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Follow a section of the Standing Stone Trail to experience a beautiful example of the Appalachian Range close to home. The trail stretches a total distance of 85 miles, beginning at Cowans Gap State Park and ending in Alan Seeger Natural Area in Rothrock State Forest. Standing Stone Trail Monsell Trail Parking, Belleville, PA, USA Follow a section of the Standing Stone Trail to experience a beautiful example of the Appalachian Range close to home. The trail stretches a total distance of 85 miles, beginning at Cowans Gap State Park and ending in Alan Seeger Natural Area in Rothrock State Forest. For information about guided outings at this or other locations, visit our Events . About This Destination Follow a section of the Standing Stone Trail to experience a beautiful example of the Appalachian Range close to home. The trail stretches a total distance of 85 miles, beginning at Cowans Gap State Park and ending in Alan Seeger Natural Area in Rothrock State Forest. Beginning near Greenwood Furnace State Park, you can enjoy a vigorous 4.54 mile hike along a portion of the SST. This loop utilizes the Standing Stone Trail (SST), Turkey Trail, Lorence Trail, and Monsell Trail, for a beautiful traverse of the Appalachian Range. Following the loop in either direction, the trails feature rocky pathways and switchbacks, eventually leading to the Stone Valley Vista atop Stone Mountain, and a breathtaking view of Stone Valley's rolling hills and farmlands. Bring your trekking poles! Photo credit: Standing Stone Trail Assoc. 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 Monsell Trail Parking, Belleville, PA, USA Googlemap

Trek along the top of one of our ridges starting at the Jo Hays Vista parking lot and see dueling vistas looking both south and north. Jo Hays Vista Jo Hays Vista, Ferguson Township, PA, USA Trek along the top of one of our ridges starting at the Jo Hays Vista parking lot and see dueling vistas looking both south and north. For information about guided outings at this or other locations, visit our Events . About This Destination Jo Hays Vista is a magnificent, easily accessible view of the Nittany Valley from the Tussey Mountain ridgeline. Situated along PA 26 S just outside of Pine Grove Mills, PA, this popular destination also provides easy access to the Mid State Trail and other vistas to the south and north. Trek along the Mid State Trail to the south, and you'll reach the site of the yearly Tussey Mountain Spring Hawkwatch . Golden Eagles and other raptor species are counted here each February and early March, during their Spring migration! For a different vantage point, park on the 26 N side and take Jackson Trail 0.75 mile north to David’s Vista. This view of Rothrock State Forest offers another opportunity to see what makes our ridge-and-valley topography so memorable. 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 Vista is viewable by car. No existing pathways. One bench provided at vista. Visit On Your Own Jo Hays Vista, Ferguson Township, PA, USA Googlemap

Thompson Woods is a 43-acre parcel of forested land that was preserved by ClearWater Conservancy in 2000. Thompson Woods Thompson Woods Preserve, Walnut Spring Lane, State College, PA, USA Thompson Woods is a 43-acre parcel of forested land that was preserved by ClearWater Conservancy in 2000. For information about guided outings at this or other locations, visit our Events . About This Destination 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. IMPORTANT TRAVEL NOTE: Event traffic for the Ironman competition on Sunday, June 30 will impact travel to Thompson Woods. Please give yourself extra time to reach our event. You must approach Walnut Spring Lane from Easterly Parkway. University Drive is a section of the race course and will remain closed during our events. Traffic crossing University Drive at Easterly Parkway will be controlled to allow race competitors to pass. See Suggested Route See Ironman Road Closures Plan Your Visit This Destination is managed by: College Township For more information about visiting this Destination, visit: College Township 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 Thompson Woods Preserve, Walnut Spring Lane, State College, PA, USA Googlemap

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 500 Mount Nittany Road, Lemont, PA, USA Visit one of Centre County's most famous landmarks to hike along history and see what effort goes into preserving a cultural touchstone. For information about guided outings at this or other locations, visit our Events . About This Destination Visit one of Centre County's most famous landmarks to hike along history and see what effort goes into preserving a cultural touchstone. Guests can climb the mountain to the best view in State College: the recently renovated Mike Lynch Overlook. Upon reaching the mountain’s peak (approx .75 miles), guests can return to the trailhead or continue on the full trail (approx. 4 miles). Front Loop Map (2.66 miles) (ascend Blue Trail, descend White Trail) Ridgetop Loop Map (3.59 miles) (ascend/descend White Trail) Plan Your Visit This Destination is managed by: Mount Nittany Conservancy For more information about visiting this Destination, visit: Mount Nittany Conservancy 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 500 Mount Nittany Road, Lemont, PA, USA Googlemap

The landscape along the Musser Gap Trail is memorable in all four seasons. This area serves as an important groundwater recharge area for the community, as well as vital wildlife habitat. Musser Gap Musser Gap Trail Parking Area, Musser Gap Trail, State College, PA, USA The landscape along the Musser Gap Trail is memorable in all four seasons. This area serves as an important groundwater recharge area for the community, as well as vital wildlife habitat. For information about guided outings at this or other locations, visit our Events . About This Destination The landscape along the Musser Gap Trail is memorable in all four seasons. The 423-acre property was purchased by Clearwater Conservancy and transferred to DCNR Bureau of Forestry in 2007 in order to protect an important groundwater recharge area for the community as well as vital wildlife habitat. Construction of new, more sustainable trails began in 2025 through the work of the Rothrock Trail Alliance . On July 10, 2025, the Rothrock Trail Alliance (RTA) welcomed community members, outdoor recreation enthusiasts, PA DCNR officials, and project supporters to announce the grand opening of the first phase (7.5 miles) of this ambitious trail system expansion in Rothrock State Forest. This event marked a significant milestone for trail users, representing years of vision, dedication, and unwavering support. Phase Two is due to be completed by the end of 2025! GPS link for this destination: Musser Gap Trail Parking Area, Musser Gap Trail, State College, PA 16801 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 Musser Gap Trail Parking Area, Musser Gap Trail, State College, PA, USA Googlemap

Modern Sustainability Practices What are some of the leading innovations in the sustainability movement? Learn about the work going into making central Pennsylvania a better place to call home and reducing our impact on the world. LEARN MORE Inside Adventure Worm Composting Bin Visit these sites to experience this topic: 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 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

Use the Send Us A Note form to contact us, or Join The Adventure to subscribe to our Adventure Guide email list. let's connect Send Us A Note or Join the Adventure! Subscribe to the Adventure Guide eNews and reach out to us with your questions, comments, or suggestions. We look forward to hearing from you. Address ClearWater Conservancy 2555 N. Atherton St. State College, PA 16803 Phone 814-237-0400 Email info@centredoutdoors.org Social send us a note Email your questions, comments, and suggestions via the form below First Name Last Name Email Message Send Thank you for your message!

With 26 miles of scenic shoreline, the park offers a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Prince Gallitzin State Park 966 Marina Rd, Patton, PA, USA With 26 miles of scenic shoreline, the park offers a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. For information about guided outings at this or other locations, visit our Events . About This Destination Experience the natural splendor of Prince Gallitzin State Park, where the forested hills of the Allegheny Plateau cradle the expansive 1,635-acre Glendale Lake. With 26 miles of scenic shoreline, the park offers a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Explore over 33 miles of hiking trails that meander through diverse habitats, providing opportunities for wildlife observation and immersion in nature. See our Events listings for specific trails or parking areas relevant to those events. 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 See Destination website for more information or contact Managing organization. Visit On Your Own 966 Marina Rd, Patton, PA, USA Googlemap

The park includes the first hand-laid dam constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps, which is on the National Register of Historic Places. Raymond B. Winter State Park Raymond B. Winter State Park, Buffalo Road, Mifflinburg, PA, USA The park includes the first hand-laid dam constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps, which is on the National Register of Historic Places. For information about guided outings at this or other locations, visit our Events . About This Destination 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. The trail travels through the Rapid Run Natural Area, the first State Park Natural Area. Natural areas were established for scientific observation, to protect native plant and wildlife communities, and to preserve its beauty for future generations. We'll learn about the park's environmental history, while observing our native plant and wildlife species." 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 See Destination website for more information or contact Managing organization. Visit On Your Own Raymond B. Winter State Park, Buffalo Road, Mifflinburg, PA, USA Googlemap

The 135-acre property includes 55 acres of wetland and showcases a natural area supporting wildlife health while offering unique recreational opportunities for people. This destination also includes a path and fishing platform with ADA-approved access on Bald Eagle Creek. Soaring Eagle Wetland 6543 South Eagle Valley Road, Julian, PA, USA The 135-acre property includes 55 acres of wetland and showcases a natural area supporting wildlife health while offering unique recreational opportunities for people. This destination also includes a path and fishing platform with ADA-approved access on Bald Eagle Creek. For information about guided outings at this or other locations, visit our Events . About This Destination Plan a memorable day of birdwatching, nature walking, fishing, picnicking, or all of the above at an outdoor destination that offers a little bit of everything, for everyone! Located west of State College along Bald Eagle Creek, the conservation story of Soaring Eagle Wetland began in 2002, when 135 acres along Route 220 were preserved as part of a mitigation strategy in the wake of I-99 construction. (At that time, the area was called the Governor Tom Ridge Wetlands Preserve.) Over 20 years later, the success of the WHM Group and the Wildlife for Everyone Foundation is evident in the abundant plant and animal life at this destination. The property now includes mowed grass trails, wildlife viewing areas, and ADA accessible pathways leading to an elevated fishing platform on Bald Eagle Creek. The foundation continues to maintain and improve the wetland as “a fully functioning ecosystem capable of sustaining a habitat to host the return of Pennsylvania's indigenous species”. Soaring Eagle Wetland History , Wildlife for Everyone Foundation. Soaring Eagle Wetland was established and donated to the Wildlife for Everyone Foundation in 2010 and includes property along Bald Eagle Creek, and the Galen and Nancy Dreibelbis Viewing Area near Miles Hollow Road. The 135-acre property includes 55 acres of wetland and showcases a natural area supporting wildlife health while offering unique recreational opportunities for people. Soaring Eagle Wetland details: · 6543 South Eagle Valley Road, Julian, PA 16844 – across the railroad tracks · 2 concrete van-accessible handicap parking spaces, with space for 20 or more additional vehicles · Accessible porta potty · A nearly level, 800-foot, ADA accessible trail leads form the parking lot to a large elevated fishing/ viewing platform at Bald Eagle Creek. This 6-foot-wide trail is made of bricks and composite decking. · The site also includes 5 benches and approximately .8 of a mile of mowed grass trails that form an oval. Dreibelbis Birding Area details: · ½ mile north of Soaring Eagle at intersection with Miles Hollow Road · 2 paved van-accessible handicap parking spaces, with space for about 8 additional vehicles · No rest room facilities · Wood Duck Way trail – a level 620-foot out and back trail surfaced with TSA (trail surface aggregate) leads from the ADA parking spaces. Two benches and 2 covered viewing blinds. · Scout Trail – a level 475-foot ADA accessible trail leads from the Dreibelbis Birding Area sign to an ADA approved elevated viewing platform with a great view of the wetland. This trail continues for another 350 feet, but that part is not covered with TSA. Plan Your Visit This Destination is managed by: Wildlife for Everyone Foundation For more information about visiting this Destination, visit: Wildlife for Everyone Foundation maps Google Maps Location (for Self-guided Outings) Centred Outdoors Outing Map (if available) ADA Accessibility See source: https://www.wildlifeforeveryone.org/ This destination includes a path and fishing platform with ADA-approved access on Bald Eagle Creek. Visit On Your Own 6543 South Eagle Valley Road, Julian, PA, USA Googlemap

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 Road, Port Matilda, PA, USA 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. For information about guided outings at this or other locations, visit our Events . About This Destination 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. Hike along the rolling grassy trails and look for the many signs of life here. A wildflower meadow provides pollinator habitat for bees, moths, insects, and birds. Young forest supports the Golden-winged Warbler, Amercian Woodcock, and Ruffed Grouse. Vernal pools allow for breeding amphibians. Plan Your Visit This Destination is managed by: ClearWater Conservancy For more information about visiting this Destination, visit: ClearWater Conservancy maps Google Maps Location (for Self-guided Outings) Centred Outdoors Outing Map (if available) ADA Accessibility Wide, mowed grass paths. Slight elevation change (33 ft). Visit On Your Own 264 Harness Downs Road, Port Matilda, PA, USA Googlemap

Before you head out for your next adventure, it's important to prepare for weather and safety. Follow the tips below to have a safe, comfortable, and fun outdoor experience in Central PA. PREPARE FOR FUN! Before you head out for your next adventure, it's important to prepare for weather and safety. Follow the tips below to have a safe, comfortable, and fun outdoor experience in Central PA. If you have questions, please email us at info@centredoutdoors.org 1. plan ahead Choose your destination and date. Check the weather and get directions before you leave. Give yourself plenty of time to explore before sunset. Cell service may be limited in some areas, so remember that the map service on your phone may not work everywhere. If bringing your pup, confirm that pets are allowed. Some restroom facilities may be closed depending on the destination. Use the restroom before leaving. 2. consider clothing Wear clothing that is a good fit for your destination and the weather. Comfortable sneakers or hiking shoes or boots are suitable for most sites. Sandals are not recommended. Sun Protection: Wear sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat on your adventure. 3. pack like a pro Bring your own reusable, filled water bottle. On hotter days and longer walks/hikes, bring extra water to stay properly hydrated. Pack a light snack or lunch, especially if taking a longer walk or hike. Carry a charged cell phone for photos and phone calls. Other items to consider: bug spray, first aid kit, walking stick, binoculars, child carrier pack, bags for cleaning up after pets. You are responsible for carrying out everything you carry in with you, including food scraps, wrappers, dog waste, etc. 4. prevent ticks Ticks are most commonly found in grassy, brushy or wooded areas. Use EPA registered repellents designed for direct application to skin to repel insects. Walk in the center of trails Check your clothing and hiking gear for ticks when you come back inside. Be sure to check under the arms, in and around the ears, inside the belly button, back of knees, in an around the hair, between the legs and around the waist. If possible, shower/bathe within 2 hours of your hike or walk. If you see a tick on you, follow CDC guidelines. 4. respect others Whether it’s a fellow hiker, a blooming flower, or a critter beneath your feet, be sure to be considerate of what’s around you. Spending time in nature allows us to experience the abundance of natural resources that exist in our backyard. Let’s leave it that way! Flowers, mushrooms, ferns, and trees love where they live – by not picking them as you’re passing by, others may get the chance to appreciate them as well. When it comes to other hikers on the trail, be mindful of trail etiquette. Yield to those traveling uphill as they climb their way to their destination, and keep an ear out for those looking to pass by. Respecting wildlife can look as easy as a ‘thumbs up’! With an arm extended in front of you, give a thumbs up and close one eye. If you can cover the creature in front of you with your whole thumb, you are a safe enough distance away from it. Learn even more about respecting wildlife and others in the outdoors.