes makes nearly all of Happy Valley accessible by bike. Cyclists can avoid traffic and park effortlessly almost anywhere. The town's cycling infrastructure even includes tool-equipped repair stations along popular routes. These bikeways aren't just for commuters—they offer boundless recreational options, featuring paved, traffic-free paths right in town.
A Thriving Cycling Culture
Happy Valley's passion for cycling has fostered bike-focused businesses and active clubs for road and mountain bikers of every skill level. The State College Cycling Club organizes weekly rides, from endurance circuits to relaxed 'slow and easy' Thursday evenings. The Nittany Mountain Bike Association provides off-road resources, including local maps and near-daily group rides from Rothrock State Forest's Galbraith Gap.
This adventurous spirit also inspired Purple Lizard Maps, detailed guides by Penn State-affiliated cartographers and outdoor experts. These maps highlight prime spots in Rothrock, Bald Eagle, and Black Moshannon State Forests.
Local bike shops abound to support riders. The Bicycle Shop, a fixture since 1946, offers bikes, repairs, tune-ups, and weekly group rides. Nearby, Freeze Thaw Cycles—founded by savvy Penn State students—specializes in new and refurbished bikes.
Road cyclists revel in endless countryside routes, from century rides to quick morning spins through rolling pastures, state forests, and charming stops. Favorites include the 20-mile Scotia Loop via the Barrens (State Game Lands #176), a key habitat for ruffed grouse.
The nonprofit Centre Bike advocates for cycling and shares routes for visitors, like the 101-mile RB Winter Century—the 'ultimate Penn Valley Century.' Near the 90-mile mark in Potters Mills, Homan’s General Store delights with sandwiches, ice cream, drinks, trail guides, and picnic spots.
Expansive Forested Trails
Singletrack abounds in surrounding state forests like Rothrock, Bald Eagle, and Moshannon, with roads open to cyclists too. In Rothrock State Forest, just 15 miles from town, Bear Meadows Road connects Galbraith Gap to Alan Seeger Picnic Area, highlighting the scenic Bear Meadows Natural Area within its 96,975 acres. Nearby, Scotia Range Road explores the Barrens.
For an in-town tree-canopied ride, try the Bellefonte Central Rail Trail at The Arboretum at Penn State. This gravel path winds through diverse habitats—from woodlands to prairies—and connects easily via the McKee Street-Clinton Avenue Bike Path from Sunset Park.
Post-Ride Indulgences
Happy Valley rewards riders with prime recovery spots. The Penn State Berkey Creamery is legendary for flavors like bittersweet mint and butter pecan, with half-gallons available to go.
For hearty meals and drinks, historic Duffy’s Tavern in Boalsburg offers casual or upscale dining, including top-rated chicken wings. Craft beer fans head to Home D Pizzeria & Robin Hood Brewing Company for seasonals like F. Tuck Porter and Raspberry Wheat.
Rothrock Coffee, born from trail riders' needs, fuels adventures with pour-over brews and nitro cold brew specialties.
Written by Malee Baker Oot for RootsRated Media in partnership with Visit Penn State.
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Penn State was just the beginning. Delightful towns, thrilling attractions, and rolling natural splendor abound here in Happy Valley. A wealth of adventure for the whole family, only found here.
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