This Quiet Pennsylvania City Is An Underrated Gem For Nature Lovers
State College, to the surprise of nobody, is named after Penn State College, one of the former names of The Pennsylvania State University, which calls this town of about 41,000 residents home. With an economy dominated by the renowned university, it may be easy to overlook the other notable offerings this central part of Pennsylvania has in store.
Resting within an ancient mountain range that runs from the southern to the northern borders of the state, State College is a wonderful destination for nature lovers, with its picturesque landscapes blanketed in forests and hills, its variety of local parks, and other exciting activities that draw both residents and visitors alike into the great outdoors. Come and see why you should visit during any season of the year and learn why this quiet Pennsylvania city is an underrated gem for nature lovers.
Geography of State College
State College lies at the heart of Centre County in the Nittany Valley, a distinct geographical region of Central Pennsylvania that is surrounded by a section of the Appalachian Mountains. The area is defined by its alternating ridges and valleys, creating a visually beautiful, and ecologically important, landscape of rolling hills covered with dense forests. Mount Nittany, an iconic local landmark and the geographic feature from which the university's mascot, the Nittany Lion, gets its name, rises prominently to the east. The top of the mountain provides hikers with panoramic views of the surrounding farmlands, forests, and mountains. Other prominent landforms in the region include Bald Eagle Mountain and the Allegheny Plateau. The region is also crisscrossed by numerous streams, including Spring Creek, which flows through the valley and supports a healthy ecosystem of native trout, amphibians, and other fauna that rely on the vital source of clean water. State College experiences a humid continental climate with four distinct seasons. The landscape transforms throughout the year, from vibrant autumn foliage to lush green summers and snow-filled winters.
Rothrock State Forest
State College is a true gem for nature enthusiasts. A big part of why this is the case is the huge variety of parks and greenspace — either right in town or close by. For example, Rothrock State Forest, perhaps the most notable outdoor destination near State College, spans nearly 97,000 acres of rugged, hilly terrain. Located just minutes from town, it contains dense hardwood forests (making it an amazing spot for leaf peepers in the fall), rocky ridgelines, and pristine mountain streams.
The Shingletown Gap provides one of the most popular access points, with trails leading to a number of scenic overlooks and quiet woodland areas within the park's boundaries. For more hiking options, the Mid State Trail and Tussey Mountain Trail offer challenging routes, both of which will reward you with excellent views of the area, while Rothrock’s extensive network of gravel roads attracts cyclists. Fishing, camping, and hunting are also common activities, and whether exploring the local Alan Seeger Natural Area or climbing to Indian Wells Overlook, Rothrock is a top-tier destination for outdoor adventure within reach of State College.
Tom Tudek Memorial Park
Tom Tudek Memorial Park is a nearly 92-acre green space in State College, offering a mix of recreational facilities and urban natural areas. Its accessibility and variety of activities make it one of the town’s most well-loved parks. The park is popular with locals and visitors for its sports fields, playgrounds, picnic pavilions, and off-leash dog park, while the size of the green space makes for a nice break from the busy city streets around it. Paved and gravel trails wind through open meadows and wooded sections of the park, making it ideal for walking, jogging, and biking without having to travel outside of town. Certain landmarks within Tom Tudek Park, like the Stetsinger Butterfly Garden, also provide a habitat for pollinators and other local wildlife, adding to the park’s ecological value.
Millbrook Marsh Nature Center
Millbrook Marsh Nature Center is a 62-acre wetland preserve on the northeastern edge of State College. It offers an immersive experience in the region’s natural ecosystems for all who visit, young or old. The marsh plays a critical role in local water quality, filtering runoff from the surrounding area. The center features a network of boardwalks and trails that wind through wetlands, streams, and meadows, giving you opportunities to observe native plants, birds, and wildlife. An environmental education facility within this park preserve also hosts programs and workshops focused on conservation and sustainability, making it a popular locale for school field trips. Popular with families, students, and nature lovers alike, Millbrook Marsh is a peaceful retreat not far from town and serves as an important resource for both environmental education and outdoor recreation for the region's residents.
There are, of course, many other things that make State College a hotspot for anyone who loves the great outdoors, whether they're looking to learn more about the area's plants and animals or are looking for an exciting day of physical activity.
The Arboretum at Penn State
The Arboretum at Penn State covers an impressive 370 acres of green space on the main University Park Campus, where cultivated gardens, woodlands, and open meadows can be found. The H.O. Smith Botanic Gardens within the arboretum serves as the centerpiece, featuring fascinating themed plant collections, a pollinator garden, and a children’s interactive area. Walking paths will take you through more seasonal flower displays and native plant landscapes. Moreover, the Hartley Wood section preserves an old-growth forest, while the overlook pavilion offers unobstructed views of nearby Mount Nittany. With educational programs, art installations, and year-round events that the public can take part in, the Arboretum at Penn State is a must-visit natural and cultural landmark in State College.
Tussey Mountain Ski and Recreation Area
Tussey Mountain Ski and Recreation is a year-round destination for fun and adventure outside. In winter, it is one of State Park's most popular local skiing, snowboarding, and snow tubing resorts, with hills suitable for all skill levels. The facility includes a ski school, rental services, and a cozy lodge. During the warmer months, Tussey Mountain transforms into another kind of outdoor recreation area, offering mini-golf, go-karting, and live music events at its sizable amphitheater. The mountain’s hiking and biking trails also lead to scenic views of the surrounding landscapes. Popular annual events, including WingFest and Oktoberfest, make Tussey Mountain a favorite for locals and visitors seeking out a variety of engaging activities to take part in, no matter the weather.
Enjoy the Town of State College Year-Round
Whether you're in the area during fall to witness its picturesque forests, winter for the ski hills, or summer for the abundant hiking, biking, and camping spots, State College is no slouch when it comes to natural beauty and outdoor activity. With its numerous natural landmarks and a clear dedication to maintaining its pristine greenspaces for all, this college town makes for a peaceful escape from big city life, being conveniently located halfway between Pittsburgh and Harrisburg, and about 200 miles west of Philadelphia.
