The 8 Best Hiking Trails Near State College, PA: Explore Happy Valley
Nestled in Central Pennsylvania's Happy Valley between Pittsburgh and Philadelphia, State College is a vibrant college town and home to Penn State University, serving over 42,000 students. Backed by the Appalachian Mountains, it offers abundant outdoor adventures for all levels.
The 'Happy Valley' name likely emerged during the Great Depression, as the region's resilience—bolstered by the university—brought prosperity amid hardship. Today, this dynamic community fully embodies its joyful moniker.
From summit climbs and creekside strolls to vibrant fall foliage displays, Happy Valley delivers exceptional hiking experiences in Central Pennsylvania.
Alan Seeger Natural Area, Rothrock State Forest
Featuring one of Pennsylvania's rare old-growth forests, this Rothrock State Forest gem is perfect for families. The easy 0.8-mile loop trail circles clockwise along Standing Stone Creek, crossing footbridges amid young maples and oaks, through towering 20-foot rhododendron tunnels, back to the trailhead.
- Hiking Difficulty: Easy
- More Info: Rothrock State Forest
- Location: https://goo.gl/maps/ng4XeiqUtZ3yKKXL7
- Phone: 814-667-1800
Mount Nittany
Mount Nittany is Happy Valley's iconic hike, drawing Penn State students and alumni for stunning campus vistas, especially at sunset. Follow the well-signed 3.5-mile White Trail to the famed Mike Lynch Overlook, revealing landmarks like Beaver Stadium, which seats over 100,000 fans.
- Hiking Difficulty: Intermediate
- More Information: Mount Nittany Conservancy
- Location: https://goo.gl/maps/HqkMS16e7tRDiexcA
- Conservancy Location: https://goo.gl/maps/vt3HFih5uj6GKbdM8
- Conservancy Phone: 814-237-0400
- Conservancy Fax: 814-237-4909
Shingletown Gap, Rothrock State Forest
Just 10 minutes from downtown State College, Shingletown Gap offers a quick escape into serene Rothrock State Forest. Opt for easy creekside paths along rhododendron-lined Roaring Run or tackle the challenging 3.8-mile ascent up Tussey Mountain to panoramic views at the Roman Tower.
- Hiking Difficulty: Easy to Hard
- More Information: Rothrock State Forest
- Location: https://goo.gl/maps/XhDPSsSTwPrsqzo3A
- Website: PA Hikes
Indian Wells Vista, Mid State Trail
Spanning 323 miles as Pennsylvania's wildest trail, the Mid State Trail threads through State College, state parks, and natural areas—including its only tunnel near Poe Paddy State Park. Start here, the trail's birthplace, marked by a monument to founder Dr. Thomas Thwaites. For rewarding views, hike 1.4 miles along the ridgeline from Little Flat to Big Flat, reaching Indian Wells Vista overlooking Bear Meadows bog amid fall colors.
- Hiking Difficulty: Easy
Jackson Trail, Mid State Trail
The initial stretch to David's Vista suits families, but rocky terrain soon earns Pennsylvania's 'Rocksylvania' nickname. For avid hikers, conquer the 3-mile one-way scramble to Tussey Mountain's scree-covered ridgetop. With views up to 30 miles and fewer crowds, wear sturdy boots for this thrilling challenge.
- Hiking Difficulty: Easy to Hard
Bear Meadows Natural Area, Rothrock State Forest
Four miles south of Boalsburg in Rothrock State Forest, Bear Meadows shines with its summer blueberry-filled bog—attracting black bears. From the Bear Meadows Road parking, follow the 3.7-mile loop through rhododendrons, pines, and open wetlands. Flat and well-marked, it's ideal for beginners and winter hikes.
- Hiking Difficulty: Easy
Moss Hanne Trail, Black Moshannon State Park
This 8-mile Black Moshannon State Park trail showcases diverse ecosystems: pine plantations, hemlocks, spruce, hardwoods, meadows, blueberry patches, ponds, and swamps via boardwalks. Expect wet spots—waterproof boots advised. Minimal elevation makes it great for cross-country skiing too.
- Hiking Difficulty: Moderate
Donut Hole Trail, Sproul State Forest
For hardcore adventurers, the 90-mile Donut Hole Trail in Sproul State Forest traces the West Branch Susquehanna River from near PA Routes 120/872 to Farrandsville. Remote with stream crossings (avoid Kettle Creek in high water), it's suited for experienced backpackers; day hikers can tackle sections.
- Hiking Difficulty: Hard
Written by Jenny Willden for RootsRated in partnership with The Happy Valley Adventure Bureau.
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