outings by date & TIME

If you're just starting to explore Rothrock State Forest, the Tussey Mountain Trail should be on your list! This trail is well-maintained by the various groups that feature it as part of local mountain bike or running events. This "shared-use trail" allows for hiking, biking, or equestrian adventures, with moderate elevation change and some rocky sections.

Climb from the creekside at Galbraith Gap to the top of Little Flat on the challenging Spruce Gap trail. Follow the beautiful stone of Lonberger Path before turning towards Three Bridges Trail. The Spruce Gap ascent is an example of a fall line trail, which presents challenges due to erosion and steep terrain, straight up the mountainside. Reaching the Mid State Trail at the top, turn right to see the Little Flat Fire Tower and descend via Old Laurel Run.

High above the old-growth trees of Alan Seeger Natural Area, on top of Broad Mountain, stands the Greenwood Fire Tower. At 2,376 ft, this point marks the highest spot along the Standing Stone Trail. This section is known as the Greenwood Spur, marking the most northern portion of the SST. The hike from Alan Seeger to the top of Broad Mountain is short, but very steep, so be ready for a climb!

This easily accessible trail begins from the parking area along Route 26 North, across from Jo Hays Vista. Bring your trekking poles - this trail shows why people refer to Rothrock State Forest as "Rocksylvania"! Sturdy hiking shoes will help as you step along large and small rocks and make your way to David's Vista and enjoy views from the Tussey Mountain ridgeline. Jackson Trail intersects with the Mid State Trail and can loop you back to the parking area.

Lower Trail meets Shingletown Gap trail at Laurel Run Road. The Shingletown Gap area is a popular hiking destination in summer due to the cooling rush of Roaring Run descending from the mountain, stone walls along the creekside, and tunnels of rhodedendron. This approximately 5 mile loop includes varying terrain including rocky sections that can be slick when wet. Abundant wildlife is present at any time of year.

Built in the 1930s by workers who needed a safer way to reach the quarry above Jack's Narrows, the Thousand Steps trail is a steep climb through history. Numbers painted on a few steps help motivate climbers as they ascend to 1,000 (plus 37 more!). This trail is part of the 80-mile Standing Stone Trail. Grab a sturdy walking stick, which will help on your climb and during your descent.

Go on an adventure in one of Central Pennsylvania's hidden gems, Whipple Dam. This 256-acre park is a quiet retreat that offers ample opportunities to view wildlife, go for a swim, or listen to live music! Explore the trail that loops around the lake and nearby forest, then afterwards rent a boat or bring your kayak to explore the lake.

Raymond B. Winter State Park sits in a sandstone basin, supporting the spring-fed Halfway Lake and a variety of recreation opportunities. Many shorter, hiking-only trails pass near the lake, or find a view along the Overlook Trail. Located within Bald Eagle State Forest, the park includes the first hand-laid dam constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps, which is on the National Register of Historic Places.

Find yourself in awe of the exposed sandstone and forested paths of Bilger's rocks. Explore all day as you hike along 300 million year old rock beds, featuring passageways and outcroppings perfect for climbing. The park offers tours, special events, campgrounds and more.

Thompson Woods is a 43-acre parcel of forested land that was preserved by ClearWater Conservancy in 2000. Covering parts of State College Borough and College Township, the property is used for passive recreation, and its paths provide a convenient route for walkers between PSU Campus and residential areas. Improvements being planned for the area include new signage, trail maintenance, and forest management.