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  • Geologic Formations

    Geologic Formations We have an unusual geologic history in Pennsylvania, our rocks are upside-down! All of our young rocks make up the valley floors while the older formations are what make up the higher ridges. The same ridges that define our region also helped shape the socio-economic development of our communities. Take some time to explore why rocks rock! LEARN MORE Inside Adventure Create a Sediment Jar Visit these sites to experience this topic: Canoe Creek State Park Unplug and unwind at Canoe Creek State Park, where you can immerse yourself in 961-acres of nature, including Canoe Lake where you can swim and fish, wetlands, and mature forests. Canoe Creek State Park 205 Canoe Creek Rd, Hollidaysburg, PA 16648 Poe Paddy Tunnel Take a scenic walk along the Pennsylvania Mid State Trail and through the Poe Paddy Tunnel at Poe Paddy State Park. The trail is welcoming, with wide, flat, even terrain - making this adventure well-suited for people of all ages and fitness levels. Poe Paddy State Park Tunnel Spur Rd., Haines Township, PA Lower Rail Trail Originally a tow path for the Pennsylvania Main Line Canal, the trail has been transformed into a community treasure by the dedication of Rails to Trails of Central Pennsylvania Inc. Lower Rail Trail Lower Trail Williamsburg Station, 11 Juniata St., Williamsburg, PA 16693 Scotia Barrens Walk through the past as we explore an area rich in history and ecological significance. Scotia Barrens Access available via Graysdale Park, Scotia Range Road, and additional access points from Circleville Road. Mount Nittany Visit one of Centre County's most famous landmarks to hike along history and see what effort goes into preserving a cultural touchstone. Mount Nittany Trailhead 500 Mount Nittany Rd, Lemont, PA 16851, USA Spring Creek Canyon The Spring Creek Canyon is a site of tremendous historic significance to Centre County and hosts a fantastic biodiversity. Spring Creek Canyon Trail Fisherman's Paradise, Spring Creek Canyon Trail, Bellefonte, PA, USA

  • Yellow Arrow Trail

    This steep climb features a few switchbacks leading to Indian Lookout, offering expansive views of Spruce Creek. Yellow Arrow Trail To State Forest Picnic Area Road, Spruce Creek, PA, USA This steep climb features a few switchbacks leading to Indian Lookout, offering expansive views of Spruce Creek. For information about guided outings at this or other locations, visit our Events . About This Destination Experience the beauty of the Yellow Arrow Trail in Rothrock State Forest, a premier path for outdoor enthusiasts seeking panoramic vistas. This steep climb features a few switchbacks leading to Indian Lookout, offering expansive views of Spruce Creek, Canoe Mountain, Brush Mountain, and the distant Bald Eagle Mountain. This destination offers a perfect blend of adventure and tranquility, making it an ideal spot for hikers looking for a challenging outing. Plan Your Visit This Destination is managed by: PA Department of Conservation and Natural Resources For more information about visiting this Destination, visit: PA Department of Conservation and Natural Resources maps Google Maps Location (for Self-guided Outings) Centred Outdoors Outing Map (if available) ADA Accessibility Not ADA accessible. See Destination website for more information. Visit On Your Own To State Forest Picnic Area Road, Spruce Creek, PA, USA Googlemap

  • Pennsylvania Trees

    Pennsylvania Trees There are around 200 common species of trees in Pennsylvania, and about two-thirds are natives. LEARN MORE Inside Adventure Live Tree Drawing & Bark Rubbing Visit these sites to experience this topic: Alan Seeger Step back in time through the preserved old-growth trees ranging between 150 and 500 years old and see what Pennsylvania was like during pre-colonial times. Visitors will pass through dense pockets of rhododendron while reveling in the majesty of ancient trees. A perfect place to take a break from the rest of the world, serenity can be found among the trees and streams. Alan Seeger Natural Area Huntingdon, PA 16652 Black Moshannon State Park Guests can utilize any of the park’s multiple trails to adventure along one of the coolest spots in Pennsylvania. Black Moshannon State Park 4216 Beaver Rd, Philipsburg, PA 16866, USA Mount Nittany Visit one of Centre County's most famous landmarks to hike along history and see what effort goes into preserving a cultural touchstone. Mount Nittany Trailhead 500 Mount Nittany Rd, Lemont, PA 16851, USA Rhoneymeade Rhoneymeade, the historic homestead of Grange Fair founder, Leonard Rhone hosts a wide variety of plant species and art. Take an invigorating 2-mile hike around the grounds or a shorter, 0.5 mile walking tour of the gardens around the homestead. No pets permitted. Visit Rhoneymeade's website for hours prior to visiting. Rhoneymeade 177 Rimmey Rd, Centre Hall, PA 16828 The Arboretum at Penn State-Hartley Wood Enjoy a walk through Hartley Wood. The Arboretum at Penn State E Park Ave & Bigler Rd, State College, PA 16803, USA Bald Eagle State Park Get out and explore the biodiversity and interesting trails of Bald Eagle State Park with your field guide and binoculars. Bald Eagle State Park 149 Main Park Rd, Howard, PA 16841, USA Greenwood Furnace State Park Tour historic Greenwood Furnace State Park and learn about the early days of the Pennsylvania iron industry. Greenwood Furnace State Park 15795 Greenwood Rd, Huntingdon, PA 16652, USA Poe Paddy Tunnel Take a scenic walk along the Pennsylvania Mid State Trail and through the Poe Paddy Tunnel at Poe Paddy State Park. The trail is welcoming, with wide, flat, even terrain - making this adventure well-suited for people of all ages and fitness levels. Poe Paddy State Park Tunnel Spur Rd., Haines Township, PA Scotia Barrens Walk through the past as we explore an area rich in history and ecological significance. Scotia Barrens Access available via Graysdale Park, Scotia Range Road, and additional access points from Circleville Road. Barrens to Bald Eagle Wildlife Corridor The Barrens to Bald Eagle Wildlife Corridor was conserved by ClearWater Conservancy in 2010 to create safe passage for wildlife species between Bald Eagle Mountain and the Scotia Barrens. Barrens to Bald Eagle Wildlife Corridor 264 Harness Downs Rd, Port Matilda, PA 16870, USA Millbrook Marsh Nature Center Discover the unique features of the marsh and fen ecosystems along the trails at Millbrook Marsh. Enjoy wildlife viewing underwater, in the air, and all around you on land! From skunk cabbage to red-winged blackbirds Millbrook offers opportunites to expereince what nature has to offer. Millbrook Marsh Nature Center 548 Puddintown Rd, State College, PA 16801 Prince Gallitzin State Park With 26 miles of scenic shoreline, the park offers a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Prince Gallitzin State Park Prince Gallitzin, Muskrat Beach Area #3, Muskrat Beach, Muskrat Beach Rd, Patton, PA 16668 Spring Creek Canyon The Spring Creek Canyon is a site of tremendous historic significance to Centre County and hosts a fantastic biodiversity. Spring Creek Canyon Trail Fisherman's Paradise, Spring Creek Canyon Trail, Bellefonte, PA, USA

  • Big Flat Laurel Natural Area

    The Big Flat Laurel Natural Area hosts numerous vistas for the intrepid explorer, see the sights along this section of the well-maintained Mid State Trail. Big Flat Laurel Natural Area Keith Spring, Jackson Township, PA 16801, USA The Big Flat Laurel Natural Area hosts numerous vistas for the intrepid explorer, see the sights along this section of the well-maintained Mid State Trail. For information about guided outings at this or other locations, visit our Events . About This Destination The Big Flat Laurel Natural Area hosts numerous vistas for the intrepid explorer, see the sights along this section of the well-maintained Mid State Trail. The natural area encompasses 184 acres of forest protecting uniquely extensive stands of mountain laurel, our state flower! Guests can take in the sights by vehicle or park and walk along any number of forested trails. Plan Your Visit This Destination is managed by: PA Department of Conservation and Natural Resources For more information about visiting this Destination, visit: PA Department of Conservation and Natural Resources maps Google Maps Location (for Self-guided Outings) Centred Outdoors Outing Map (if available) ADA Accessibility Not ADA accessible. See Destination website for more information. Visit On Your Own Keith Spring, Jackson Township, PA 16801, USA Googlemap

  • Little Flat

    The Little Flat Fire Tower,  a memorable landmark along the Mid-State Trail, was constructed in the mid-1900's to help spot wildfires in the state forest. Explore a popular 3.6 mile hiking loop in this area, or park near the tower and explore shorter sections of the Mid-State and Old Laurel Run Trails. Little Flat Fire Tower Area Little Flat Fire Tower, Little Flat Tower Road, State College, PA, USA The Little Flat Fire Tower, a memorable landmark along the Mid-State Trail, was constructed in the mid-1900's to help spot wildfires in the state forest. Explore a popular 3.6 mile hiking loop in this area, or park near the tower and explore shorter sections of the Mid-State and Old Laurel Run Trails. For information about guided outings at this or other locations, visit our Events . About This Destination The Little Flat Fire Tower, a memorable landmark along the Mid-State Trail, was constructed in the early-1900's to help spot wildfires in the state forest. Explore a popular 3.6 mile hiking loop in this area, or park near the tower and explore shorter sections of the Mid-State and Old Laurel Run Trails. Depending on the season, blooming mountain laurel, blueberry bushes, fragrant areas of fern, mushrooms, and massive rhododendrons await you in this awe-inspiring area of forest. The base of the tower is a lovely picnic spot the area also boasts a multitude of divergent trails to explore. Address & Parking Info: 🚗 **There is typically a closed gate about a mile from this GPS location Click here for the exact GPS coordinate of the parking lot . Plan Your Visit This Destination is managed by: PA Department of Conservation and Natural Resources For more information about visiting this Destination, visit: PA Department of Conservation and Natural Resources maps Google Maps Location (for Self-guided Outings) Centred Outdoors Outing Map (if available) ADA Accessibility Not ADA accessible. See Destination website for more information. Visit On Your Own Little Flat Fire Tower, Little Flat Tower Road, State College, PA, USA Googlemap

  • Little Juniata Natural Area

    One of six natural areas in Rothrock State Forest, Little Juniata Natural Area in Huntingdon County has earned this special designation in large part because of its unique geology. Little Juniata Natural Area 6205 Mountain Road, Alexandria, PA, USA One of six natural areas in Rothrock State Forest, Little Juniata Natural Area in Huntingdon County has earned this special designation in large part because of its unique geology. For information about guided outings at this or other locations, visit our Events . About This Destination One of six natural areas in Rothrock State Forest, Little Juniata Natural Area in Huntingdon County has earned this special designation in large part because of its unique geology. The Little Juniata River, often referred to as the “Little J,” flows through the natural area. As you explore be sure to admire and appreciate the river’s restored health and beauty made possible by the Clean Water Act of 1972 and countless individuals and organizations committed to protecting a waterway once used for dumping industrial waste. LOCATION NOTE: A shared parking area for both the Little Juniata Natural Area , and the Mid-state Trail (MST) Barree Trailhead , is located at the end of Mountain Road. Continue past all Private Property on Mountain Road until you reach the large gravel parking area. Plan Your Visit This Destination is managed by: PA Department of Conservation and Natural Resources For more information about visiting this Destination, visit: PA Department of Conservation and Natural Resources maps Google Maps Location (for Self-guided Outings) Centred Outdoors Outing Map (if available) ADA Accessibility Not ADA accessible. See Destination website for more information. Visit On Your Own 6205 Mountain Road, Alexandria, PA, USA Parking for both the Little Juniata Natural Area, and the Mid-state Trail (MST) Barree Trailhead, is located at the end of Mountain Road. Continue past all Private Property on Mountain Road until you reach the large gravel parking area. Googlemap

  • Colyer Lake

    Guests can enjoy the lake starting at either the north or south access areas. The 2-mile loop can be broken into many shorter treks while exploring the manmade lake. Colyer Lake Colyer Lake, Potter Township, PA, USA Guests can enjoy the lake starting at either the north or south access areas. The 2-mile loop can be broken into many shorter treks while exploring the manmade lake. For information about guided outings at this or other locations, visit our Events . About This Destination Colyer Lake is a year-round favorite location among boaters, fishing enthusiasts, hikers, cyclists, and even ice skaters. An easy-to-follow trail through the forest encircles the entire lake to reveal beautiful scenes and signs of the biodiversity it supports. Colyer Lake is home to year-round residents, so please drive cautiously and explore courteously during your visit. GPS Link to this location: Colyer Lake, Potter Twp., PA Plan Your Visit This Destination is managed by: PA Fish and Boat Commission For more information about visiting this Destination, visit: PA Fish and Boat Commission maps Google Maps Location (for Self-guided Outings) Centred Outdoors Outing Map (if available) ADA Accessibility Not ADA accessible. See Destination website for more information. Visit On Your Own Colyer Lake, Potter Township, PA, USA Googlemap

  • LEARN & CREATE | Centred Outdoors

    Nature-inspired activities to try at home! Learn about ways to get outdoors, creative crafts using materials from nature, and more. Try these nature-inspired activities for all ages DIY Ice Suncatcher Bird Seed Biscuits Salt Dough Ornaments Natural Dreamcatcher Leaf Prints Paper Floating Ducks Tree Habitat Scavenger Hunt Hiking with a Map Bird Call Eco Friendly Chalk Mural Worm Composting Bin Campfire Cooking Sediment Jar DIY Watershed Recyclable Bottle Turtle Pollinator Homestead Invasive Plant Papermaking DIY Beaver Dam Yoga with Animals Sensory Flowers Painted Rock Bugs DIY Ecosphere Hiking Gear Care Creative Flower Pots DIY Terrarium We'd love to see your projects! SEnd photos to info@centredoutdoors.org

  • Boal Mansion

    Traverse up to three miles of mulched trails at the Boal Estate through habitats ranging from wetlands to upland forest. Boal Mansion 148a Boal Estate Drive, Boalsburg, PA, USA Traverse up to three miles of mulched trails at the Boal Estate through habitats ranging from wetlands to upland forest. For information about guided outings at this or other locations, visit our Events . About This Destination Traverse up to three miles of mulched trails at the Boal Estate through habitats ranging from wetlands to upland forest. The trail system was designed as a large wheel (the outer loop) with radiating interconnecting loops. The trails, built and maintained exclusively by volunteers, are easy to moderate with some slight elevation. There are numerous outdoor educational boards along the various trails, most are a result of Eagle Scout projects. Hikers will observe a wide range of flora as well and more than 1,000 tree shelters from an ongoing program to further diversify species and compensate for the ongoing loss of trees to invasive species and climate change. Main Photo credit: Boal Mansion Museum Plan Your Visit This Destination is managed by: The Columbus Chapel & Boal Mansion Museum For more information about visiting this Destination, visit: The Columbus Chapel & Boal Mansion Museum maps Google Maps Location (for Self-guided Outings) Centred Outdoors Outing Map (if available) ADA Accessibility Not ADA accessible. See Destination website for more information. Visit On Your Own 148a Boal Estate Drive, Boalsburg, PA, USA Googlemap

  • Thousand Steps

    Climb over 1,000 stone steps built in the 1930s by workers to reach the quarry above Jack's Narrows. Thousand Steps Thousand Steps - Standing Stone Trail, William Penn Highway, Mapleton, PA, USA Climb over 1,000 stone steps built in the 1930s by workers to reach the quarry above Jack's Narrows. For information about guided outings at this or other locations, visit our Events . About This Destination 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. Plan Your Visit This Destination is managed by: Standing Stone Trail Club For more information about visiting this Destination, visit: Standing Stone Trail Club maps Google Maps Location (for Self-guided Outings) Centred Outdoors Outing Map (if available) ADA Accessibility Not ADA accessible. See Destination website for more information. Visit On Your Own Thousand Steps - Standing Stone Trail, William Penn Highway, Mapleton, PA, USA Googlemap

  • Public Art

    Public Art Public art unites our community in ways few other physical objects can. Learn about the history of public art throughout central Pennsylvania, where to find pieces that are hidden in plain sight, and how many of these installations came to be. LEARN MORE Inside Adventure Eco-Friendly Chalk Mural Visit these sites to experience this topic: Boal Mansion Traverse up to three miles of mulched trails at the Boal Estate through habitats ranging from wetlands to upland forest. Boal Mansion 148A, Boal Estate Dr, Boalsburg, PA 16827 Talleyrand Park Explore the historic features of Talleyrand Park including the Edible Landscape Garden, the Freight House, the Sculpture Garden, the many bridges crossing Spring Creek and more. Talleyrand Park 320 W High St, Bellefonte, PA 16823, USA Downtown Art Walk From beautiful murals that span entire blocks to small bronze pigs, see all the art throughout downtown. Take an ‘art walk’ to admire the countless sculptures, memorials, and vibrant murals that bring State College to life. Downtown Art Walk 137 E. Beaver Ave. State College, PA 16801 Rhoneymeade Rhoneymeade, the historic homestead of Grange Fair founder, Leonard Rhone hosts a wide variety of plant species and art. Take an invigorating 2-mile hike around the grounds or a shorter, 0.5 mile walking tour of the gardens around the homestead. No pets permitted. Visit Rhoneymeade's website for hours prior to visiting. Rhoneymeade 177 Rimmey Rd, Centre Hall, PA 16828

  • Millbrook Marsh Nature Center

    Discover the unique features of the marsh and fen ecosystems along the trails at Millbrook Marsh. Enjoy wildlife viewing underwater, in the air, and all around you on land! From skunk cabbage to red-winged blackbirds Millbrook offers opportunites to expereince what nature has to offer. Millbrook Marsh Nature Center Millbrook Marsh Nature Center, Puddintown Road, State College, PA, USA Discover the unique features of the marsh and fen ecosystems along the trails at Millbrook Marsh. Enjoy wildlife viewing underwater, in the air, and all around you on land! From skunk cabbage to red-winged blackbirds Millbrook offers opportunites to expereince what nature has to offer. For information about guided outings at this or other locations, visit our Events . About This Destination Plan an adventure along the boardwalk at Millbrook Marsh to discover the unique ecologic and historical features of the marsh and surrounding property. Whether you are a birdwatcher, toddler, student, or retiree - a walk along the boardwalk will offer relaxation and education, as well as an appreciation for the work these wetlands and organizations are doing to protect our region’s waterways and communities today and generations from now. GPS link for this location: 548 Puddintown Rd., State College, PA 16801 Plan Your Visit This Destination is managed by: Centre Region Parks and Recreation For more information about visiting this Destination, visit: Centre Region Parks and Recreation maps Google Maps Location (for Self-guided Outings) Centred Outdoors Outing Map (if available) ADA Accessibility See Destination website for more information or contact Managing organization. Visit On Your Own Millbrook Marsh Nature Center, Puddintown Road, State College, PA, USA Googlemap

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